Cambridge- Life in a University Town

I’ve been in Cambridge for a while now and my first impression hasn’t changed that much, although my appreciation and love for Cambridge has grown deeper. It is a beautiful but odd place. When you get further out from the university area, Cambridge is like any other small city, full of stores and houses, nothing that unique.

But the Cambridge I know is full of students and tourists, which of course really affects the feel of a place. I can’t walk in the city centre for five minutes without inadvertently winding up in the backdrop of someone’s photograph. The buildings are more than twice as old as the United States and are absolutely breathtaking, especially the ones along the river Cam. The bridges, buildings, punting on the River, the endless bicycles—it all makes me feel like I’m coming from another time. Especially when compared to the mere decades old US suburbia I’m used to.

I haven’t seen much else of England other than Cambridge, but I’m sure it is not representative, especially being here as a student. For me, it’s very much a university experience. Courses and my college activities dominate my life. And, as a grad student, those I interact with are from all over the world. But the traditions and feel here is unique—except maybe for “that other university” (Oxford).

It’s strange, though. In some ways Cambridge is classic England. The buildings, the gowns, and the hallowed halls where Isaac Newton, Francis Bacon, Charles Darwin, John Maynard Keynes, Lord Byron, and Stephen Hawking all studied. (Of course, other graduates such as Stephen Fry, Emma Thompson, and the fictional but beloved Mr. Darcy should not be overlooked) It all just seems so British. Granted, I’m American, so I could be completely wrong, but there seems to be such a strong tie between Oxbridge and the English identity, the number of tourists only serves as further support. 

For me, Cambridge has become home. It’s full of friends and fun, and even a little magic. I mean, we have college colors and wear gowns (cap and gown type gowns, not dresses). We eat formal dinners in grand halls with the fellows sitting at a high table. It’s all, so very Hogwarts. (This is of course my inner nerd talking and is also being said for the benefit of my Harry Potter loving friends back home!) I can’t wait to see what next term brings!