Asking Students "How To Get Into OXFORD UNIVERSITY?" | [Street Interview]

Summary

This transcript features students from the University of Oxford sharing their best advice for gaining admission. They emphasize the importance of passion, confidence, and dedication to your subject. Key advice includes crafting a strong personal statement, securing a knowledgeable recommendation, practicing for interviews, and staying relaxed during the process. They also highlight the value of extracurricular activities and independent research, such as wider reading and creating content. Ultimately, the students stress the need for determination, enthusiasm, and a deep love for the subject you wish to study.

Takeaways

• 😀 Have confidence in yourself and follow your genuine interests when applying to university.
• 😀 Focus on having a strong letter of recommendation from an expert in your chosen field.
• 😀 Your statement of purpose or research proposal should demonstrate deep passion and commitment to your chosen subject.
• 😀 Practice admissions tests consistently, a little bit every day, to improve performance.
• 😀 Be relaxed and authentic during interviews, as tutors are looking to see if they would enjoy teaching you.
• 😀 A strong recommendation letter should reflect not only your academic abilities but also your character and work ethic.
• 😀 When preparing for interviews, try to build a rapport with the interviewers and stay calm.
• 😀 It's important to have a genuine passion for your subject to sustain the rigorous demands of university life.
• 😀 Take advantage of access programs and resources that can help with personal statements, interview prep, and other admissions support.
• 😀 Engage in extracurricular activities that align with your passions, not just to build your CV.
• 😀 Do wider reading beyond the standard curriculum to stay informed on the latest research and developments in your field.

Q & A

What is the best advice for getting into university?

The best advice is to have confidence in yourself and pursue what truly interests you. It's important to follow your passion rather than just reading the books that others recommend. Being genuine in your interests can help in your application process.

What role do recommendation letters play in university applications?

Recommendation letters are crucial, especially for postgraduate applications. It's important that the letter comes from someone who is an expert in the field you plan to research. The letter should reflect both your academic abilities and personal character.

What should be included in a statement of purpose?

A statement of purpose should clearly outline your area of passion and research interests. It’s important to show how enthusiastic you are about the subject and explain why you're motivated to study it for several years.

What advice is given regarding the interview process?

During the interview, it’s important to stay relaxed and be yourself. Tutors are looking for enthusiasm and the ability to engage with the subject. They want to know if they would enjoy teaching you, so showing passion and being authentic is key.

How can you prepare for the university interview?

Preparation should include practicing the admissions tests regularly, being confident in your subject, and staying relaxed during the interview. It helps to engage with the tutors and try to build a rapport with them.

What is the significance of extracurricular activities in university applications?

Extracurricular activities can be helpful but should be pursued for genuine interest, not just to enhance your CV. It’s important to be involved in activities you’re passionate about, as they reflect your commitment and personal interests.

How does the university look at applicants’ academic and personal qualities?

Universities value both academic skills and personal qualities. A strong recommendation letter can highlight not only your work ethic but also your character, which can be crucial during the application and interview process.

What is the role of wider reading in preparing for university admission?

Wider reading is essential, especially in the subjects you are applying for. It helps broaden your knowledge and shows your dedication to the subject. Reading beyond your syllabus, including recent research papers, can help you stand out.

How do you manage the demands of a long-term university course?

To manage the demands of a long-term course, it’s important to have a deep passion for your subject. Being genuinely interested helps you stay motivated and work hard through the years of study.

What is the advice for students applying to scientific programs?

For scientific programs, it’s important to understand the specific entrance requirements, which often include an entrance exam. Doing well in these exams is crucial. Additionally, practice through mock interviews and exams can greatly improve your chances.