The annual Kusuma Trust University Talks were held in Gibraltar on 13 April. Due to Covid19 restrictions, for the first time the Talks took place virtually, and coincided with the Gibraltar Careers Fair, which also took place virtually later in the day. Jane Marshall, from Optimising Futures UK, and Derek Browne from Entrepreneurs in Action, delivered a range of lively and enthusiastic presentations to Year 12 students with guidance on; the university application process, how to write an excellent personal statement, how to conduct an effective interview and ultimately how to cope with life at university once they get there; and information for those students wanting to apply for jobs and apprenticeships.

In the afternoon, high-intensity workshops lead by Jane and Derek provided specific advice to those students considering an application to Oxbridge, medical degrees and those considering an entrepreneurial career. Students were also provided resources and useful links to help them source the vital evidence they need for their personal statements and interviews.

Speaking after the event Jane Marshall commented: “I was delighted to be invited back, albeit virtually, to speak to the Year 12 students. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire day and I was truly impressed by the calibre of the students and the insightfulness of the questions they were asking; many of them had clearly researched their options carefully before the day. I wish them all every success with their applications. Huge thanks, as always, to Kusuma Trust Gibraltar for kindly supporting the event, to the Department of Education and all the teachers involved for all their hard work in organising the event.”