Global Symposium
Immerse Global Symposium in Cambridge
Throughout the Immerse Education Global Symposium for 16-18-year-olds, you will be introduced to a range of fascinating topics, reside at a Cambridge University College, and develop new skills as you work through a carefully constructed syllabus which addresses the interdisciplinary nature of challenges facing our society.
You will gain a better perception of how subjects relate to each other in the real world, as well as an insight into the opportunities that await you at university level. You’ll also gain an in-depth understanding of a wide-range of disciplines as you explore new topics thematically through workshops and lectures delivered by experts in their fields.
Immerse™ Global Symposium Example Modules
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Module 1 - Genetic Engineering
In this topic you will learn from world-leading academics as they explore the science, ethics and laws surrounding this fascinating development in scientific potential. You will gain detailed insight into genes, genetics and how such a small change can manifest itself to have such profound effects. With a solid foundation of scientific understanding, you will then explore the technology that enables us to engineer our genes, and those of other organisms. Having established an understanding of what genetic engineering is, and the potential that it holds for the future, you will then explore the ethical and legal implications that this technology have for us in the future. How does the existing legal framework approach the problem? What further laws and regulations should be put in place to protect us in the future? Who has the right to decide, and how soon should these laws be enacted? -
Module 2 - Sustainability
We are all acutely aware of the need to reduce our carbon footprint, lower emissions, and protect the environment as the planet struggles to cope with the impact of human activities. In this topic we will consider how engineering, architecture and geography may be utilised to support us to live more sustainably in the future. You will explore the latest developments in materials engineering and how scientists are replicating biological processes already found in nature to produce solutions to the existing damage that has been done to the planet. You will also learn about the role that architecture has to play in supporting wildlife and nature while supporting the needs of our growing population, and discuss how architecture is likely to change and develop in the future. Finally, we’ll look at the discipline of geography to understand both the human and physical aspects of sustainability. We will consider what the human population will need to do to combat the effects of climate change which can be clearly seen in the physical world. The topic will conclude with participants working to produce a suggested engineering solution to one of the problems affecting the planet, such as micro plastics, receding glaciers, or loss of habitat. -
Module 3 - Superbugs
The global impact of coronavirus, COVID-19, is unprecedented with governments enforcing measures that continue to change our day to day behaviours. In this topic you will explore the science behind superbugs, the psychology that influences government policies and the philosophies and ideologies that are challenged in enforcing restrictions. You will explore the detail behind how superbugs develop and how they are able to spread through the population so quickly. With an understanding of the behaviour of superbugs, you will then explore how different governments around the world have responded to the outbreak, and consider the psychological considerations behind the policies that have been imposed. Many of the measures taken have been described as draconian. With an understanding of the global response to this crisis, you will also explore the philosophical considerations and ideologies that are brought into question, or to the fore during this time of uncertainty. -
Module 4 - Equality
Why is there inequality in society? What inequalities exist? Can we establish equality across all of society? Should we? In this topic you will look at the politics and economics behind equality, or a lack thereof, and consider historical developments that have brought us to the current state of affairs. You will consider government policies around the world and understand what inequalities officially exist in law, before turning our attention to the de facto inequalities that different communities face. You will consider how governments form their policies and why this results in inequality. Is inequality a result of top-down action, bottom-up, or both? You will explore the inequalities that different communities have faced in history, and what it took to bring this injustice to the fore of society before change could be enacted. You will also consider whether, in 2021, these groups have achieved true equality, and how we can measure this. Finally, you will work on a business proposal for a social enterprise that looks to support a group in society that does not currently have equality.
Download prospectus
Download prospectus
Special Speakers from previous summers
Dr Lynda Shaw
Abi Oyepitan
Kate Atkin
Reviews
I think Immerse is a great way to really discover the subject you’re interested in and find out what it’s like to study it at university. It’s also really useful if you want to apply to Oxbridge since you’ll get all the information you need to create a strong application.
Work hard, play hard.
Action-packed social programme
Outside of lessons, we are proud to offer a busy and diverse social programme to help you get the most out of your time in Cambridge. This includes activities such as punting on the River Cam, zorb football and a murder mystery night in the college.
There are also two excursions during the programme, one day trip to visit Oxford and its constituent colleges, as well as an optional day out in London, seeing the city’s most famous landmarks as well as some free time for shopping. Those who choose not to travel to London are invited to afternoon tea in Cambridge.
Activities and excursions are run by our team of friendly mentors – who’s main job is to maximise your enjoyment.
Work hard, play hard.
A unique social programme.
Experience traditional 'Formal Hall'
Formal Hall is a traditional weekly meal that takes place in every college. This is an opportunity for students to dress up, dine by candlelight in the magical surroundings of a Cambridge college’s dining hall.
As an Immerse student, you will experience formal dinner three times during your stay – once per week in Cambridge, as well as in an Oxford University college on the excursion day.
Formal hall is truly a memorable occasion, so remember to bring some smart clothes!
A unique social programme.
Live and study in a
Cambridge University College
Experience life as a Cambridge University undergraduate
All participants will be allocated to a college a few weeks before arriving, based on their dates and subject choice.
If you would like to stay in the same location as a friend/sibling – please let us know and we will do our best to arrange this, where possible.
Males and females have separate accommodation in every college, and there is wi-fi available throughout.
For more information, please visit this page.
Pastoral care and safety
An accredited provider of academic short courses
Immerse Education is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), the leading mark of educational quality for the academic sector. Our accreditation with the BAC sends a positive and clear message to students and partners that they are studying with a trusted and reliable provider who has met a series of globally recognised quality assurance standards, both in terms of academic provision and student welfare.
The safety and well-being of our participants is our number one priority, and all staff undergo enhanced background checks and receive thorough safeguarding training before interacting with any students.
For more information, please visit our Pastoral Information page.
Meet Immerse's mentors and
college managers
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Eliza, CambridgeEliza's infectious enthusiasm - from the academic sessions to the talent show -means that she's a firm favourite amongst Immerse students. -
Ore, CambridgeOre participated in Immerse as a student before joining the team whilst studying at Cambridge, relating her Immerse experience to new students.
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Dylan, CambridgeDylan has been both an Immerse Mentor and a College Manager twice! He's known for going the extra mile to make the Immerse experience exceptional.
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Maia, CambridgeMaia is a Cambridge University Theology student who participated in the Immerse Philosophy programme.
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Murray, CambridgeMurray is an enthusiastic Medicine student at Cambridge University, who is always eager to help Immerse students make the best of their experience.
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Olivia, CambridgeOlivia studies Medicine at Cambridge and has a knack for making friends with each of her mentor 'family' - creating a home away from home.
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18th July 2021 – 31st July 2021
