Finalists’ Day
Finalists’ Day Programme
When? Tuesday 30 June 2026 Time? 12:30 - 18:30 Dress? Business/ Smart Casual Where? Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre/ Old Library and Master’s Garden Cost? Free. Who? You!
What are your next steps going to be when you leave Emma and Cambridge? Our annual Finalists’ Day brings together experts and friends of Emma to celebrate this new phase of your lives share with you practical advice and wisdom.
11:30
Historical Tour
Optional historical tour of Emmanuel led by Dr. Sarah Bendall. Discover the history of our College.
Meet at the Porters’ Lodge.
12:30
Buffet Lunch
Finalists’ Day will kick off with a free buffet lunch in the old library.
Old Library
13:00
Master’s Talk
The Master, Doug Chalmers, will share some of his thoughts about looking after yourself and facing the adventures before you.
Old Library
14:00
Facing the Future
The opening session will help you reflect on finding your purpose and think strategically about your future.
Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre
15:00
Life Hacks 101
Dr. Daniel McKay will share some top tips and life-hacks helpful as you navigate beyond College and Cambridge, from renting to finding free money!
Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre
15:20
Break
Ten minute break for tea, coffee and refreshments
Harrods Room
15:30
Managing Your Money
Money expert and author Linda Davies will be sharing with us the ten things you need to know about managing your money and finances.
Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre
16:30
Career Planning and Resources
Dr. Sonali Shukla from the Careers Centre will provide advice on career planning and the services you can use even after you graduate.
Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre
16:50
Break
Ten minute break for tea, coffee and refreshments
Harrods Room
17:00
Alumni Panel + Welcome to Emmanuel Society
We will conclude with a panel discussion and Q&A with recent Emma graduates who have recently made the same transition you are about to make.
Dr. Sarah Bendall with also share with you your lifelong priveleges as members of the college.
Queen’s Building Lecture Theatre
17:30
Garden Party + Headshots
We will end the day with celebratory drinks and the opportunity to chat with some of our speakers and alumni guests.
A professional photographer from the Headshot Company will be set up to take professional headshots that you can use on social media like LinkedIn.
Master’s Garden
Submit a
Question
Do you have a question you want answered during the day? We try and get one of our experts to answer it for you.
Where will your studies take you?
Your studies in Cambridge can take you in many directions, from professional careers to that job which sets you off on unexpected adventures.
If you have clear ideas, then do your research into your field or industry. Seek advice or a mentor. If you are open to lost of things you just need to think about what and where you might like to work. It’s worth having a conversation with the University’s Careers Service.
Whatever direction you are headed, they can help advise on preparing cover letters and CVS, prepping for job interviews and looking for jobs on their listing service Handshake. You can also have a chat with Fiona Nunn, the Emma Experience Deputy Director and careers ninja.
Where have Emma grads gone?
Emma students have gone on to a range of careers all over the world from film directors to scientists. Want some advice from those who have gone before? Utilise the Emma Members directory on the Development Office webpages. It lists people who would love for you to get in touch.
Interested in Further Study?
If you’d rather continue your studies, pursue research or take a different path. Then check out the Emma Experience page on postgraduate studies.