Telephone Campaign
Our students have been phoning Emma members all around the world, every year, for over 25 years. These phone calls are a unique opportunity for members to hear Emma news and updates, to share memories, insights and advice with current students, and to hear about the incredible difference supporting the College makes.
Find out more about this year's team of student callers below!
Elisa (4th Year, Architecture)
Best thing about Emma?
I am very grateful for the immensely supportive and friendly atmosphere here at Emma.
Favourite place in College?
The Paddock would easily be my favourite place in college. Having meals with friends on the picnic tables surrounded by ducks was one of my favourite memories at Emma.
Hobbies and interests
Staying in touch with my culture is quite important for me, which is why I enjoy being part of societies such as BanglaSoc and PakSoc. I also like to spend my free time playing badminton and volleyball.
What are you most looking forward to?
I am very excited to not only have the opportunity to find out about the past experiences of Emmanuel members but to also help raise money for the college and other Emma students.
Interesting fact about you?
I can speak six languages, and I am currently learning two more.
Jerry (6th year, Medicine)
Best thing about Emma?
Most people say this but the best thing about Emma is the friendly atmosphere. It’s central but not too busy, the college site is beautiful, and we have a great library. Emmanuel has also been hugely helpful in terms of pastoral and financial support during my studies.
Favourite place in College?
The porter’s lodge – I have spent an inordinate amount of time chatting with the porters in the time I’ve been here. And of course, the Paddock is always a lovely place to sit and think (or not think).
Hobbies and interests
With the help of Hilary Mantel’s Wolf Hall trilogy, I’m starting to read for enjoyment again. I also enjoy looking at and learning about art of all kinds. I love live music and it’s something I missed dearly over the pandemic. I also like the odd quiz.
What are you most looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to speaking with alumni and finding out what they’ve been getting up to, as well as potentially giving them a bit of a flavour of what’s changed since they were here.
Interesting fact about you?
I recently met Ainsley Harriott filming his new television show, and he was delightful.
Aurora (3rd Year Medicine)
Best thing about Emma?
Hands down, the people are the best thing about Emma! The student community is so friendly and welcoming: the Emma medics especially have come to be like another family for me.
Favourite place in College?
The Paddock. I think Emma is unique amongst the Cambridge colleges in having such a beautiful and peaceful green space at its heart that students can actually use as well as admire! Studying there at the picnic tables has definitely helped me through the stressful weeks of exam revision during Easter term, and the transformation it undergoes when it becomes the stage for Emma May Ball is breathtaking.
Hobbies and interests
Whenever I have time, I love to travel. This summer I had the amazing opportunity to do a lab internship as part of the Harvard PRISE programme in Boston, all thanks to Emma’s historic connection with the university! It really was the experience of a lifetime. I also hope to do my fifth-year medical elective abroad, hopefully in Latin America so I can improve my Spanish.
What are you most looking forward to?
Finding out about the careers, interests and life journeys of past Emma students! I am incredibly grateful that I had the chance to study here and hope to encourage members to help ensure future students benefit similarly from the enriching experiences the College has to offer by sharing my story.
Interesting fact about you?
Outside of my degree, I like to learn languages as I see them as a great way to connect with the wider world. This year I hope to take advantage of CULC language courses to revive my Spanish and Italian before Clinical School.
Sneha (1st Year, MBA)
Best thing about Emma?
The best thing about Emma is how it feels like home. Nestled in the heart of Cambridge, the College is surrounded by expansive and breath-taking gardens adorned with lush foliage, vibrant flowers, and rare trees. This haven of tranquillity amidst the bustling city provides a sense of calm and belonging. Being within a short stroll of all the vibrant offerings Cambridge has to offer, from charming pubs and restaurants to lively clubs and shops, makes it even more special. What sets Emma apart from other colleges is the warm and inclusive atmosphere, where every member of the community is invited to freely wander on most of the inviting grassy spaces. It's this welcoming ambiance and the feeling of being embraced by a close-knit community that truly makes Emma exceptional and reminiscent of the warmth and comfort of home.
Favourite place in College?
