My experience studying at the University of Oxford

Generally, what is University of Oxford like?

The University of Oxford is a fantastic place to study! You will be taught by world-class academics and develop a real enthusiasm for your subject. Terms last only eight weeks, so courses are pretty intensive, but if you have good time management skills and a constant desire to learn more, you will thrive in this sort of environment.

What are the facilities like?

The facilities at the University of Oxford are generally great. Most students will have accommodation within their colleges (some must live out in student housing), which is randomly assigned in first year, and subsequently organised through ballots. All colleges have libraries and grand dining halls, and most have bars and cafés for student use. Many also have music practice rooms, which can be rented out at no extra cost.

For extracurricular activities, we have a sports centre (the Iffley Road Sports Complex), located just a short walk from most colleges, as well as boathouses for rowers.

What are the tutors like?

I have been taught by many exceptional tutors over the past few years, and I think that a majority of my peers would say exactly the same. To be taught by academics who are experts in their respective fields is a real privilege, and here at Oxford, we are lucky enough to have (bi)weekly meetings with them to discuss essays and problem sheets we have completed. These meetings are called tutorials, and usually involve one tutor and one to three students. This sort of teaching sets Oxford apart from most UK universities, and is one of the best things about studying there.

Are the lessons easy in University of Oxford?

Oxford is notorious for being a difficult university to study at – indeed, even the applications process is a tricky stage to surpass – but if you are willing to work hard and learn at a quick pace, you will definitely find things manageable. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses, so you may find yourself sailing through one paper, and grappling with another. If you are really struggling, however, there are plenty of people to turn to for guidance.

Does the University organise activities? If so, what are they like?

The University of Oxford organises many activities. From rugby matches, to Poetry Society meetings, to white-tie balls, there are hundreds of ways to spend your free time. There are also a lot of events organised in each college: among others, garden parties, debates, JCR (Junior Common Room, i. e. undergraduate) teas, pub quizzes, and bops (college parties). These activities tend to be great fun, and are the best way to meet like-minded students, and make new friends.

Do you think there is a good quality of teaching?

Yes, the quality of teaching is, for the most part, fantastic at Oxford, and if you work hard, you will really be able to make the most of it. If you do have any problems with particular tutors, or the way that your course is run, there are plenty of people to speak to, who will help you resolve said issues. The University is always looking for honest feedback from its students, so that they can all have the very best learning experience.

Are there any stories you can share?

I have so many stories that I could share from my time studying at Oxford! From fascinating lectures, to essay crises (by which I mean staying up until the morning to finish work), to late night hot chocolate sessions with friends, to afternoons spent sunbathing in my college gardens, to messy club nights, it has been an unforgettable few years. I cannot wait to go back in October and create more amazing memories!