Amira scoops prestigious essay writing prize
"With a desire to broaden my knowledge around my A-level subjects and practice my researching skills, I decided to enter the Girton College Cambridge Humanities Writing Competition. Entrants were provided with five artefacts from the Lawrence Room collection and asked to write a piece of their choice inspired by the objects. Initial research uncovered that a rather eroded piece which had once resembled a bull had limited information readily available about it. Sensing a challenge, I decided to delve as deeply as I could into the history behind the piece. My essay examined if migration had ultimately been the source of inspiration behind the figurine in the College’s collection.
Characteristically, I was rather pessimistic about my chances and did not expect to hear anything more about my entry. Therefore, I was shocked and more than a little elated when I was contacted by the student liaison officer, who informed me that I had been placed as a runner-up.
On Thursday the 26th of April, Mrs Clancy and I boarded the train to Birmingham at 10:00 am. I was feeling very excited but also slightly apprehensive. In order to distract myself from the nervousness which was threatening to engulf me, I decided to look at ancient history memes, which I managed to justify as a form of last-minute pedagogy in preparation.
Upon arrival in Cambridge, I was struck by the beautiful architecture and atmosphere which held undertones of a bygone era. Once we arrived at Girton, we were escorted to the Lawrence Room and introduced to the other finalists. It is 70 years since Cambridge started awarding women degrees, so it seems fitting that all the finalists should be female. Surprisingly, two of the other girls were also from Gloucestershire and we knew some of the same people, so conversation flowed easily. After browsing the college museum, I was struck by how tiny the Bull figurine I based my essay on really was. After speaking to some fellows of the college, we were then given a student lead tour. I am not ashamed to admit that as a lover of Russian history, I got particularly excited about the Russian icons outside the chapel!
Following our tour, it was time for afternoon tea and the presentation of prizes. We were able to talk to the mistress of Girton College who was incredibly welcoming, friendly and encouraging to all finalists, with some very lovely and complimentary comments about all of our essays.
At 5:20 we left and made our way back to the train station. All in all, it was an excellent day."
Amira Nandhla (L6LJC)
