Oxbridge Support from Dr Victoria Harvey CO98

The School welcomed a visit from Old Truronian Dr Victoria Harvey CO98 who is now the Undergraduate Admissions Tutor for St John’s College at the University of Cambridge. Victoria generously offered her time to demystify the daunting process of applying to Oxbridge, and to talk specifically about the application process to Cambridge where she currently works. Victoria was previously Director of Admissions at Lucy Cavendish College and also worked in outreach roles at Robinson College and Trinity Hall.

After leaving School, Victoria went to university before stepping away after a year to travel. She lived in Egypt for a time before returning to the UK to study at the University of Exeter for a BA Hons in French, gaining a 1^st Class Honours. She then successfully applied for the University of Oxford to study an MA in French Renaissance Literature before pursuing a doctorate in the same subject at the University of Cambridge. Victoria’s research interests lie in 16th century French literature and visual culture. Her PhD thesis examined satirical representations of the figure of the vieille in French Renaissance poetry; more recent research examines 16th century representations of the 1495 syphilis epidemic and Real Tennis in the 16th century.

Victoria spoke to students about the application process and fielded questions, ranging from what she looks for in the initial application to personal statements and she offered practical advice with an in-depth understanding the fears and anxieties that accompany the daunting task of applying to Cambridge.

There was detailed discussion about applications for Medicine, the sciences and humanities, and the benefits of a gap year. Victoria explained what happens in the interview, how to make the most of open days, the importance of extra-curricular subjects and how to choose your degree.

For the students, Victoria’s visit was more than just a mere talk; it was a glimpse into the realm of possibility, a reminder that their Oxbridge aspirations are valid and attainable. They were left knowing that hopefully, with hard-work, perseverance and guidance, an Oxbridge education may well be their next steps.