Celebrating Success: Anna Xue

Huge congratulations to Anna Xue (2018, History and Politics) who has recently achieved a first in her final University exams. We asked Anna to share her experience at Pembroke and give some advice for future applicants:

“My time at Pembroke has broadened my horizons, both intellectually and personally. The History and Politics course allowed me to explore diverse and interesting questions every week: from how to realise racial justice in our current society, to the ways that different forms of authoritarianism operate across the Middle East. I have also met amazing tutors and friends from all over the world who constantly inspire me.

Completing my degree during the pandemic certainly brought its challenges. My proudest achievement is attaining 80 on my History thesis, a study of student journalism in 1930s China, which I wrote during lockdown this year.

My favourite place in Pembroke is Farthings, our college café. I fondly remember the many hours I spent there unwinding and catching up with friends, in between the hecticness of Oxford life. Formals in Hall may be the quintessential Pembroke experience, but Farthings is the staple of our community!

For applicants, my advice is to treat the interview process as a valuable learning experience, where you will encounter new topics and ways of thinking. Be curious, be bold in articulating your own perspectives, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.”