Bruce Chen – winning a place at Cambridge
O ne of the “most impressive young musicians” to have attended Christ’s College in recent times – in tandem with being named an Outstanding Scholar in Year 13 – has won a place at the prestigious King’s College at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Bruce Chen – the 2022 College Head of Academic – has long held a dream to experience full-time study at King’s College. Founded in 1441, the much-admired institution is esteemed for its advanced academic achievement, along with its internationally acclaimed choir, and instrumental music programme. Complementing his passion for music and his international achievements in informatics, King’s College at Cambridge sets the scene for Bruce’s near future – studying for a Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science from October. Ranked No.2 in the QS World University Rankings for 2024, the University of Cambridge is
an international leader in future technology. “As well as the opportunity to meet some amazing people, I will be able to enjoy the challenge of Cambridge’s Computer Science course, which is one of the most comprehensive in the world,” Bruce points out. "Unlike in New Zealand, my degree will solely consist of computer science-related content. Some of the most influential scientists in the world have been educated at Cambridge, including Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Stephen Hawking, and Alan Turing – also known as the father of computing. “The collegiate system and the tutorial system are also unparalleled,” he adds. “There are very few institutions in the world which can offer regular one-on-one tutorials to all undergraduate students.” Bruce describes the application process as “definitely time- consuming”.
“I had to submit grades, prepare a personal statement, sit a maths and logic admissions test, and attend two late-night interviews with Cambridge professors,” he says. “However, getting in was a culmination of years of personal interest in computer science, mathematics, and academics in general. Taking Advanced Placement exams at Christ’s College and courses at the University of Canterbury, along with my involvement with Informatics Olympiads, also helped. Special thanks to College for hosting the admissions test on-site and to all my teachers for their steadfast support of me throughout the whole process.” Bruce also highlights that his decision to apply to King’s College at Cambridge has been driven by his time in the music programme – overseen by Robert Aburn – at Christ’s College. “Motivated by my positive experiences with music at Christ’s
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