My First Term at Oxford - Julija
I am from London and I am studying English Language and Literature with Foundation Year at Mansfield College.
Inside the Radcliffe Camera
What aspects of the course are you enjoying?
For some of the modules on the course, Humanities students are grouped together, making for a fascinating learning environment. This is one of the aspects I strongly enjoy as each student approaches a topic through the lens of a different discipline, resulting in fascinating discussions both during and outside of studies.
What aspects of the course are you finding challenging?
After a long summer break with little academic work and deadlines, the need to maintain organisation and establish a routine to ensure your own success becomes apparent within the first few weeks of term. This is to be expected, but the first few weeks are vital in establishing a routine and maintaining organisation so that you do not fall behind. While this becomes a habit as the term goes on, at the beginning the pressure feels intense, especially in an academically rigorous setting such as Oxford.
What does a typical week in your first term look like?
My typical week consists of two classes and one tutorial, for which I must write an essay. Alongside this, there are Preparation for Undergraduate Study sessions, as well as other events which students can attend. The time which is not taken up by scheduled events or classes is spent completing pre-reading, working on my next essay or revising for a language class.
How are you managing your studies and free time?
For me, balancing studies and free time relies hugely on planning. Given that most of my peers are also students at university, planning things to do means that we don’t waste precious time and that we also have something to look forward to. I have found that making myself a timetable enables me to function optimally.
Mansfield College at night
What have you enjoyed doing outside of your studies?
I spend most of my time outside of studies with my peers, whether this is includes taking walks through the city, University Parks, or heading to the cinema. Alongside this, I attend many of the JCR events organised in college. This varies from dropping into the writing group or attending the termly ‘Cakes and Compliments’ event to get to know new people! The JCR is a huge advantage, meaning that there is always something to do in college to take a break from your studies.
What do you think of Oxford as a city?
As someone coming from a busy city such as London, the convenience of Oxford is apparent to me every day. It is hugely walkable, and most routes are quite scenic! You can also visit the Botanical Gardens or see a play at the Playhouse however, given that walking is hugely beneficial (particularly after a study session or just to clear your head) the layout of Oxford is perfect for just this.
What do you think of your college?
Despite Mansfield being one of the smaller colleges, there are many upsides to this, making college a tightly knit community which radiates warmth and cosiness. The spaces in college (such as libraries, JCR, or the college café) mean that at any point you can spend some time outside of your room and take a well-deserved break or change your study scenery.
What is your highlight of the first term?
Speaking with other Mansfield Freshers at a dinner during first week and establishing newfound connections. Meeting new people (that I’d be living so closely to) was a highlight for me as it makes college feel more welcoming, and it is always pleasant to see familiar faces around.
What are you looking forward to next term?
Joining new clubs and attending more society events, especially now that I feel a lot more settled in. I am also looking forward to focus more on subject specific projects and exploring several other libraries we have access to.
A view of the College Chapel from the main building at Mansfield
Mansfield College cat
