Ahead of the first-round University Challenge match tonight, captain of the Christ’s team Chris Talbot, studying for a PhD in Materials Science and Metallurgy, tells us about what it like to be quizzed by Jeremy Paxman and what he has learnt from taking part.
What is it like on set?
It was odd at first, the lights are bright and all you can really see behind them is the red light of the live camera. As the quiz started the oddness stopped as we focussed on Jeremy Paxman. He was friendly and supportive throughout the filming; it was an honour to be a part of his final series after so long in the hot seat.
How did you feel?
Before we went into the studio I was incredibly nervous, but my teammates were very helpful and the producers made everything a pleasant experience. As soon as we sat down in studio under the lights the nerves seemed to melt away.
Has covid affected the way that the show is recorded?
The show used to be filmed in front of a live audience but now takes place in a closed studio. We had screens between each of the team members and earpieces to allow us to confer.
What was the most unexpected part of University Challenge?
How easy it was to gel as a team. The team represented people from all over College, Isaac is a first year whilst I’m entering my eighth year at Christ’s! We came together as a team quickly and supported each other and this made practise and filming fun. We even won the odd pub quiz along the way!
What or who was most interesting behind the scenes?
It was lovely to meet Roger Tilling, the voice of University Challenge. The voiceover is performed live and he came over to say hello before recording. Hearing your name said by such an iconic voice was a highlight.
How did you become team captain and what did you learn in that role?
I’ve organised the University Challenge team for Christ’s since 2017 and I’m familiar with the application process. Being captain has taught me a lot about teamwork, the need to know everyone’s strengths when weighing up which answer to give and trusting other people’s answers over your own.
What would you say to students thinking of applying to University Challenge?
I’d say definitely go for it! It’s an incredibly rewarding experience and a place to showcase any obscure and niche knowledge you have!
As well as Chris, the team includes Hollie Wright (Political Thought and Intellectual History); Abhimanyu Gowda (Natural Sciences); and Isaac Jackson, (English). The reserve team member is Billy Howard (Medicine).
Watch University Challenge on Tuesday 25 October on BBC2 at 7.30pm. The match will be available to watch on the iplayer shortly after the broadcast.