The last two weeks have been a complete joy to witness as all of our wonderful students here at Clare have made this session so memorable. This group in particular have shown great agency and independence as they have loved experiencing this intellectually historic city, however they have always remained dedicated to their programmes.
Classes at Clare have been enthusiastic and despite being on their summer holidays this group of students have shown a real thirst for knowledge and diligence. In their classes, they have always worked in collaborative ways and their creative approach to challenges has meant they always strive to look outside the box. Students on our Introduction to Medicine have shown their artistic skills in classes when tasked to recreate the human anatomy out of plasticine and straws – showing scientific studies need not take a linear approach to learning. Those on our Business Challenge as part of our New Perspectives programme have shown entrepreneurial skills, testing the market in Cambridge using their own handmade apps! Overall the group have worked incredibly hard and their graduation ceremonies were a fiting reward for the past two weeks.
Students have been offered more dynamic opportunities to develop their knowledge in our Masterclasses which have struck a lasting chord with everyone here. In particular, the CSI Crash Course was a popular addition. Those who took part were encouraged to unpick the mystery of the day – acting as detectives throughout the afternoon. There was also the chance for making fan powered cars as well as two fantastic guest talks from Mervyn Mensah and Sarah Wilson both of which were dedicated to helping to motivate young people.
Outside the classroom, students have blossomed as young individuals, forming enduring friendships and making their mark on campus. It has been great to see how everyone has interacted with one another throughout the duration of their stay. It is a testament to ORA’s motto, ‘learn to travel, travel to learn,’ that so many students will leave with a broadened understanding of their subject, as well as of other cultures.
In Cambridge, students at Clare have benefitted from the expertise of our knowledgeable staff and experienced this historic city in walking tours as well as by boat! Further afield, the group have explored the UK’s capital with an informative trip to Parliament and the National Gallery. This presented a great opportunity for the group to get some cultural enlightenment during their stay.
Graduation was a great way to bring this session to an end. The ceremony itself was an emotional affair and everyone received their scrolls with a great amount of gratitude. The three course meal and party that followed were an apt reward for two weeks of hard work – well done to everyone for their commitment to their programmes!
We express our deepest gratitude to every member of staff who made the last weeks at Clare so impressive, but we would also like to thank all of our students who have brightened up the city of Cambridge with their sunny demeanours and impressive focus – goodbye Clare!