Student Profiles
Charlotte Krass
Charlotte Krass is currently studying for an MPhil in Politics (European Politics and Society), and is a member of Wolfson College. Charlotte grew up in Sydney and gained a Bachelor of International Studies at the University of Sydney. During her undergraduate degree, she spent a semester abroad at Sciences-Po Paris (Paris Institute of Political Science), and has also more recently lived in Hong Kong.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
Oxford’s Department of Politics and International Relations is one of the world’s finest. Completing an MPhil run by world experts alongside a handful of extraordinarily talented students was a long-standing ambition of mine and Oxford’s vibrant learning environment was the ideal place to pursue this goal.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
The city of Oxford’s magic lies behind the sandstone walls of the University’s colleges, libraries and landmarks. Inside, there is an abundance of inspiring people, books, events and activities to discover.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
Contrary to what might be expected, a typical Oxford day does not only involve long hours in the library. There is a broad selection of talks, seminars, concerts and sporting events throughout the term.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I plan to return to Australia to contribute to Australian public policy. The MPhil will help me gain technical expertise and build networks with mentors and other students pursuing similar paths to prepare me for this career.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
The libraries and librarians are impressive. No request goes unanswered and the librarians make a special effort to help new Oxford students navigate the University’s complex and vast resource database. The department staff also offer a wealth of knowledge and support.
Why did you choose your subject of study?
I have a strong interest in French politics and wanted to extend my prior research in a broader European context. The methodological component of the MPhil course was also a driving factor. From a professional point of view, I wanted to focus on Australian/European relations, an important topic that is often overlooked in Australian foreign policy.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Becoming a member of the University is an unparalleled opportunity – one that left a permanent mark on my life from day one. When at Oxford, I would advise other students to make the most of every conversation. You never know what you might learn.
Alex Taylor
Alex Taylor is currently studying for a DPhil in History of Art, and is a member of St Catherine’s College. Alex grew up in Brisbane and was a Clarendon scholar for the MSt he undertook at Oxford before his DPhil.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I chose Oxford for its international reputation, rich intellectual life and great cultural collections.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
There is always something going on, including plenty of non-academic stuff. Decent coffee was an initial challenge - but several good coffee shops have popped up in Oxford over the past couple of years, at which you will always find a gaggle of Australians.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I will continue to work with art - either back in museums, or in an academic role. Ideally, I would like to do a bit of both! At Oxford, I have taught undergraduate tutorials in the history of art and architecture, and last year was able to undertake a fellowship at the Smithsonian Institution, both providing great professional experience for the future.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
History of Art academics are all experts in their fields, but the department is small and accessible enough that students get privileged access to the varied work and diverse approaches of the staff. And across the History faculty, and broader Humanities division, there is rarely a subject without an international authority on hand.
Why did you choose your subject of study?
After roughly a decade of working in cultural institutions, while writing for pleasure in my spare time, I decided that if I was going to pursue graduate study it was about time to do it. Oxford's intensive MSt in History of Art and Visual Culture and the three-year doctoral program were appealing, and there are a variety of funding opportunities available to Australian students.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
I have been singing with the Oxford University Student Chorus - my first time in a choir since high school - a large and thankfully non-auditioned choir with whom I have got to sing in the glorious Sheldonian Theatre.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Oxford doctoral programs give you a very long lead to explore what interests you. If you are passionate about your field of interest, and are motivated to excel, there's no limit to what you can achieve here.
If you haven't been on a bike for a little while, don't wait until you get here to learn again. It's the best way to get around, and I looked like a goose for at least a week - save yourself the embarrassment!
Erin Cutts
Erin is currently studying for the Wellcome Trust DPhil in Structural Biology, and is a member of Wolfson College. Erin grew up in Adelaide, completing a Bachelor in Mathematics and Computer Science and a Bachelor in Science, with honours in Biochemistry at the University of Adelaide. Erin is funded by the Wellcome Trust and the Clarendon Fund.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I came to study in the UK because I have wanted to travel and live in the UK and Europe since I was a child. Initially it was just a fascination with the old world and castles, but later developed into a cultural curiosity, although I still love castles. I applied to Oxford as it has a world known reputation and is a major hub of research and collaboration. The Biochemistry department also has great resources, both in equipment and in people.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University? What is your daily routine like?
