Target Visits
What's it all about? Unfortunately, a lot of prospective students still believe many of the myths and stereotypes that surround Cambridge and don't apply as a result. No matter how many times the University or the Students' Union invites students and schools to open days and residential visits, they often turn down the opportunity, thinking the University and these schemes aren't for them. So if they won't come to us, we decided to go to them.
The result was the Target Visits scheme. It involves Cambridge students, over the Easter and early summer vacation, going back to either their old school or a school in their home town and talking to students, dispelling myths, and encouraging them to consider making an application.
When is it? Whenever suits you. Most students will go on Target Visits in the Easter or early summer vacations, as these are the times that schools are most receptive to visits, but there are no requirements. If you'd like to arrange a visit at another time, you can contact the CUSU Access Officer for help and advice.
How do I get involved? You just need to sign up online to be a Target Visits volunteer. Simply follow the links, type in your details (eg. where you live) and the database will provide details of a school in your local area that has requested a Target Visit from a Cambridge student. Once you've signed up, just contact the school to arrange a suitable time for your visit.
What help can I receive to do this? You can request a pack to help you give your talk, and all of the resources are also on the tips page of the database. These include a list of suggestions of things to talk about, a powerpoint presentation, various leaflets on interviews and fincance. These packs are available all year round from the CUSU office: feel free to drop by and pick one up. You can also pick up University and Alternative Prospectuses, and other material that may be of interest to you and the school you visit.