Studying At Oxford University: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Before I Started

Oxford University is consistently ranked the first in the UK and fifth in the world. The Oxford experience is seen by many as one of the best educations in the world.

How to Prepare

As someone who's just started studying at Oxford, there are a few things I wish I'd known before I started. Firstly, although the course material is interesting, it can be quite challenging. There are a lot of essays to write and exams to study for, so it's important to be organised and give yourself enough time to do them justice. Secondly, the city of Oxford itself is really beautiful, but it can also be quite student-y and party-oriented, so if you're looking for a more laidback environment you might want to look elsewhere. Finally, while the people here are generally friendly and welcoming, there can be a bit of an 'old boys club' mentality among some of the students, so don't be afraid to speak up and make your voice heard!

Where To Live

There are a few different things to consider when it comes to finding somewhere to live during your time at Oxford University. The first is whether you want to live in college accommodation or private housing. College accommodation is usually reserved for first-year students, but some colleges also have rooms available for upper-year students and graduate students. Private housing options include renting a room in a house or flat, or living in a student hall of residence.

If you're considering private housing, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, be aware of the difference between bills included and bills not included properties - this can make a big difference to your monthly budget! Secondly, think about whether you would prefer to live in a house or flat with other students, or whether you would prefer your own space. And finally, make sure you research the different areas of Oxford before making your decision - each has its own unique atmosphere.

If you have any questions about finding somewhere to live during your time at Oxford University, don't hesitate to ask the Student advice team for help!

Student Activities

As an American student studying at Oxford, there are a few things I wish I'd known before I started. For one, the academic year is structured differently than in the States. Instead of semesters, there are three eight-week terms. This means that you have to be very mindful of your time and how you spend it. There is little to no time for extracurriculars or part-time jobs.

Another big difference is that most classes are conducted as tutorials. This means that you meet one-on-one or in very small groups with your professor to discuss the readings for that week. It sounds great in theory, but can be a bit daunting (and scary) in practice. But don't worry, you'll get used to it!

Lastly, living expenses can be quite high in Oxford. Make sure you budget accordingly and plan for things like food, housing, and transportation costs.

Safety

The first thing you should do when you arrive at your accommodation is to familiarise yourself with the fire exits and evacuation procedure. Your college will have regular fire drills so it is important to know what to do in the event of a fire.

It is also a good idea to get to know your neighbours and let them know if you are going to be away for any period of time. They will be able to keep an eye on your belongings and help you if you need anything while you are away.

Oxford is generally a very safe city but there are areas that you should avoid, especially at night. If you are unsure about an area, ask a local or your college porter for advice.

Social Life and Party Scene

As an international student studying at Oxford University, one of the things I was most looking forward to was experiencing the social life and party scene that the city is so famous for. Unfortunately, I was in for a bit of a shock when I arrived.

For starters, the party scene here is nothing like what you see in the movies. There are no huge fraternity houses or wild college parties to speak of. Instead, most socialising takes place in local pubs and clubs.

And while there are some great nightspots in Oxford, they can be quite expensive if you're not careful. So if you're looking to save some money, it's worth checking out some of the free events and activities that the university offers.

One thing I will say about the social life here is that it is very different from what I'm used to back home. Everyone seems to be really friendly and relaxed, which takes some getting used to!

Choosing Classes

When it comes to choosing classes at Oxford, there are a few things that you should keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure that you consult with your tutor before making any decisions. They will be able to help you choose classes that are best suited for your level of study and interests.

In addition, don't be afraid to explore different subjects. Oxford offers a wide variety of courses, so take the time to browse through the options and see what catches your eye. You may find that you're interested in a subject that you never would have considered before!

Finally, don't wait until the last minute to make your decision. The sooner you choose your classes, the better prepared you'll be for the start of term. So take your time, consult with your tutor, and explore all of your options before making a decision.

Finances and Money Management

One of the biggest challenges of studying at Oxford is managing your finances. The cost of living in Oxford is high, and tuition fees are also expensive. It is important to budget carefully and make sure you have enough money to cover all your expenses.

There are a number of ways to save money while studying at Oxford. One way is to find affordable accommodation. There are many student accommodation options available, including hostels, homestays, and shared flats. Another way to save money is to cook your own meals rather than eating out all the time. And finally, you can save on travel costs by taking advantage of public transport discounts for students.

When it comes to money management, it is important to remember that you are responsible for your own finances. This means keeping track of your income and expenditure, and making sure you don't overspend. There are many helpful resources available to help you with this, including budgeting apps and online financial advice services.

My time at Oxford University was some of the best years of my life. If I could go back and give myself some advice, these are the 10 things I would tell myself:

1. Make the most of your time here – there's so much to see and do!

2. Get involved in as many activities as possible – you'll meet some great people and have some amazing experiences.

3. Don't be afraid to ask for help – everyone struggles at times, so don't be too proud to reach out to your friends or tutors when you need assistance.

4. Embrace the workload – it might be daunting at first, but if you approach it with a positive attitude you'll find that it's actually quite manageable (and often strangely satisfying!).

5. Take advantage of all the resources available to you – from the libraries to the careers services, make use of everything that Oxford has to offer.

6. Be prepared for change – things will happen that you didn't expect, but try to go with the flow and trust that it will all work out in the end.

7. Cherish your memories – whether they're good or bad, they're yours and they'll stay with you

I hope this article has given you some insights into what it's like to study at Oxford University. If you're thinking of applying, I would encourage you to explore the university and the city for yourself and to speak to current students about their experiences. It's a truly wonderful place to live and learn, and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to study here.