I get up, sometimes go to the gym or for a run, ride into town to the biochemistry building and stay there from 9am-5pm (often later). After work, I do a wide range of activities, sometimes more work, but I have also taken dancing lessons, gone to many fancy dinners, seen movies and plays, gone out to pubs, played tennis, gone punting or gone to the student bar.
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
I am the chair of the entertainment society at my college and organised a BOP (a party) where over 400 people came, had a good time and left without any trouble. It was amazing to pull off and was also a fun party to attend.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree and how will your graduate course help you achieve this?
I plan to continue researching by getting a post doctoral position. In addition to my course giving me the required laboratory skills, it has helped me develop my networking skills and introduced me to people in similar fields I may be able to work with in the future.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
Everyone is very friendly, and happy to talk about their work, even though they are all very busy.
Why did you choose your subject of study? Did you choose it based on personal interest or because of career development?
I chose the Wellcome Trust structural biology course based on personal interest, course structure and the scholarship attached. I really enjoy structural biology and this course not only enabled freedom from funding worries, but included rotations in the first year enabling me to try a few different groups and settle in at Oxford.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
Yes, at college I am the chair of the entertainment society, which also makes me a member of the college cultural and social committee and the bar committee. I am also a student representative on the governing body of the college.
Eli Ball
Eli Ball is currently studying for a DPhil in Law, and is a member of Magdalen College. Eli is the President of the Oxford University Australia and New Zealand Society, and is a lecturer at St John's College. Eli grew up in Narrabeen, on Sydney's Northern Beaches and previously studied at Macquarie University, Sydney.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I was motivated by both the quality and prestige of the Bachelor of Civil Law degree, highly regarded as one of the best master’s programmes for law by coursework in the world. This, coupled with the history and collegiate setting of Oxford, made the decision to come to the UK and Oxford an easy one!
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
Like nowhere you have been before. It is soaked in history and the atmosphere during term time is electric. Whether it is in class, at a college social, dining in one of the centuries-old dining halls, playing sport, or working in the library - the place is fantastic.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
If I'm committed to a sport like rowing or swimming, my day starts early – at 6am to be at the river, pool, or lake. But the early starts are worth it to hang out with a great group of people. As a research student I don't have to attend classes (unless I'm teaching them!) so I usually spend my day in one of the many Bodleian libraries. My work is dotted with coffee breaks, lunch, and relaxing talks with friends. I may even be lucky enough to get a call-up to play cricket in an afternoon match for college, or escape onto the river in a punt. The end of the day sees me eating either in college, at home, or in one of the many restaurants or bars around Oxford. There's always time for a quick drink with friends at the end of the day, and if I'm lucky I'll find myself walking home past a moon-lit Radcliffe Camera pinching myself that I'm not dreaming.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
The staff are fantastic: helpful, happy, and always there when you need them!
Why did you choose your subject of study? Did you choose it based on personal interest or because of career development?
Both! I wouldn't stick with my career unless I had a personal interest in it in the first place. After my degree, I plan to head home to Sydney to practice law.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
I'm a member of several college clubs and societies, as well as university ones. Currently I'm the President of the Oxford University Australian and New Zealand Society, and an active member of the Oxford University Australian Rules Football Club.
Have you had the opportunity to do anything traditionally ‘English’?
Punting on the Cherwell River, playing cricket on some fantastic grass pitches, croquet on some amazing lawns amid centuries old buildings, and enjoying a pint of less-than-ideally-chilled beer in a pub that's even older.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
If you have the time, funding, and inclination then do it! As a matter of practical advice, be sure to get all your visas in order early, and once you get here become as actively involved in college life as you can. If you make the decision to apply, then do it with vigour. Remember that spaces for all course are incredibly competitive, and that you're not only competing against the best in Australia, but also the best in the world.
Ashley Kingsborough
Ashley Kingsborough is a chartered environmental engineer currently studying for a DPhil in Geography and the Environment, and is a member of Linacre College. Ashley grew up in Adelaide, completing a BEng in Civil and Environmental Engineering at Adelaide University, and subsequently completing an MSc in Environmental Change and Management at Oxford.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I was fortunate to receive a scholarship from the Sir John Monash Foundation that provided me with the opportunity to apply to any international university to undertake a PhD. The UK has progressed to a relatively advanced stage internationally in terms of its capacity to respond to climate change and I was attracted to Oxford because of the quality of the research that is being undertaken in climate change adaptation at the Environmental Change Institute (ECI), in the School of Geography.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
The city of Oxford is an ideal place to study from a lifestyle and academic perspective. Central Oxford is home to most of the university's departments and colleges, and because of the large number of students and academics living, working and studying in central oxford, the city tends to follow the rhythms of university life.