My favourite place in college is undoubtedly the oriental plane tree in Fellows Garden. Its age remains a mystery, shrouded in the passage of time. The tree's resilience and character speak to me on a deeper level, inspiring me to embrace life's twists and turns with grace and determination. As I sit beneath its ancient branches, I find solace in the way it defies convention, with some branches appearing almost neurotic as they change course, only to find their way again. The intertwined branches symbolize the strength of unity and interconnectedness, reminding me of the importance of forging meaningful relationships. The way some branches gracefully extend over the wall, seemingly navigating by radar, instils in me a sense of adaptability and the courage to explore beyond boundaries. Witnessing the tree being grounded with some branches taking root and paving the way for new life, fills me with hope and a belief in the cyclical nature of growth and transformation. Each time I gaze at its crown, a lighter hue amidst the fresh green shoots, I'm reminded of the beauty in embracing change and the inevitability of evolving with time. The oriental plane tree in Fellows Garden not only captivates me with its age-old beauty but also serves as a constant reminder that life's journey is a continuous dance of growth, resilience, and adaptation.
Hobbies and interests
I am a fascinating blend of loving routine and breaking away from it. The gym has become my second home, where I find joy in pushing my physical limits through lifting weights. But I also crave the serenity of the pool, where I immerse myself in the water, embracing my inner fish as I learn to navigate its depths. To unwind and let go of worries, the sauna is my sanctuary, where I find solace in the soothing heat. Being a self-proclaimed foodie, I love exploring various restaurants, indulging my taste buds in delightful culinary experiences. When the evening sets in, you might catch me at bars, on a quest to find the perfect cocktail that tantalizes my senses. My soul craves the rhythm of live music events and the inspiration found within the walls of museums, where art transcends life itself. And when I seek introspection, you'll often find me in my own space, reflecting on life's journey and cherishing every moment that shapes me into the person I am today.
What are you most looking forward to?
I am eagerly anticipating giving back to future Emma members by raising funds, fostering connections with past members, delving into their cherished Emma memories, and embracing the valuable lessons learned throughout the entire process.
Interesting fact about you?
Amidst the pandemic, I embarked on a life-changing, spontaneous six-month solo journey to an unexplored country.
Katie (2nd Year, Medicine)
Best thing about Emma?
My favourite part of Emma is the community of people that make up the College. This creates a very friendly atmosphere that can be felt as soon as you walk in.
Favourite place in College?
I have so many amazing memories of relaxing on the Paddock with friends, particularly in the Easter term when the sun is out.
Hobbies and interests
I enjoy playing various sports, especially hockey which I’ve played for college and university teams. I also like to spend time with friends and travel.
What are you most looking forward to?
I’m excited to hear Emma members talk about their favourite memories of Emma and be able to share my experiences at the College.
Interesting fact about you?
My great-great-grandparents looked after Jewish children from Germany in Cambridge during Second World War as part of the Kindertransport effort.
Matipa (4th Year PhD in Geography)
Best thing about Emma?
The friendly porters!
Favourite place in College?
The Paddock.
Hobbies and interests
I am really passionate about African literature (fiction and non-fiction). Here at Cambridge, I am proud to have started Black in Geography with some friends which is a departmental seminar that invites Black geographers (students and academics alike) to share their research and how it contributes to the bourgeoning field of Black Geographies in the discipline of geography.
What are you most looking forward to?
Getting to know how Emma was for past Emma students and seeing any similarities or differences in people’s experiences across the years.
Interesting fact about you?
I am a proud cat mom!
KP (MBA)
Best thing about Emma?
The inclusive nature of the College, there is a space for everything and everyone.
Favourite place in College?
The duck pond, evenings have been spent marvelling at the beauty of Emma from the central space! Park Terrace is also a great space, overlooking Parker's Piece. Love the new spaces in Young’s Court as well.
Hobbies and interests
I play and watch a lot of football! Manchester United is my favourite team. Music, learning and performing are my passions.
What are you most looking forward to?
Ability to connect with Emma alumni and hearing about their stories and getting to know their Emma associations.
Interesting fact about you?
I’m a professional musician of the Indian classical genre and also play bass guitar for rock bands.
Gloria (3rd Year, Natural Sciences)
Best thing about Emma?
The college provides a friendly and supportive community, having a support system and people I can reach out to has really helped me deal with health issues. (Not to mention that there is a free laundry service!)
Favourite place in College?
The Paddock is a great place to do some reading, hang out with friends or socialise with ducks! I love a late-night walk around the pond and feeding (Emma porter approved) duck food to the ducks with friends.
