York College students shadow Cambridge University undergraduates (From York Press)

York College students shadow Cambridge University undergraduates

8:57am Thursday 9th February 2012 in News

TWO YORK College students have been finding out what life is like at Cambridge University by shadowing undergraduates.

Bethany Crisp, 17, and Jade Cuttle, 16, have taken part in a Students’ Union Shadowing Scheme, aimed at giving people from non-university backgrounds the chance to experience life at a top university.

Bethany, from the Boroughbridge Road area of York, who is interested in studying history at university, attended lectures and tutorials while living in Queen’s College.

She said: “I was worried about the stereotype – that all students would be posh and moody – but it’s been so welcoming.

“I’ve loved the diversity here. You wouldn’t get the same inspiration from an open day.”

Jade, of Osgodby, near Selby, who hopes to study French, teamed up with a Pembroke College student, attended lectures, supervisions, and social events.

“I was surprised at how friendly everyone was,” she said. “My time has been really inspirational.”

Taz Rasul, a scheme organiser, said there were many misconceptions about universities like Cambridge.

“The shadowing scheme is designed to give them a chance to try out Cambridge life for themselves, so they can make an informed decision about their future.”

For details of the shadowing scheme, visit cusu.cam.ac.uk/campaigns/access