Oxford's international reputation ensures a diverse range of international leaders and esteemed academics consistently visit Oxford to share their ideas on topical issues of global significance.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
I am based at the ECI and at the moment I am undertaking desk based research, so for me after my morning cycle ride a typical day is spent at my desk. The ECI has a large number of DPhil students so there are many opportunities to interact with other research students all grappling with their own challenges.
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
I have really enjoyed the chance to meet a great range of dynamic and interesting people. Spending time with these new friends has been the highlight of Oxford thus far.
On a warm day, it’s hard to beat a stroll through Port Meadow followed by a visit to one of the great pubs along the Thames or sitting on the banks of the Isis watching the rowing bumps.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I plan on utilising my expertise within a national or international government organisation. A DPhil from Oxford will help to establish myself as an international leader in the field and open the door to exciting future career opportunities.
Have you had the opportunity to do anything traditionally ‘English’?
I have come to know a good number of the historic pubs in Oxford and there is nothing much more traditionally English than enjoying a pint or two of 'real ale' at the end of a week. I have also been able to take advantage of the great road cycling in the rolling countryside to the north of Oxford.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
For most disciplines you won't find a better place in the world to study, so if you have the desire - begin preparing your application, you will not regret the decision.
Michelle Langley
Michelle Langley is currently studying for a DPhil in Archaeology, and is a member of St Cross College. Michelle grew up in Queensland, completing her undergraduate and MPhil degree there.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I have a dual British/Australian citizenship which made Europe an easy option for further study. After completing my undergraduate degree and MPhil in Queensland, I wanted to undertake my final studies at a University with different scholastic traditions and perspectives, and which would broaden my knowledge base. Oxford, as one of the leading universities in the world and a long history in archaeological research, was the obvious university to apply for.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
For an Australian who grew up in the subtropics of Queensland, Oxford is a big change! The city is filled with beautiful and historic stone buildings - all interesting places to take your family when they visit. Everything in the country is within easy driving distance (in an Australian’s mind). The city is always very busy, particularly in the summer when it is filled with tourists, but you can walk everywhere in the city centre, making visiting libraries, colleges, museums and other departments – as well as shops! - no problem.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University? What is your daily routine like?
I like to get into the Institute early, picking up a hot chocolate on my way. The Institute of Archaeology is a several story building with winding staircases, creaking floors and lovely wall paper and ceiling mouldings – exactly the kind of place you imagine. After working at my desk for the morning, I walk to my college for a three course hot lunch with colleagues and friends. In the afternoons I’ll continue work at the Institute or in the Sackler archaeology library before heading to a seminar, then pub to discuss work and then home!
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
Every week there are numerous archaeology seminars series held at the Institute or one of the labs. After each seminar presentation everyone walks to a local pub to discuss the presentation and each other’s current projects. These evenings have introduced me to many interesting people, who have given me advice and ideas for my own work. Several of the presenters were very influential archaeologists who I would not have had the chance to converse with had I not been studying at the Institute.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
After completing my DPhil, I plan to apply for funding for a Postdoctoral position back in Australia to continue my work in Human Origins research. A DPhil from Oxford, and all the experiences I have had here, will help me compete for research grants and academic positions within Universities.
Why did you choose your subject of study?
I knew I wanted to be an archaeologist from the age of 5. Thus, my entire university career has been focused on the study of archaeology (particularly prehistory). Undertaking my DPhil at Oxford was the ‘icing on the cake’ for someone who has always wanted to achieve a doctorate in archaeology.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Make sure you are prepared to be so far away from your family and also for the many little cultural differences between the Australian and English way of life which you don’t get told about. Undertaking study in an institution which has traditions and academic perspectives very different from those you have begun your academic life in is a great way to gain life experience and broaden your knowledge of academia.
