It’s a real treat to bring my friends and family and show off what a wonderful College Oriel is!
What made you decide to study at Oxford?
Oxford is one of the best universities in the world and the facilities here are second to none. Also, as a researcher, Oxford attracts the best of the best in terms of people and supervisors and I was really inspired by the environment this creates! I also did my undergrad at Oxford and loved the city and the collegiate system – it’s a great place and I really wanted to stay on here!
How did you find the application process, and do you have any advice for others preparing to apply?
“I would recommend starting the process as early as possible.”
The application process was fairly smooth for myself. For any research-based course, I would recommend starting the process as early as possible. You’ll want to meet potential supervisors and academics can be a bit slow to respond at times. Make sure you also have all your references sorted as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute stress!
Did you specify a college on your application?
I was at New College before and wanted to change college for my DPhil. I purely just wanted to try something new and meet new people. I think I specified a different college without too much thought but was very happy when I got the offer to come to Oriel College.
What do you think the benefits of the collegiate system are for postgraduate students?
“It’s the best way to meet people who do wildly different subjects and to have a closer-knit community.”
It’s the best way to meet people who do wildly different subjects and to have a closer-knit community. It’s really nice when starting to have a week of scheduled events with the same 80 or so people and it helps a lot to make new friends. It also means people become friends who have different interests and may not have met otherwise. Colleges also have their own facilities such as gyms, bars, squash courts and formals which are super convenient.
What do you enjoy about being a member of Oriel’s MCR community?
“The Oriel MCR put on so many events […] some of my favourite events of my time at Oxford so far!”
The people! I’ve met some lovely friends from all over the world and across every subject. And all of them have been overwhelmingly friendly and accepting. It’s really nice to feel part of a such a close community. The Oriel MCR put on so many events (thanks to the social team!) ranging from Welfare Teas to Special Formals to Live Music Nights in the MCR and everything in between! These events have often been some of my favourite events of my time at Oxford so far!
What do you like the most about being an Orielensis?
Again the people are the best! The facilities at Oriel are also amazing and the college puts on so many great events. I’ve really enjoyed the formals at Oriel too and it’s a real treat to bring my friends and family and show off what a wonderful college Oriel is!