Why Pick Oxford University for Education
Numerous myths and legends circulate about the university, but which ones hold truth?
In June of last year, I finished what might have been the most eventful and captivating three years of my life so far. Attending Oxford had been a dream since my teenage years, and it’s still surreal that my time there has ended. I can recall that October morning in 2023, unpacking and setting up my room, a roomy ’60s flat in Trinity College. I felt a mix of nerves and excitement, wondering what the next three years would bring.
Why Oxford University is Best for Education
In just a few weeks, incoming freshmen at Oxford will embark on their first year, while ambitious sixth-form students will be finalizing their UCAS applications and gearing up for the interview phase.
Oxford University frequently grabs the spotlight in media and popular culture, spawning various myths and legends. As someone who has completed their undergraduate studies there, it’s time to address and dispel some of these stereotypes, shedding light on the experience of being at Oxford.
1. The Experience is Intense and Fast-paced
The academic rigor at Oxford is well-known, with students facing demanding schedules. Humanities majors often juggle multiple lectures and are tasked with submitting one or two 2,000-word essays weekly, each discussed individually with their tutor. Additionally, Collections at the start of each term evaluate previous knowledge. Finals are the ultimate test, involving up to 21 hours of exams over 10 days. With short terms and high workloads, the experience can be exhilarating yet exhausting, requiring a strong work ethic to succeed.
2. Diverse Backgrounds Find a Place to Belong
Let’s debunk a common misconception: Oxford isn’t solely for white, middle-class students. I had friends from diverse ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds, reflecting the university’s inclusive nature. While some colleges may lean conservative, numerous societies and events are supporting LGBTQ+, BAME, and other minority groups. Overall, I found Oxford to be quite liberal, and as a leftist myself, I felt comfortable and accepted. The notion of the “Bullingdon Club” stereotype is largely unfounded; most individuals I encountered didn’t align with such portrayals.
However, it’s undeniable that one’s Oxford experience can be influenced by their financial circumstances. While the university’s basic tuition fees align with many others in the UK (£9,250 annually), fully immersing oneself in Oxford’s social scene—attending white-tie balls, formal dinners, society events, or even casual outings with friends—can incur significant expenses. That said, there are still plenty of enjoyable activities accessible to all students, such as regular formals, college bops, society meetings, or punting on the Cherwell. Yet, it’s inevitable that some of the more extravagant events may be out of reach for students with limited financial means.
3. Embracing the Quirks: Adjusting to Oxford’s Unique Traits
Oxford is undoubtedly peculiar in the most delightful sense. Its distinctive lexicon, featuring terms like “subfusc,” “rustication,” and “sconcing,” often mystifies outsiders. Picture students clad in traditional academic attire, adorned with color-coded carnations for exams, often mistaken by tourists for graduation ceremonies. Dinners consist of three courses served while donning gowns, reminiscent of a scene from a Harry Potter film set, sans the magic (fun fact: Christ Church College doubled as Hogwarts’ staircase). As a freshman, the initial immersion into this surreal environment may feel akin to stepping into the pages of a novel. However, it won’t take long before you seamlessly navigate Oxford’s peculiarities, conversing effortlessly in its unique dialect.
Despite its unique characteristics, much of the Oxford experience mirrors that of any other university. You’ll forge friendships, socialize, contend with hangovers, navigate past relationships, and perhaps even have the occasional mishap with a frozen lasagna, just like any typical 20-year-old student.
4. Living in Oxford: A Fantastic Experience
In my perspective, Oxford holds an enduring charm as an ideal city for students. With a population of around 150,000, it strikes a balance between vibrant urban life and a serene, manageable environment. Its compact size allows for easy navigation by foot, yet it retains a bustling social scene independent of its two universities. Additionally, its proximity to London, just an hour away by train, offers access to the capital’s diverse opportunities. Oxford’s architectural splendor further enhances its appeal, boasting a picturesque town center adorned with Gothic spires, Baroque facades, and elegant Georgian squares. Despite its beauty, the city does grapple with issues like high living costs and homelessness. Nevertheless, for students, Oxford offers an exceptionally enjoyable living experience.
5. Opportunities to Interact with Top-tier Scholars
One of the most rewarding aspects of the Oxford experience is the opportunity for close interaction with esteemed scholars. As a student of Theology & Religion, I had the privilege of attending lectures by renowned figures like Alister McGrath and Diarmaid MacCulloch, whose works are widely respected in academic circles. Additionally, our Sociology of Religion lecturer, Martyn Percy, was referenced in popular literature such as The Da Vinci Code. The intimate size of lectures and the tutorial system fostered personal connections with these academics, enhancing the learning experience. Moreover, the Oxford Union frequently hosts celebrities and notable figures, offering students the chance to engage with them through select meet-and-greet events.
Reflecting on my time at Oxford, I can confidently say it was an experience unlike any other, one that I will hold dear for years to come. Undeniably, it was marked by moments of intense effort and perseverance, particularly during the demanding final weeks of exams. However, such challenges are inherent in the student journey, regardless of the university attended.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely. Oxford offers a captivating and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that can captivate many students. Whether one will enjoy their time there is subjective, but it’s crucial to debunk some misconceptions about the university. From my three years there, I firmly believe that anyone can flourish at Oxford, provided they have a genuine interest in their studies and embrace the unique character of the institution.