Benjamin Daly
Benjamin Daly is currently studying for a DPhil in Zoology, and is a member of Jesus College. Benjamin grew up in Cairns and completed his undergraduate degree at the University of Sydney.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
My supervisor and mentor in Australia had previously been to Oxford and told me about the fantastic opportunities available here. Fortunately, I applied and was shortlisted for an interview. The excellent Sydney University system had prepared me well for this and the stunning lizard fauna of the Simpson Desert that I had worked on undoubtedly made a significant contribution to winning over the interview panel.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
Oxford is colloquially described as a ‘bubble’ because everything is self-contained within a small area, but also because it has its own unique atmosphere that has seen it all. The city and surrounds have an incredible appeal due to the amazing green spaces along the river and surrounding farmland, college quads and university parks, and other parts of the city. The architecture is also impressive and there are examples from all major periods, including some striking new additions that are ahead of their time.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
A typical day involves going into the office to continue my research on avian malaria parasites. This may involve anything from training in a wide range of courses offered by the university, meeting with my supervisors, chatting with other students about work, planning a field trip or undertaking lab work. Often after a hard day’s work we will head to one of the many pubs to unwind.
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
It was a proud moment when I received my Masters Degree at the Sheldonian Theatre and my family had come from Cairns, Australia to celebrate. Other less formal highlights would be getting caught in hailstorm during a rowing outing or punting on a good fine day in summer.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I plan to apply the knowledge and experience I’ve gained during my time in Australia and Oxford toward a diverse range of areas I’m interested in, to make a positive impact and continually challenge myself toward bigger and better things.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
There is such a wealth of knowledge and experience among the staff here that if someone can’t answer your question or help overcome a problem then there is more than likely someone else nearby who can. The other students are an amazing resource and will help each other get through the most difficult stages of each other’s research.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
During my 4 years here I have been involved with the lacrosse, canoe, kayak, and waterpolo clubs as well as college rowing.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Coming to Oxford is the best opportunity I’ve been presented with and has opened up a world of opportunity.
Damien Farine
Damien Farine is studying for a DPhil in Zoology in the Edward Grey Institute of Field Ornithology, and is a member of Wolfson College. He is originally from Canberra, but has also lived in Brisbane, Wollongong and Switzerland.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
The opportunity for me to come to Oxford actually came about purely by chance – my ideas were well aligned with those of my professor at the same time as he was awarded a large grant to undertake this research at Oxford. It was the opportunity to participate in the research group here that drove the decision to move to Oxford.
Why did you choose your subject of study?
I originally chose my undergraduate degree in engineering and computer science for career development prospects. However, I felt that my potential would be better achieved in a field where I am driven by my passion and interests, and now I enjoy every single day I come to work.
After my degree I am hoping to remain in academia, so I will try to get a postdoctoral position in Oxford or elsewhere. Studying in Oxford is certainly providing a springboard for my career by giving me the opportunity to learn amongst many incredibly talented people across all levels.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
As a zoologist it would be difficult to imagine a better place to study than the famous Department of Zoology in Oxford. There is not only a vibrant research community in Oxford, but also a rich heritage of paradigm-changing scientists. Academics here are enthusiastic about research collaborations and are very passionate about their work.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
My days vary greatly as many are spent collecting my experimental data in Wytham Woods whereas others are spent in the office on my computer. My days are interspersed with many fascinating seminars by great speakers and this is one reason why Oxford is a very exciting place to do your research.
How would you describe the city of Oxford?
Most students love Oxford from the moment they arrive here. It is small but vibrant, and within easy reach of London for those that love the big city. Oxford has lots to offer - great pubs, live music, amazing museums, beautiful streets, and great places to eat. It is unlikely that anyone can avoid being caught up with the English way of life in Oxford and a folk night at a local pub is always a great evening. I always feel a part of history whilst cycling among the famous landmarks such as the Radcliffe Camera, Sheldonian Theatre and the grand college facades.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
I was the Blues Captain of the Oxford University Yacht Club for two years. I am proud to say I skippered the Oxford yacht to victory in two varsity matches against Cambridge! This gave me the opportunity to meet people from other departments with whom I shared a keen interest. Oxford has societies and clubs to suit all interests, however many people also find great friendships within their college communities or their departments.
Hugo Batten
Hugo Batten is studying for the Master’s in Public Policy, and has previously studied for an MBA at Oxford. Hugo is originally from Melbourne, and at Oxford is a member of New College.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
I play rugby for the university so there's usually training, or I go for a swim or play tennis on the lawn courts at my college. I try to spend a couple of hours a day in the old libraries to do some general reading. I have three to four hours of class and then a meal in halls, or a pint or two at the King's Arms pub to conclude the day.
