Congratulations! If you're reading this, I'm going to be bold and assume you got the A-Level/IB grades you needed as part of your conditional offer to study at Oxford. Well done! All those hours studying intensively paid off and you've secured a place at the greatest academic institution in the world. But, now that you've made it, what can you expect as a first year or 'fresher'? How can you have the best time, whilst still being productive academically. Here are my three Oxford University freshers tips!
1) Maximize your extracurricular engagements
First year is the perfect time to try out sports or activities for the first time. Naturally, this is also a great way to make friends outside of your college or subject environment. Trying out new things will broaden your social circle and improve your skills and confidence, both of which will be essential as you progress through the challenges of completing your degree.
Also, it's not too early to start thinking about careers and internship opportunities. This is where the Oxford Careers Service comes in - it is absolutely outstanding! From 1:1 appointments for CV reviews and career counselling, to sector/company specific talks and workshops, to exclusive internship opportunities for Oxford students there is always something on offer to help you progress in your desired academic or professional path. Microinternships, often lasting a week, can provide a great insight into your potential career of interest and are a great first step you can take as a fresher towards your professional development.
Your academic burden will never be lower than in your first year - use this time wisely!
2) Be proactive about your learning
One of the key changes from secondary to university level education is the level to which you are responsible for your learning and development. The onus is on you to chase lecturers and your tutors if you don't understand something. From my experience, 99% of academic staff in Oxford are extremely willing to help you with any doubts you may have. Some are happy to take questions during the lecture, others will happily let a queue form after the lecture and discuss for up to half an hour. If you don't feel so comfortable doing that, many are great at replying by email. Often the professor will indicate their preferred method of contact. Sometimes this may mean arranging a specific time to discuss a problem with a good amount of anticipation. Don't let your doubts and questions build up until the end of term!
3) Do not stress about your end of year preliminary exams
Yes, Oxford has exams at the end of first year. No, they do not count towards your final grade. Nor will any future employer really care if you got top marks or barely passed. Their purpose is simply for Oxford University to assess whether you are taking your studies at least somewhat seriously during first year and not spending every evening drunk on someone's kitchen floor. The pass mark? A measly 40%. You got this champ! In the extremely unlikely event you get less than 40%, you have the opportunity to retake. But we know that it won't come to that. The best piece of advice I can give you, however, is simply to just enjoy every single moment. Studying at Oxford is a privilege and an honour. It is a beautiful city with a vibrant, international student and city life. If you are thinking of applying to Oxford for 2024 entry, please get in touch. At Elvis Oxford Admissions and Tutoring, we offer expert personal statement and interview preparation to maximise your chances of success. Book a session today!
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