Hobbies and interests
Apart from travelling and slowly making my way through IMDB Top 250 Movies, I am also a worshipper of cats.
What are you most looking forward to?
Chatting with old college members of course! I’m curious to learn all the interesting anecdotes during their time at Emma as well as pick up a few tips on navigating post-uni life!
Interesting fact about you?
When I was little, I thought vanilla was the name reserved for ice-cream with no flavour.
Tejal (2nd Year, Chemical Engineering)
Best thing about Emma?
I love how central Emma is but still has a calm and relaxed environment. I particularly enjoy the picturesque campus and rich history of our college, which creates an inspiring atmosphere for academic exploration and personal development.
Favourite place in College?
My favourite spot at Emma is the paddock. It's this cozy oasis where I can chill, study, or simply escape the hustle. Surrounded by historic architecture and lush greenery, it's a peaceful hideaway that feels like my own little haven in the heart of the college. I enjoy walking and sitting on the grass by the pond with my friends. Our college ducks and fish make the place even more lively.
Hobbies and interests
I'm really into a mix of activities that keep me engaged and happy. One thing I absolutely love is reading autobiographies. There's something fascinating about diving into someone else's life journey, understanding their challenges, successes, and the experiences that shaped them. Another thing that gets me excited is watching documentaries. Whether it's about history, nature, or even quirky topics. And then, there's gardening. I find so much peace in tending to plants and watching them grow. I love how nurturing a little green space can be so rewarding.
What are you most looking forward to?
I'm really looking forward to connecting with people who've walked these grounds before and hearing their stories. It's not just about the donations (though that's important too); it's about building these real connections and fostering meaningful relationships with the college's extended family. Plus, I might learn some amazing life lessons from these alums. It's all about giving back and making these awesome connections that can last a lifetime.
Interesting fact about you?
I am extremely passionate about tackling climate change and I write articles on LinkedIn about how we can make positive changes in our lives to live more sustainably as well as combat the damaging effects climate change. One of my articles and a book review was published in the News from Science by AAAS newsletter.
Larissa (4th Year PhD, Chemistry)
Best thing about Emma?
Doing a PhD is very challenging and I would not have been able to complete mine without the constant support from Emma and its community. I am forever grateful for the wonderful people I’ve met within the college throughout the years, who have been by my side during every tribulation and celebration. I feel at ease knowing that I have a special little home within Cambridge where I can go when I am in need of friendship, mentorship or support.
Favourite place in College?
My personal favourite is the pool; I love wild-swimming but convincing my friends to swim in grimy rivers has proved quite a challenge – so I’ve had to settle for many sunny relaxing post-lab swims in the lovely clean pool instead!
Hobbies and interests
Amusingly, the greatest lesson I’ve learned during my chemistry PhD is that I do not enjoy chemistry. What I’m truly passionate about is my work as an artist and I’m hoping to commit to working as an artist full-time once I’ve submitted my thesis. I love exploring different media and am always looking for new techniques to incorporate into my work. I currently primarily work with oil paints or sumi ink, as well as portraits in pencil. I love animals and frequently help my neighbours with dog-sitting, which usually results in quite a few dog portraits!
What are you most looking forward to?
I love talking to and meeting new people! My former supervisor said it was probably my greatest flaw as a chemist, as I was always having too much fun chatting away and not focussing enough on my experiments – unfortunately he did not manage to train this displeasing quality of mine out of me!
Interesting fact about you?
I’m very interested in learning languages – I’m fluent in English, Dutch and Portuguese. I used to be fluent in French but am now too rusty to confidently back that one! I also have basic level qualifications in German, Spanish and British Sign Language. Would love to practise with you if you speak any of these languages!
Eleanor (3rd Year, Medicine)
Best thing about Emma?
The best thing about Emma is the sense of community, and the support you get from staff and peers alike.
Favourite place in College?
The pool. Some of my favourite times in college have been spent there with everybody relaxing in the summer heat.
Hobbies and interests
I enjoy playing sport and have learnt to row whilst at Emma. It has been a great way of meeting people in different years and has helped integrate me into the college community. I also volunteer with Student Community Action, which helps give me perspective and is also a great way of helping the local community.
What are you most looking forward to?
Meeting alumni of Emma and getting to hear their experience of college and what they have done since leaving.
Interesting fact about you?
I have never lost a Harry Potter quiz.