Each summer, students from around the world arrive in Cambridge ready to learn something new, meet new people, and experience life in one of the most inspiring university cities in the world. Over the course of the Reach Cambridge program, they study subjects they are passionate about, explore the UK, and quickly become part of an international community.
For many students, those few weeks in Cambridge become something much bigger than a summer course. They can shape future study plans, inspire new ambitions, and lead to friendships that last long after the program ends.
Many of our alumni stay in touch to share where their journeys have taken them next. Their stories show how a summer in Cambridge can open doors, build confidence, and sometimes even influence the path a student chooses to follow.
If you are considering joining us, you can explore the subjects available on the Reach Cambridge summer program.
Academic Discovery: Deepening Interests
For some students, Reach Cambridge helps confirm an interest they already have. For others, it offers the chance to explore a subject in more depth and see where it might lead.
Sabine joined the Biotechnology course in 2022 after developing an interest in biochemistry and pharmacy while still at school. Looking back, she remembers how much she enjoyed both the academic side of the program and the opportunity to meet students from around the world.
“I had a great time. Not only was I able to deepen my knowledge on Biotechnology, but I was also able to get to know people from all over the world in a way that I hadn’t before.”
Sabine later completed her baccalaureate in Germany and is now studying Biochemistry at Heidelberg University, a highly competitive course. She also noted that her experience at Reach Cambridge became a helpful part of her university applications.
Her family’s connection to the program goes even further. Her brother attended the Engineering course in 2018 and is now completing a master’s degree in Energy Engineering at ETH Zurich.
For both of them, their time in Cambridge helped strengthen their interest in their chosen subjects and encouraged them to pursue their goals with confidence.
Independence and Growth: A First Taste of University Life
For many students, Reach Cambridge is also their first experience living and studying away from home. Balancing classes, activities, and time with friends can be an exciting introduction to what university life might feel like.
Mariam, who attended the program in 2023, found that the experience helped prepare her for the next stage of her education.
“Reach not only gave me the credentials to get offers from many elite universities but it was also my first time away from my family and truly prepared me for living alone in a new environment.”
She is now studying Biomedical Science at the University of Edinburgh, and still remembers the friendships she formed during her time in Cambridge.
“It’s really nice getting to know so many people from all over the world, and it’s even better when you find them again at universities in the UK. Having a familiar face is always so great.”
Experiences like these are an important part of the program. Alongside academic learning, students develop independence, confidence, and the ability to adapt to new environments. If this sounds like your perfect summer experience, start your journey here.
Inspiring Surroundings & Exploring the United Kingdom
The city of Cambridge plays an essential role in shaping the Reach Cambridge experience, with its historic colleges, libraries, green spaces, and riverside walks, Cambridge provides a setting that naturally encourages curiosity and exploration. Simply walking through the city offers a sense of connection to centuries of academic discovery.
Living and studying in such surroundings helps students see learning from a new perspective. Many find that the environment becomes a source of inspiration, encouraging them to think more creatively and engage more deeply with their studies.
Students also take part in a full schedule of organised activities in Cambridge. From sports and creative workshops to evening social events, the activities program ensures that students can relax, connect with others, and enjoy their time outside the classroom.
Alongside this, at Reach Cambridge, we also combine academic learning with opportunities to explore some of the United Kingdom’s most famous destinations. Excursions often include visits to destinations such as London, Oxford, Brighton, and Stratford-upon-Avon, allowing students to experience British history, architecture, and culture while spending time with friends from the program.
Finding Inspiration in the Heart of Cambridge
The city itself often leaves a lasting impression on students. Walking through historic colleges, studying in inspiring surroundings, and spending time in a place known for academic discovery can change how students think about their own future.
Jamie attended Reach Cambridge in 2022, studying Physics and Music, two subjects he loved and continues to pursue today. During his stay he lived at Trinity Hall, formed close friendships, and discovered just how motivating the Cambridge environment could be.
“I enjoyed studying immensely, fell in love with the Cambridge experience and ultimately this sealed the deal to convince me to strive for and apply to Cambridge.”
Today, Jamie is an undergraduate at Jesus College, Cambridge, studying the Music Tripos. Alongside his studies he is also the Junior Organ Scholar, taking part in several chapel services each week while balancing the busy life of a Cambridge student.
Reflecting on how his journey began, he shared a message that meant a great deal to our team:
“If it weren’t for Reach, it’s quite possible I would not have striven to study abroad, let alone at Cambridge. In a sense, I truly did reach Cambridge.”
A Global Community: Friendships Around the World
While students join Reach Cambridge for academic exploration, many say the friendships they make are among the most memorable parts of the experience.
Olivia attended the program in July 2022, taking the Medicine and Life Sciences course. She remembers how every day brought something new, from academic sessions and exploring Cambridge to excursions and time spent with friends.
“Each day provided so many opportunities to learn and explore. Then the weekends were the best, we got to go to Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle.”
But what she remembers most clearly are the people she met during her stay.
“I still remember all the girls that lived on my floor and stayed connected with many of them.”
These friendships are a reflection of the international community that forms each summer, where students quickly discover how much they can learn from one another as well as from their tutors.
Looking Ahead
Every student arrives in Cambridge with their own interests and ambitions. Some already have a clear path in mind, while others are still exploring what they might like to study in the future.
What many alumni share, however, is the feeling that their time at Reach Cambridge helped them grow academically, personally, and socially. Whether it leads to new friendships, a deeper interest in a subject, or inspiration for future university study, the experience often stays with students long after the summer ends.
If you would like to experience Cambridge for yourself, you can learn more about the program and begin your application here.
