Sixth formers were advised to take control of their futures and not create barriers to success during a special event at the University of Cambridge.

Postgraduate student Anthony Andrews (pictured) addressed more than 300 students at a Taster Day organised by Cambridge’s Group to Encourage Ethnic Minority Applications (GEEMA).

Anthony, who is a member of Sidney Sussex College doing a PhD in International Studies, is originally from Trinidad and Tobago. He had an ambition to study at Cambridge, despite having a poor, immigrant background with no history of university education.

He encouraged all school students to work hard and believe in themselves on their quest for academic success – whatever their background.

“It’s not just a black issue. It’s a female issue, it’s a white issue, it’s a poverty issue and it’s a disability issue.

“If you want to come to Cambridge, like me, you have to work hard and fill in the application form. No-one else can do that for you. There are many distractions along the way, be it family, friends or Facebook. Sometimes you just have to say “I have to work now”.

“Talent is not enough. You have to do the work to get on. If you want to contribute to society, it is your responsibility.”

Anthony explained to the students that his background was far from privileged and he’d had to overcome a number of set-backs.

“The recession hit in the 80s and my parents lost their businesses. They decided the family had a better future in the US. We went from being middle-class to the lowest of the low. Money was a real issue. My mum worked as a cleaner just to give me the chance of an education.”

He studied at a community college where a teacher recognised his talent despite a poor exam result.

“The lecturer called me into his office and asked why I wasn’t at a top university, which confused me when I’d only just passed the exam. It turned out that all my answers were correct – but I’d missed out the back page of questions.”

Unable to afford accommodation at his US university, he became homeless, sleeping on floors and sofas to get by.

“My parents gave me $20 dollars a week, around £16, for my travel and food. It took me eight years rather than four to get my degree but I got there with hard work and determination.

“There’s a price to pay for everything you do but no-one can take away your self-respect unless you give it away to them.”

Anthony also advised students to make their own decisions about their futures.

“Parents may want you to become lawyers or doctors but the decision is yours. Open out your views and look at your interests. Do not shackle yourself.”

Students also heard from students and admissions tutors, and visited colleges during the Taster Day.

Event organiser Gianpaolo Manalastas said: “Cambridge has a diverse community and anyone who is academically able should consider applying.

“We can help pupils from all backgrounds, including providing financial support for children from low income families.”

The University, its Colleges and students organise a wide variety of events for state schools and colleges throughout the year to help raise aspiration and attainment. GEEMA organises an annual residential summer school. Applications for this year’s summer school, between August 2 and 5 are now open.

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