Student profile

Name: Olivia-Mae
Subject: History
Hometown and region: Pontefract, West Yorkshire
Qualifications before university (A Levels, IB or equivalent): A Level English Literature, A Level Religious Studies, A Level History

When I’m not working, I enjoy…

Going for long walks around Oxford (of which there is a multitude!), hosting tea-drinking gatherings for my friends, and habitual Sunday practice with our band in the Frewin music room.

What’s the best part of studying at Brasenose?

For me, the best part of studying at Brasenose is the atmosphere here. It’s a perfect blend of old and new, big and small, with a relaxed yet fast-paced environment. As a history student, Brasenose is a fantastic place to study, with its own dedicated history library which caters to all of our reading-list needs. Nothing is too far away as Brasenose is wonderfully central; most libraries are less than a 15 minute walk, with plenty of nearby coffee shops and gardens to serve well-deserved study breaks.

Favourite spot in college?

The best place has got to be the dining hall for me. I do my best to go to meals in hall where I can because its just such a lovely place. Not only is it absolutely beautiful, but its also the place where I do most of my socialising at mealtimes. It’s where I’ll meet my friends after a long day in the library, and we’ll normally stay in there for a good hour just having conversations and catching up. There’s usually a lovely atmospheric bubble in hall, and it really makes me feel like I’m living the ‘Oxford experience’.

What’s your favourite aspect of your course?

There is such a wealth of choice within the history degree here at Oxford. Although there are constraints about which time periods and regions you need to cover, there is always room for finding an area that you’re particularly keen on, even if the paper maybe isn’t on your favourite bit of history. The weekly essay structure of the course means that from week to week the topics vary, and within that framework its very easy to focus on readings that you prefer – nobody will force you to read something you really don’t like!

What would you tell someone thinking about applying?

I would say, although Oxbridge certainly isn’t for everyone, there is no harm in applying. The experience you gain through even the application process itself is so rewarding, and something that other universities and employers will value. And, if you think Oxbridge isn’t for you because of the stereotypes, the cost, or how far south it is… don’t let these things put you off! Much of what students worry about is completely myth, increasingly so these days. The decision to apply should be a personal and academic one.

A quality you think is important for someone looking to study at Oxford?

You absolutely must adore your subject, I think academic passion is the key thing. For how intensive the short terms here are, and how involved students need to be with their degrees, having a true love of your subject will do wonders for the university experience. On top of this, being a hard-worker is definitely a bonus. I think those two things are a pretty good combination of Oxford qualities.