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Murray Edwards College
University of Cambridge

Q&A with Bethan Wallace

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    10 November 2020

    Bethan Wallace joins the College as the new Schools Liaison Officer. Originally from Wales, she moved to Oxford in 2016 to complete a BA in Biological Sciences before moving to Cambridge to complete her MPhil in Zoology.

    Bethan Wallace holding a bird.

    Welcome to Murray Edwards Bethan, how does it feel to be here?

    It feels great to be here! I’ve had a wonderful first week, meeting the team and finding my feet. It definitely is unusual as I am joining Murray Edwards from home during lockdown, but I am looking forward to the day when I can meet everyone in person and work in College.

    Can you tell us a bit about the role of Schools Liaison Officer and what drew you to the position?

    The Schools Liaison Officer is responsible for encouraging students from all backgrounds to apply to Murray Edwards and Cambridge. Usually this would involve going to visit schools in our link areas (Derbyshire, Manchester, and Haringey) and hosting school visits to Murray Edwards. The role of SLO will be very different this year but I am excited to get stuck in!

    I was drawn to the role due to my own background and educational experiences. I am passionate about improving access to Higher Education for underrepresented groups. Due to my background I am particularly passionate about helping women in STEM and estranged students. During my undergraduate, I acted as Student Ambassador for my college (Jesus, Oxford) and department. I enjoy giving presentations and answering student’s questions and encouraging them to apply to Higher Education. I am thrilled after three years of helping out as a Student Ambassador, I now get to work for Murray Edwards as SLO.

    What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

    It’s not really advice, but in Cyprus we say “Siga siga” which means “slowly slowly”. There’s no use getting flustered, just take it slowly slowly, and everything will work out alright.

    What do you like to do in your free time?

    I love photography! I love getting outside and walking along the river, seeing the cows and people with their dogs. I enjoy finding a bird, whether that’s a kingfisher on the river or the peregrines around King’s chapel, and just sit and watch them until they leave. I also have a pet betta named Alfred and I enjoy watching him build his nests and chasing his food!