History PhD student Phoebe Heathcote discusses "imposter syndrome" and ways to find inspiration.
How do you feel about the celebration of 40 years of women at Fitz?
Celebrating 40 years of women at Fitz is a great privilege and reminder of the hard work of the numerous women who have come before and their achievements which have enabled me to study here.
Do you have any advice for prospective undergraduate or postgraduate students?
To believe in your abilities and apply! Also, challenge yourself, try new things, and be an active member of the College community. It's a great way to make friends and feel apart of something, but most importantly it's an opportunity to shape this community so that it is truly reflective of all its members.
Has anything surprised you about Cambridge? Have you faced any challenges?
I've been surprised by how friendly people have been and it's been delightful finding things in common with people from the other side of the world. The biggest challenge has been trusting in my abilities, impostor syndrome is real when surround by such a variety of amazing people - be inspired by them rather than intimidated!
What else do you do apart from your subject in Cambridge?
I run a graduate workshop at my faculty. I row for Fitzwilliam (something I had never tried before Cambridge) and am a member of the MCR committee. I also enjoy trying all the delicious food my housemates cook!
Why did you choose Cambridge? What made you choose Fitzwilliam?
I chose to study at Cambridge for the opportunity to work with the leading scholars in my field. Fitzwilliam College is supporting my studies through funding my PhD, it is a great privilege to study in an environment where I know students are supported and be part of a community that values my research.
