Alumni student Eva Carroll graduated with a First-Class University of Cambridge degree, ranking in the top 10% of her subject! Eva now plans to complete a Masters in journalism at the University of Salford this September.
Eva came to Carmel from Notre Dame High School, leaving college in 2020 with an impressive set of A Level results in Politics, English Literature and History, progressing to read English Literature at King’s College, Cambridge. During her time at Carmel, Eva was president of the Student Council and was also elected as a member of the UK Youth Parliament.
In her recent article, published by The Liverpool Echo, Eva shares some of her experiences of her time at Cambridge. Eva said “I picked King’s because it has a reputation as being the most liberal and relaxed college. At King’s you don’t have to wear a gown, and the formals are much more fun and chilled out than others. I joined all kinds of societies and took advantage of so many incredible opportunities and I am really grateful for the experiences I had.”
Eva explained that at times she did feel like the odd one out coming from a modest background in Liverpool, but she didn’t let it hold her back. “In my first few weeks I didn’t meet a single person with a northern accent. A lot of the people in my halls had just finished their gap year or ski season. Going to Cambridge with many people who were more privileged than me just made me prouder to come from Liverpool and embrace my own identity. I accepted that I was different to a lot of people there, but I didn’t let that hold me back from making the most of the experience.
“Throughout my degree when I felt I didn’t fit in or wasn’t clever enough, I often thought back to their decision to offer me a place and remembered that I had as much of a right to be there as anyone else. I want more kids from Liverpool to feel that way.” In her article Eva also talks about the Aspire Programme which is aimed at young people in Liverpool, helping them maximise their chances of progressing to competitive universities.
Eva looked back on her time at Carmel with fond memories saying: “The pastoral support I received at Carmel allowed me to fulfill my academic potential. I made lots of friends at Carmel and the experience really helped me as a stepping stone to university. I feel like I found my own voice at Carmel and it gave me the courage to stand up for what I believe in.”
Eva also does a lot of keynote speeches centered around inclusion and diversity. She specialises in LGBTQ+ issues and rights, social mobility, and gender equality. Click the link for more information – Eva Carroll – Exclusive Agent – Keynote & Motivational Speaker (rivamedia.co.uk)
We’re so proud of all that Eva has achieved and wish her well for her future studies and career. We look forward to welcoming Eva back into college in the coming months to deliver an ‘Inspire Me’ talk to our students. Click here to read the full Liverpool Echo news article.
Carmel students who are aiming for competitive universities and courses benefit from lots of support, encouragement and opportunities during their time here. Click the link to find out more about our High Achievers+ Programme.
Photo credit – Eva Carroll