Harvard dream came true for young Scots

A group of Scottish youngsters were given the chance of a lifetime to spend the summer at the prestigious Harvard University in Massachusetts.

For any teenager, it would have been a wonderful opportunity, something to take pride of place on their CV.

But for Kriss Ference, from East Kilbride, Dale Smith from Rosehearty in Aberdeenshire and Alness teenager Kimberley Larnach it was extra special, because they’ve all been in care.

Research shows young people growing up in care can struggle when it comes to progressing to further education.

So, while other youngsters enjoyed school-free weeks over the summer, Kriss, Dale and Kimberley jumped at the chance of seven weeks studying at one of the world’s best universities.

Kriss says it was an amazing adventure.

“I wasn’t nervous,” he says. “I was excited it was a once in a lifetime chance. It was mind-blowing to be there.”

Kimberley admits: “I was worried I wouldn’t make friends or the work would be too difficult.

“But we had a weekend there before classes began. That really helped. I started to enjoy it straight away.”

His time at Harvard meant Kriss saw US students trying to put the American dream into action.

“Every single person I met had ambitions and they were all exceptionally high!” he laughs.

“As well as their ambitions being big, the portions of food were huge. Everything was just excessive!”

The Harvard trip was organised by charity Who Cares Scotland.

“Young people with experience of care are amongst the most discriminated people in Scotland,” says Chief Executive Duncan Dunlop.

“For too many, the care system fails to enable them to fulfil their potential.

“But Kriss, Kimblerley and Dale thrived at Harvard. It shows children in care can succeed like all other young Scots if given support and opportunity.”

Although they agree it was an amazing experience, Kriss says they worked hard, too.

“Someone wrote the other day, ‘Studying = Student + Dying’!” he laughs.

“I agree! But the professors were great at helping people with their worries.”

Kriss, 20, Kimberley, 16, and 19-year-old Dale returned to Scotland on Friday.

“I can’t believe it’s over. It’s been such a great opportunity,” says Kriss. “I loved it there, people were so nice.”

Kimberley agrees. “I wish I could have stayed. It’s a summer I’ll never forget.”

Kriss says he couldn’t resist buying a souvenir: “I got myself a Harvard hoody. I just wanted to wear it on the plane home!”