Every summer, Reach Cambridge brings together students from around the world for a summer of academic challenge, cultural exploration, and lifelong friendships. One of our 2025 students, Zlata, shares her experience, capturing exactly what makes Reach Cambridge so special:
“When I first got to Cambridge, everything was different from what I was used to. Back home, our architecture, operating hours, and even how people treat each other are different.
Before I actually went on the program, I assumed that my course (the medical course) would mostly cover topics I already knew, but it was the complete opposite, which impressed me a lot. I liked that it was challenging yet still enjoyable and that what we covered would actually be really useful to me in the future. As an example, we learned a lot of anatomy, which is really important for medical school, but we also learned things like how to examine a patient in a way that a real doctor should. We covered the questions you have to ask before, during, and after an examination, and also how to diagnose a patient, and even practiced doing so with scenarios.
What I enjoyed the most about my course was that we got to do a lot of things hands-on. It was really educational and gave me a better idea of what I might have to do in the future. Like closing up bruises with orthopedic needles. I really enjoyed the process. Our teacher in the medical course, Pedro, was amazing, and his explanations were really clear.
Aside from that, what I loved was how we had so many fun activities to do. We did pottery and tie-dye, had movie sessions, painted, and even had a talent show. You could choose to have free time, but honestly the activities we were offered were so fun that my friends and I preferred spending our time doing them rather than simply hanging out.
I think it’s also very important to mention the graduation party. It’s the most fun I’ve had in a while. A lot of us had our own friend groups, but the party made it feel like we were all just a single group of friends having the times of our lives. We did Just Dance and tarot, played cards, and sang. The party itself was just incredibly special to me; it had its own kind of atmosphere that I really miss. But I guess it wouldn’t have been as incredible if it weren’t for the people in it.
Both the students and the staff were so kind and understanding throughout the entire program. When it was time for our first tour around Cambridge after our arrival, when all of us were meeting for the very first time, before we even got to say anything, we greeted each other with a smile. The reason why it’s pretty significant to me is because where I’m from it’s pretty unusual when a stranger smiles at you, even with the intention of becoming your friend. And I loved that, because it made everything just feel so much more accepting. Honestly speaking, it made me rethink a lot of things in my approach of communicating with people, even if back home it may seem somewhat different.
The overall experience I had at Reach Cambridge was nothing short of incredible. Everything they said in reviews about it being one of the best summers in their lives was true for me, and thanks to the people there. I’ve met so many great people whom I intend to meet with in the future once more. It’s true what they say: the people you meet at camp are some of the best friends you’re going to make.”
Feel inspired to join us? Secure your spot today for another summer of learning, adventure, and lifelong memories! For more insights into the summer experience, check out our daily blog updates here.
