The annual Stevens Academic Scholars’ Dinner brought together current Scholars and staff at Bradfield College for an evening celebrating intellectual curiosity, academic ambition, and the thriving scholarly community at the College.

This year’s dinner welcomed two guest speakers: Charlotte Thompson, a PhD candidate in Medieval Literature at Durham University, and Old Bradfieldian Fran Collins nee Jackson (K 05-07), whose doctoral research was in Metabonomics and who is now Head of Research Support and Development at UCL. Their talks offered contrasting perspectives but were united by a common theme: the importance of finding your own path while embracing unexpected academic opportunities.

Lottie shared her journey into medieval literature, reflecting on how saying yes to opportunities and following her instincts opened doors she had never anticipated at school. Fran spoke about the twists and turns of her own career, from scientific research to leadership at UCL, showing Scholars that academic journeys rarely follow a straight line.

The talks prompted thoughtful reflection among Scholars across year groups. Eve (Year 11) commented: “Both talks were really engaging. I liked how they covered very different topics, but both still had a focus on finding your path.”

For Freddy (U6th), the timing was especially valuable as he begins his own university applications: “The evening was such a positive and encouraging start to scholarly life for the new Scholars. The advice they both gave about university felt very honest and genuine, and it was particularly helpful as I am in the process of applying now.”

The Stevens Academic Scholars’ Dinner 2025 was both a celebration of scholarship and a reminder of the values that underpin the programme: curiosity, ambition, and openness to new opportunities. As Scholars look ahead to the year, the evening stood as a powerful example of the many paths available to young academics and the importance of having the courage and determination to follow them.

If you would be happy to be a speaker at a future College event do get in touch, contact the Bradfield Society office on bradfieldsociety@bradfieldcollege.org.uk