Alumna Profile: Caitlin Link ’12 Pursuing her Passion (and a Graduate Degree) at Oxford

When Caitlin Link ’12 came to Indian Creek School (ICS) as an eighth grade student, she had no idea that her academic journey would take her to the University of Oxford ten years later. Caitlin made the move across the pond to the world’s oldest English speaking school less than a month ago, and she just began studying, or “reading” (as the British call it), for her Master’s degree in art history.

Caitlin is pleasantly baffled by how she came to this point in her life. “I’ve been very fortunate in my life to receive an excellent education, starting at Indian Creek and continuing on through Skidmore College, where I got my BA in Art History. I don’t just mean the academics, either. I mean the incredible support I received from teachers and professors, the practical experiences through working various jobs and internships, and, above all, developing a focus and determination to get my hands on the things that I wanted to do. In this case, it meant getting into Oxford. Other than just sheer luck, it did take a certain amount of focus and strategy—applying to five graduate schools is full-time work in itself on top of working a full time job to save money—and also it takes passion. The admissions committee will know if you’re applying for the name and not your subject, so absolutely love what you do.”

Caitlin credits her ICS network with being a major force behind her goals. “It was really the people who challenged, encouraged, and supported me to grow not only academically, but as a human being as well.” As with many other alumni, Mr. Chip Voros comes to mind as someone who always tested her boundaries but never failed to show his pride when she succeeded. “I still ask myself to this day whether Mr. V would be proud of what I’m doing, and that’s one of the ways I decide what to do next!” Besides the memory of Mr. V, Caitlin fondly recalls the many adventures of the ICS sailing team.

Caitlin has the following advice for her fellow Creekers: “Work hard. School is definitely important and will get you far enough, but remember that school isn’t everything—get close to the teachers you love to have in class, spend time with your friends and family, and, most importantly, be adventurous! I spent my first semester of college living in London, and I was absolutely terrified to go. However, it was the best decision I’ve probably ever made, and this is my third time studying in the UK! Being scared—within reason—is usually a good sign you’re doing something amazing that will test you and allow you to grow as a person. Finally, make the most of your time at ICS! Get involved! The time goes so quickly and you really do get out what YOU put in.”