Why did you apply to Univ?
When choosing an Oxford college to apply to, I relied on student forums, college websites and the Student Union college suggester (part of the SU’s alternative prospectus) as, unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to visit Oxford before applying. From the information I was able to gather from the internet, Univ stood out as an especially friendly college. This was important to me, and since I arrived, I have really appreciated having a college community that is open and welcoming.
Univ also stood out due to its central location, architecture and the large cohort at Univ of other people studying my subject, PPE. To top it all off, Univ has an extraordinary history with fascinating alumni and the prestige of being the oldest college, which sealed the deal and made me fall in love with it!
Why did you choose to study PPE?
I chose to study PPE partly out of a desire to stay interdisciplinary and also out of a fascination for how the world works and why it is as it is. I studied a mix of sciences and humanities at A-Level and was always wary of narrowing down my career options and field of study. I have also always been someone who has kept up with current affairs and was interested in politics and the news. PPE was the perfect balance for me, allowing me to study three distinct but interlinked subjects that would allow me to spend three years learning about crucial questions about the world we live in whilst also keeping my options after my degree open.
What is your favourite part of your course?
In my first term, my favourite topic I studied was Logic as part of the philosophy side of the course. Logic is very much an abstract and theoretical topic to study and very different to anything I had done in school. But, despite it being new to me, I’ve really enjoyed it as it opens a distinct way of thinking and analysing arguments. Problem sheets set weekly have been both challenging and fun to do as you apply the new techniques and methods you have learnt in creative ways. That is not to say, however, that I have not enjoyed the politics and economics side of my course this term though. In fact, the best part of the course has been the opportunity to discuss questions about how the world works and why with my tutors and coursemates across all three subjects.
How did you hear about the Beacon Programme?
I first heard about the Beacon Programme when I received my offer letter in January, and I looked to the Univ website to find out more. There, I found out that Univ was offering 10 Beacon bursaries to help those from backgrounds that typically face barriers going into university. After having looked to see if I fit the criteria and putting my name down, I found out a few weeks later that I was successful and would get the Beacon bursary for my three years at Univ.
Why is the Beacon Programme important to you?
The Beacon Programme is important to me because of what it says about Univ and how it’s creating a real impact for Beacon scholars. The Beacon Programme is an example of Univ, once again, being at the forefront of developing initiatives to widen access and remove barriers for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Univ providing financial support shows how the College is committed to making sure those who have got through the tough admissions process to get an offer should be able to take the offer if they wish without financial reasons holding people back. It’s a progressive means by which Univ is widening access and driving forward inclusion and participation from underrepresented communities in higher education and academia. Beacon also has a real-life impact on those who are part of the programme. Being the first in my family to go to university meant that the high living costs associated came as a real shock, from food to accommodation. Beacon has alleviated that financial stress from myself and my family, meaning I can enjoy my time at Univ without constantly worrying about money.
How have you found the experience of studying at Oxford?
Studying at Oxford has been surreal but exciting! Getting used to a new environment, new people, and a new way of working has been a learning curve, but as I slowly feel myself getting the hang of it, studying here is certainly a dream come true. Being able to chat with people who are as passionate about their subject as you alongside being taught by tutors and academics who are so knowledgeable and interesting is a very unique experience.
Is there anything that has surprised you?
The quirks, traditions and Oxford lingo were a big surprise when I arrived, but I feel more confident in my Oxford jargon after my first term! The independence in learning at university was a big shock too, however finding a good routine and collaboration with other PPE students has certainly helped. Also, the beauty of Oxford and its stunning buildings is a real shock every time you walk around College and the city, being able to study in Univ’s Old Library or the Radcliffe Camera is something I don’t think I’ll ever get used to!
Do you have any advice for prospective students?
My advice for those intending to or deciding whether to apply to Oxford is to go for it! If you have a real and deep interest in a subject and have a love for learning, look at what courses are on offer and put in an application. Ultimately, regardless of the history, traditions and prestige, Oxford is open to everybody and Univ is a testament to that, so don’t let anything hold you back when deciding to apply!
In October 2021, Univ announced the launch of the Univ Beacon Programme, a major new initiative to drive participation and inclusion in education and research. It comprises ten new undergraduate bursaries, two new graduate studentships, and a postdoctoral research fellowship, all targeted at students and researchers who come from backgrounds and communities which are priorities for widening access at the University of Oxford. These priorities include British students with Black African, Black Caribbean, Bangladeshi or Pakistani heritage, members of the Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, care-experienced students, asylum-seekers, and refugees.
Why did you apply to Univ?
