Lucy Cavendish was fundamental during my time at Cambridge

Felicia is an Architect and a Lucy Cavendish alumna. She was a recipient of a research studentship from Lucy and was awarded a Cambridge Blue in athletics. 

“At the time of matriculation, two students were studying the same MPhil MAUD (Master of Philosophy - Architecture and Urban Design).  Our course included travelling to our respective sites to conduct research, which meant many of us needed funding. Through Lucy, we were able to receive grants which helped us to successfully complete our respective thesis studies. For me, it meant I was able to travel to Mexico and continue to collect primary data for my project. Thanks to Lucy’s support I was able to continue studying whilst having the support needed to continue my extra-curricular activities, which also included teaching to undergraduate architecture students. .

During my studies at Cambridge I joined the Cambridge University Athletic Club (CUAC). Being part of such a hard-working talented team was inspirational. At the point I joined CUAC my last athletic competition was 2009, and I had struggled to find consistency in my training. I worked very closely with Ben Davies who coached me to achieve a personal best. My teammates were a great support in my journey to achieving the Full Blue Award. CUAC has a strong teamwork mentality and at the time I was training I saw many of my teammates also achieve this award. I do believe in a good balance between exercise and work. Regardless of the result, the time and effort put in on a daily basis allowed me to clear my mind and gain stronger focus during my study hours. Since my award for Triple Jump, I have ventured in Triathlons with my first big competition in 2021.

Lucy Cavendish is an exceptional college, and it was the backbone of my time at Cambridge. A special mention goes to all the porters who from day one, and especially Ronan Le Noac'h, who ensured I had all the information I needed and made me feel welcome into Lucy. The following years I spent studying at Cambridge, I had overwhelming levels of support from Dr Susan Jackson and Benedicte Foo, who helped me set out plans for my time at University and beyond. I will be eternally grateful to them.”

Felicia’s expertise lies in border studies focusing on the social-economic development of communities in conflict areas. Her professional and academic endeavours are international in focus; she has been involved in a wide range of projects in the U.S, Mexico and the UK. She now runs an interdisciplinary team focusing on design and research based in London. The team is a hybrid of architects, researchers and urbanists who come together to design, investigate and strategise on a wide variety of projects, from architectural pursuits to urban scale masterplans. They strive to create dynamic spaces contoured to the communities in which we build. 

Your support during LucyGives Giving Week (18-25 October) will ensure that all students can make the most of their Cambridge experience just like Felicia, irrespective of their background or financial capacity. In this way, your generosity will enhance their studies, ensuring they can achieve what they are capable of academically and progress confidently into their chosen careers.

What is LucyGives?

Together, we’ll raise funds during LucyGives (18-25 October) to help us level the playing field, ensuring those from under-represented or disadvantaged backgrounds can thrive academically and make the most of all that Cambridge has to offer. We’ll ensure they develop the skills required to achieve their career ambitions, so that they really can go on to make a positive impact on the world.

To get involved and to show your support please visit lucygives.lucy.cam.ac.uk