Being w/class and going to Cambridge

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I’ve always been a diligent worker. Having worked part-time throughout my A-levels in a fish and chip shop, I knew what hard work meant. When I received my offer to study at Cambridge University I was congratulated by my colleagues for finally “making it”. In the warm heat of June, a few days before my last exam, I thought this would be the last time I would smell the fish in batter mix as it hit the sizzling oil. I reflected on the idea that Cambridge meant I was finally competing on a level playing field with socially and economically privileged students

Within my first four days at university, by which time tickets had already sold out for the winter ball, I realised this was not the case. Around me, students effortlessly parted with well over £100 for that one night out. I could only struggle to do the same

Research shows that Oxbridge graduates from more privileged backgrounds earn about £5,000 a year more than those from disadvantaged backgrounds. When I discovered this, I was shocked. I’d been told by teachers that a Cambridge degree would be the “great equaliser”. After all, I had been chosen through meritocracy, selected on the basis of my ability. It didn’t matter where I had come from, I could achieve anything.

Come on.

You're at a super elite university, and can't afford a 100 pound special event ???