Through support from the Alan Jones fund, I am delighted to be able to say that I stayed in Rabat, the modern and quite lovely capital of Morocco for three weeks. There, I completed a one-on-one advanced Arabic course at the Center for Cross-Cultural Learning, a quaint yet stunning language insitute tucked away at the edge of Rabat’s labyrinthic medina. The fund meant that I could afford these one-on-one classes, something which has been invaluable for going into my final year of a French and Arabic degree.

In allowing myself to fully engage in the topic, including meeting with some of the leading researchers in the field, I found the sense of work greatly diminished. 

The funding we received from Tutorials Plus and the Picot Prize helped finance a trip to Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal, during September 2022. We both loved our time in Lisbon and it hugely enriched our learning. Our language skills improved, especially our confidence in speaking, and we really got to know the city well.

My time at Pembroke was truly exceptional. While the College offered unwavering academic support, it's the memories of great friendships, spirited Mario Kart tournaments, and invigorating rowing outings that remain etched in my mind. These experiences enriched my journey, making it an unforgettable chapter of my life.

My main advice to those who feel they don’t match the “typical Oxford student” is to continue to engage with reading on your subject that interests you, and keep pushing yourself. If you can, apply to the outreach support that you have available to you – even if it’s online, it can really help.

Pembroke is a beautiful college tucked right in the centre of Oxford, and it’s a friendly and welcoming environment where state-schoolers and other students from underrepresented backgrounds are looked after and supported.

I went to a state school which didn’t offer any of the subjects I study now, and so despite thinking I would stick out like a sore thumb at Oxford, I’ve enjoyed everything it has thrown at me. Whatever your apprehensions about Oxford, I’m here to reassure you that shouldn’t let any of them warrant not applying. And no – it's not just full of posh people!