Freya lives in Henley and studies Geography, Environmental Science and Philosophy A-Level at the College as well as having a major role in the college Student Union. After winning a national geography competition, Freya Ruparel has been selected to compete for Team UK in the International Geography Olympiad this summer (iGeo 2019).
Freya says- "I have a passion for Geography and it is the is the fulcrum between my aspirations and my academic studies and an opportunity like this would hone my interests in population and the environment preparing me for a career dedicated to developing a sustainable future. I have received an offer from the University of Cambridge to study geography this year and locally I have participated in tree planting community volunteering, a campaign against plastic waste in the Thames, have undertaken work experience with Henley Town Council and have been to Westminster to lobby for more college funding, meeting our local MP and speaking on ITV news.
The International Geography Olympiad is a competition for the top 16-19 year old geography students from across the world. I have been selected to represent Team UK as one of four students in Hong Kong this summer but funds are needed to travel to this amazing location and bring success to Team UK.
I achieved this incredible opportunity after competing in the national Geographical Association iGeo competition focusing on upland moorland conservation and wildfires in the UK. This research involved writing and essay and answering questions whilst discovering the geography behind the summer Saddleworth Moor wildfires and the strategies used to mitigate their effects whilst adapting in the future to reduce the threat."
This years international competition has a focus on discovering a vibrant city for our smart future and will take place in Hong Kong in August 2019. The week-long competition involves a written test, a multimedia test and substantial fieldwork requiring observation, leading to cartographic representation and geographical analysis. The aims of the Olympiad are to: stimulate active interest in geographical and environmental studies among young people; contribute positively to debate about the importance of geography as a senior secondary school subject by drawing attention to the quality of geographical knowledge, skills and interests among young people; facilitate social contacts between young people from different countries and in doing so, contribute to the understanding between nations.
Each representative needs to find £1,850 of sponsorship for the travel costs associated with iGeo. If you could donate to Freya's trip please visit her crowdfunding page here, or email freya.ruparel@gmail.com to help her compete on an international level.
