05/06/2026
Last year, Jane Clarke (WCAS ’24) won the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Through the award, Jane is pursuing an MPhil in American History at the University of Cambridge, where she is conducting research on children’s literature and empire in Britain and America in the early twentieth century. Her dissertation focuses on iconic works like “Tarzan” and “The Jungle Book,” exploring their cultural and historical impact. Alongside her academic work, Jane has been involved in the Gates Cambridge community; she serves as the alumni officer on the Gates Student Council and participates in college life at Jesus College, including rowing with the boat club.
“As corny as it is to say,” Jane told us, “I’ve learned as much outside of the classroom as in it. Cambridge is a truly international community, and it’s been amazing to interact with people from around the world. The Gates community, in particular, has been a very enriching experience. It’s wonderful to be around people who care so deeply about making an impact on the world. Also, I’m trying to pick up the best British phrases (my favorites are ‘I’m keen’ and ‘not fussed’).”
Through her time at Cambridge, Jane has embraced both academic and personal growth, engaging in interdisciplinary research, building global connections, and taking full advantage of opportunities to travel across Europe. She continues to explore how literature shapes historical narratives and cultural identity while contributing to a vibrant international scholarly community.
In the first photo, you can see Jane punting on the River Cam.
In the second photo, she is pictured with the 2025 Gates Scholars cohort during their orientation retreat in the Peaks District.
In the final photo, Jane is rowing with the Jesus College W4 Lent Bumps boat—one of her favorite Cambridge experiences.
We get so much from seeing the impact our make with their awards! 🇬🇧📚🚣♀️
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