Six In2careers members recently had the incredible opportunity to attend a PhD retreat at Cumberland Lodge with UCL Engineering.
Over the course of three days, six members of our In2careers community gained valuable insights into the world of research, connected with PhD students, and took part in engaging workshops designed to develop their skills and broaden their understanding of academic life.
One participant, Wael, shared his reflections on the experience:
My time at Cumberland Lodge was truly amazing. Over the course of three days, I was thoroughly impressed by the organisation, the welcoming atmosphere, and the thoughtfully curated program. Each day offered a unique blend of learning, collaboration and fun, making the experience both enriching and memorable.
On the first day, we started with a team-building and strengths session, where we explored our top five strengths and discussed how to leverage them effectively, both individually and in collaboration with supervisors. This was followed by a fun and engaging activity where we built K’nex cars powered by pressurised air—a friendly competition that brought out everyone’s creativity and teamwork.
The second day focused on academic writing and presentation skills. I particularly enjoyed the innovative approach of using drama and acting techniques to improve our presentations. It was surprising how well these methods worked, and they added a dynamic twist to what can often be a dry topic, especially in research!
On the final day, we delved into essential but often overlooked topics like ethics and research dissemination. Even though I’m not currently a PhD student, I found these sessions incredibly valuable. Learning about the considerations and safeguards involved in research gave me a deeper appreciation for the complexities of academic work.
Beyond the sessions, the setting itself was breath-taking. The lodge’s rich history, the delicious food, and the serene surroundings—complete with deer roaming the park and views of Windsor Castle—made the experience even more special. It was a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of London and the daily screen time.
Most importantly, I met so many wonderful people who were passionate about research and making a positive impact in the world. The connections I made and the insights I gained will stay with me for a long time.
The Cumberland Lodge retreat gave our members not only a deeper understanding of academic life but also practical skills and confidence to navigate future career paths.
A huge thank you to the team at UCL for offering our young people this opportunity. Opportunities like these are invaluable for young people considering a future in research and academia. First-hand experiences with current PhD students and researchers allow our members to understand the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead in academia while building confidence in their own potential.
The In2careers programme is committed to providing these kinds of transformative opportunities for young people from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Experiences like this retreat are crucial in helping our members make informed decisions about their futures and inspiring them to pursue their goals with confidence. If you are interested in partnering with us to create more opportunities to boost diversity and inclusion in STEM, please get in touch with us by emailing [email protected].