Robert Mylne (2024, History), JCR President

Robert Mylne is in his second year studying History at Univ. He is also JCR President and oversees the JCR Committee, ensuring that undergraduates are represented and communicating their needs in College.

Why did you choose Univ?
I didn’t do a huge amount of research before applying, but the idea of studying History at the oldest College appealed to me! Univ also had everything I was looking for – a central location, three years of accommodation, and friendly people.

What do you like most about the College?
Despite being well-connected to the rest of the city and the university, the College has a welcoming, peaceful atmosphere that’s largely thanks to the people here. It’s also beautiful, and it’s such a privilege to study and live somewhere with such history and architecture. It’s easy to take for granted!

Why did you choose to study History? Has anything surprised you about the course? 
I knew for a while I wanted to study History, with it being my favourite subject at school. This started with an interest in Scottish history, but my areas of interest have expanded since. The versatility and variety of the course is astonishing, and no-one ends up with exactly the same degree. I’ve particularly enjoyed working with early primary sources, and the tutors have been encouraging in this regard. They’ve also introduced me to periods and areas of history I would never have previously considered.

How do you think you’ve changed since joining Univ?
I’ve changed a huge amount since arriving for the first time. I am far more confident than I was as a fresher, and Univ has helped with that. Learning how to self-motivate has also been a change, with the History degree often requiring days of work without any tutor contact.

Do you have any advice for freshers about settling into life in Oxford?
There’s no “right” way to settle in as a fresher. Although the JCR will put on a variety of events, there’s no pressure to go to everything! Keeping on top of the academic work is the most important thing, and everything else will follow. That said, it’s a great place to move to, so be sure to make the most of what the city and College have to offer!

How do you feel about the coming term?
I’m very much looking forward to getting back. College can feel overwhelmingly busy at times, but the long vac makes you realise how enjoyable it is! I’ll be starting an early modern paper, the period I’ve not touched yet, and it’ll keep me busy. Getting back on the water with UCBC and Oxmas in a few months are also exciting prospects.

What has been your favourite moment at Univ so far?
Having learned to cox in Trinity term, convincingly bumping New College III on the opening day of Summer VIIIs. We missed out on blades, but I loved training with the third boat. It seemed like everyone was at the riverside that week, it’s Oxford at its best!

What do you hope to achieve as JCR President?
I’m aiming to run more events at the beginning of Hilary term, as well as opening up more study spaces across College. Continuing to communicate well with both the student body and the College administration is very important to me, as is making sure all students feel safe, happy, and listened to at Univ.

Describe Univ in three words.
Friendly, innovative, community.