I remember the whirlwind of emotions I felt on results day when I found out I was actually going to Cambridge: shock, then excitement, then gratitude – then fear.
Like many students, I had heard myths of the unmanageable workload, and was slightly daunted by the prospect of moving away from my friends and family. As the start of the new academic year is fast approaching, here are some useful tips on getting off to a good start at Oxbridge.
1. Read, but also relax
The summer before you head off to university is a great time to read around your subject for genuine enjoyment. Check if your college has given you a reading list for your subject over the summer – although if, like me, you only discover this reading list the night before you move away, then don’t panic! While they are useful guides, some reading lists may not be absolutely essential.
However, it is also incredibly important to take time to enjoy your summer holidays and properly relax, especially after the stresses of A levels. As the terms at Oxbridge are very short, they are also very intense, so it’s good to arrive at university feeling refreshed and ready for the term ahead.
2. Don't compare yourself with others
While it may be tempting to compare your work to that of others, don’t allow yourself to become disheartened. Many students arrive at Oxbridge having been one of the highest-achieving pupils in their school at home, and so may struggle when they are no longer top of the class at university; the “big fish in a small pond” effect. It’s important to remember that you deserve to be here just as much as everyone else, and to resist the temptation to compare yourself with others.
3. Get to know your new home
Familiarising yourself with the city you’ll be living in is key to feeling comfortable when you arrive at the start of the year. I’d recommend taking a trip to Oxford or Cambridge during the summer if you can – knowing where to find the nearest shops, cafes, supermarkets and pharmacies can be really useful, especially in case of any emergencies.
4. Push yourself to meet new people
University is a great time to meet interesting people who have the same passion for their subject as you do. I’d encourage you to spend time getting to know new people, whether that be through your college, course or social events run by the university, even if that means straying out of your comfort zone.
While you will naturally gravitate towards certain people at the beginning, make an active effort to get to know lots of people, as those you meet first might not end up being your closest friends in the long run. Societies can be a great way of meeting new people with similar interests, although it is also useful not to overcommit yourself. You can always join more societies in later years when you are more settled.
5. It’s OK not to be OK
Making new friends, studying in a new way and living in a different environment can inevitably be difficult for many people. Don’t forget to make the most of the pastoral care available to you, including your college counsellor, nurse, welfare officers and welfare events at your college. For me, these included free head massages and cuddling therapy dogs!
These support systems are there to help you, so make use of them if you feel it could help you. Going to Oxbridge can be a really rewarding experience and some of the most enjoyable years of your life, so make the most of it.
Chloe Annetts is a student at the University of Cambridge
