Why did you apply for the programme?
I heard about the UK Summer Schools programme at college and I knew it was something I was interested in. I applied to be on the history strand and, though I love learning about modern history especially, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to study it in higher education. Although the academic sessions on historical studies really interested me because the work was all very interactive, practical and creative, it helped me realise that I don’t want to continue history in university.
Did you have any worries before attending?
It was natural for me to be a little nervous about meeting new people and taking part in social activities, but my main concern was not enjoying myself. The social aspect ended up being a highlight of mine. The activities on the first day allowed me to make friends that made the events even more enjoyable. Drumming, dancing and riding unicycles on the first day turned out to be a great icebreaker. The idea of ‘forced fun’ to me feels like no fun at all, but that isn’t how the activities felt. Instead, it was a relaxed atmosphere where nobody would force you to do anything you didn’t want to do. On the last night of the Summer School, I wasn’t the only one crying and sad to leave all the lovely people I had met. That’s the sad thing about meeting such amazing people that live the other side of the country. Luckily, I have the Summer School reunion to be excited for! I loved the university I attended, and thanks to the programme, I will definitely apply to study there next year.
What would you say to someone who is unsure about applying?
All the advice about pushing yourself is very true, but if you’re worried you are never forced to participate in anything you don’t want to when you’re at the summer school, so you have nothing to lose by going.