Summary
Jade Franks, a student at the University of Cambridge, faced class-based prejudice during her time there. Despite working as a cleaner to support herself, she succeeded in becoming president of the university's drama group, Footlights, and wrote a play about her experiences. Her play highlights the challenges faced by students from less privileged backgrounds at prestigious universities.
Key Facts
- Jade Franks worked at a call center before attending Cambridge.
- She faced classism, feeling like an outsider due to her working-class background.
- Franks worked secretly as a cleaner and punting company employee to pay rent.
- She initially auditioned unsuccessfully for roles in the Footlights drama group.
- She later became president of Footlights after a change to a democratic election process.
- Franks wrote a play about her Cambridge experience and later found work at the Royal Court Theatre.
- She felt excluded at university events, and her sister was asked to leave a formal dinner due to dress code issues.
