The opportunity of studying at Girton College at the University of Cambridge was absolutely a highlight and core memory I will cherish forever. As an English Literary Studies Major in the United States there is often a stereotype and/or stigma against the humanities. We who study humanities are often asked what will we do with our degrees? We are told studying areas such as English Literature is useless. It can be very difficult to have a passion for something and constantly be asked “why?” However, at Girton any doubts I had about the degree I was getting disappeared. While I have felt seen and appreciated as an English major through my Sigma Tau Delta chapter and English Department it was still an intense feeling at Girton to be seen in a different light from what we who study English receive back home. It was a different level of appreciation where learning did not seem influenced by societal expectations but rather pure eagerness to be knowledgeable because one loves something that much. It settled something in me that really made me understand why I love studying literature and why I will continue to study literature. In a society where humanities are diminishing but very much needed this trip and experience really emphasized how important it is that we keep both words and the power of studying literature alive.
The history of Girton being rich in women obtaining education and taking the risk really solidified my goals after I graduate. I plan to attend Law School after I complete my degree at Missouri Southern State University. This can feel like a risk and a huge step for me to take as a woman of Hispanic and Latin American heritage. The women who took the risk to come to Girton are so greatly important to the process of women being able to receive higher education. Girton was established less than 200 years ago. Women attaining higher education is still a new concept. It made me confident in my ability to reach my academic goals and continue to move forward not only for me as a woman wanting to receive higher education, but for the women who will come after me. It is because of women like those who took the risk to first come to Girton, that some of us were able to stand in the same halls they might have walked or rooms they might have sat in. It is also because of women like them that some of us were able to speak in those classrooms and have an opinion. These women took the risk, and we must make sure that the dreams of learning and wanting to pursue higher education and knowledge do not dwindle or entirely diminish.
Gabriella Sanjur
Cambridge Undergraduate Summer Program Recipient, 2026
Lambda Xi Chapter
Missouri Southern State University, Joplin, MO
Sigma Tau Delta–Cambridge Undergraduate Summer Program
Spend a week immersed in the world of English literature at one of the most prestigious universities in the world. The Sigma Tau Delta–Cambridge Undergraduate Summer Program offers students an unforgettable chance to live, study, and explore at historic Girton College, at the University of Cambridge.
This is a rare opportunity to walk the same paths as generations of scholars, poets, and thinkers who shaped the literary tradition. You’ll take part in two courses designed especially for Sigma Tau Delta and taught by distinguished Cambridge faculty, experience the vibrant social and cultural life of the city, and live the true Cambridge college experience. From punting on the River Cam to attending a centuries-old Formal Hall, every moment of this week combines academic excellence with authentic Cambridge traditions.
Through close reading, critical discussion, and essay writing, you’ll sharpen your analytical skills and deepen your understanding of English literature in ways that will benefit you long after the program ends. With personalized instruction in small seminars, expert faculty feedback, and access to Cambridge’s unparalleled academic environment, this program will equip you with the tools to think more deeply, write more persuasively, and approach literature with fresh insights.
Application Process
Applications are open until November 2, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (CT).
Undergraduate Sigma Tau Delta members are asked to complete a short application form to participate in the Sigma Tau Delta–Cambridge Undergraduate Summer Program 2027.
The application process includes the following questions, which Sigma Tau Delta members must respond to:
- Why are you interested in participating in the Sigma Tau Delta–Cambridge Summer Program? (max. 200 words)
- How do you expect this experience will enhance your academic and professional growth? (max. 200 words)
- What unique perspectives or experiences have you gained as a member of Sigma Tau Delta that will positively impact you on the Sigma Tau Delta–Cambridge Summer Program? (max. 200 words)
More from Footnotes: October 27, 2026
2027 Convention Update
English Honor Societies Webinars
Book Club Kits
Upcoming Regional Events
