Last term, Professor Amy Erickson asked the Development Office to help her find out what our History alumni have gone on to do after their time at Robinson, in order to inspire our current History students.

A survey sent to our History alumni showed they are now working in a wide range of industries worldwide. Earlier this month, Amy organised a hybrid careers event with 9 history alumni online and 2 in person, ranging from founding students (1980-83) to more recent ones. Their post-Robinson careers included journalist, fundraiser, airline salesman, midwife/midwifery professor, local government officer, a range of consultants/lobbyists for the EU, the UK parliament, and the Carbon Trust, finance professionals at different levels, and a lawyer. The students found the evening thoroughly enjoyable and insightful and there are plans to organise similar events in the future.

Thank you to Theo Moore, Chief Client Officer, Public Affairs and Anna Vaughan, Fundraising Consultant at the National Trust for taking the time to tell us about their careers post Robinson. 

Theo’s advice to our students “Take a risk.  Start at the bottom. Build relationships. Cambridge helped get me get a foot in door, but after that you need to engage with world on your own terms”.  

Why History? Studying history enables you talk to people about their history and culture in a way that makes them feel understood. Having a good grasp of history allows you to build a connection with people, understand their background and engage with sensitivity. History is a way people use to identify themselves. History gives you a perspective on world.  AI can’t know the answer of history – will still be a debate. 
 

Anna’s advice to students: “Use what Cambridge offers whilst you are here to practice skills and gain experience for the future. For example Anna's gained experience in fundraising at the Brickhouse Theatre whilst at Robinson. 
Many jobs don’t have a direct route, grab all the opportunities that come up. Volunteer, do administrative work to upskill and gain practical experience.

Why History?  It teaches you to form an argument, interpret sources, assimilate information and communicate well. Anna has put all of these skills to use in her role as a fundraiser at the National Trust.