What really sets Exeter apart from other colleges is ExVac, which is an Exeter charity where we take underprivileged children on holiday for a week to allow them to get away from the stresses of home. It’s something that Exeter should be really proud of – it’s a unique programme which really encourages active involvement in Oxford’s community.
The elected representatives of the Junior Common Room try to take the views of the whole student body, and then take them to the College to explain why we think something should be done differently. It’s good fun! You feel like you’re making a tangible difference and get to be involved with some of the decisions that affect students’ lives.
Living in the graduate accommodation at Exeter House means you immediately become part of the Exeter family and provides a brilliant way to get to know the other people in college and make friends from beyond your course. The Exeter MCR is also excellent at organising social events to suit all tastes and ensuring that the graduate students feel just as integrated into college life as the undergraduates.
I first started thinking about applying to Oxford in Year 12 when I was prompted by a teacher, and after attending the UNIQ summer school I was sure I wanted to apply. Choosing my course was initially quite difficult. However, when I did PPE at UNIQ I really enjoyed the way it was taught and it was the perfect mix of subjects for me.
Coming to Oxford from China was the best decision in my life so far. It has taught me to focus on cultivating and improving my core competitiveness.
I frequently attend the Rector's Seminars, where many academics and leading figures in politics and industry come and share their views on either historical or current hot issues.
I have experienced lively exchanges of ideas which are vital skills in the build-up of my future career – critical thinking, effective and persuasive communication and always being ready to take on a challenge!
Exeter is a community where I frequently have the opportunity to critically engage in intellectually stimulating dialogue with peers from around the world.
The decision to apply to Oxford was borne out of a combination of me trying to be the best I can be, whilst trying to reach that next step. Oxford is challenging but it’s good to be in an environment that allows you to feel challenged, but keeps you motivated, being surrounded by other motivated people.
“Many have gone on to do important scientific work but all remember those wonderful times when we and our science were young and our excitement in meeting new challenges knew no bounds.”