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
Beating Cambridge in the rugby at Twickenham was pretty special, and the dinner after at the Oxford/Cambridge Club was superb. The first day I arrived on a golden summer afternoon and went for a run around the centre of town was memorable too.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I'm returning to management consultancy. I think the MBA and MPP will both be incredibly valuable to my work.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
The facilities at both the Said Business School (MBA) and the Blavatnik School of Government (MPP) were excellent. The lecturers were also very, very good. There is a real sense of community and people are very helpful.
Why did you choose your subject of study?
I chose my subject based on personal interest and career development. My two courses both had strong emphasis on economics and regulation which I'm interested in from a theoretical standpoint, but were also practically orientated.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
I played rugby for OURFC and Aussie Rules for OUARFC. I was a member of the Union and got heavily involved at my two colleges, New and Keble (which are both excellent and beautiful colleges). I also joined a wine tasting club, as well as a couple of dining societies. All have been a lot of fun.
Have you had the opportunity to do anything traditionally ‘English’?
I've visited some of the pretty, very British sites around Oxford: Blenhiem Palace, Highclere Castle, the moors of Exmoor, the coast of Devon and Cornwall, and the Cotswolds. I've played a lot of croquet, punted on Oxford's rivers and watched more cricket in the Uni Parks than a graduate student probably should.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
It's a magical experience and there is a great community of nice Australians to share it with. Also, be proactive through the application process.
John Halliday
John Halliday is currently studying for a DPhil in Clinical Medicine through the Nuffield Department of Medicine, and is a member of Linacre College. John grew up in Melbourne, completing his undergraduate degree at the University of Melbourne and subsequently completing specialist medical training through the Royal Australian College of Physicians whilst working in hospitals around Victoria.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I was very fortunate to be offered a position to work at the John Radcliffe Hospital here in Oxford to complete my medical specialist training as a Hepatologist (liver specialist) for one year. Ultimately the history of the city, its beauty and reputation for academic excellence were the deciding points for me.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
Oxford is a beautiful city that is small enough to walk around with ease. It is a really vibrant place to live with a constant stream of activities to enjoy. Christchurch Meadow and Port Meadow are great places to run, picnic and explore.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
My typical day involved an early start to head out rowing for my college around 6.30am, a quick breakfast and then a bike ride to my lab in town for a start around 9am. During the day I would often have to ride up to the John Radcliffe Hospital to see patients involved with our trials or to meet with the research nurses. I had to work pretty hard to get my DPhil done in 2 years so during the last 6 months I would often work from home late into the evenings.
What is your best memory of Oxford so far?
That’s a difficult question! Summer in Oxford is such a wonderful time - everyone comes out of hibernation to party; picnic in the parks; go punting and just explore Oxford’s vibrant streetscape.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree and how will your graduate course help you achieve this?
I’m returning home to Melbourne in a few months time where I will be working as a Hepatology consultant based at Royal Melbourne Hospital. Most of my work will be clinical but I’ll also continue with the more academic side of what I do. The knowledge and expertise I have gained through my studies here should help me obtain funding to perform further research.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
One of the great things about doing research in a university town like Oxford is that when you have an idea that you want to investigate, there is almost always someone else local who is an expert in that area – and my experience was that those experts were always willing to share their thoughts and ideas.
Have you had the opportunity to do anything traditionally ‘English’?
Pub lunches anywhere in the small villages around Oxford always feel very English – sitting by a roaring fire, drinking warm beer in the middle of January while it snows outside – nothing reminds me more of the fact that my wife and I are definitely not living in Australia!
Claire Palmer
Claire is currently studying for a DPhil in International Relations, and is the Junior Dean for Mansfield College. Claire grew up in Sydney, Australia, studying a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons 1)/Bachelor of Laws (Hons 1) at the University of Sydney and also completing an exchange semester to New York University School of Law.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
In my former life, I worked as a solicitor and Judge’s Associate in Sydney, Australia. I applied to Oxford in order to develop my interest and expertise in governance and legal institution-building in post-conflict countries. I was particularly attracted to the small size of the MPhil class, the individualised attention facilitated by Oxford's unique tutorial system, and the exceptional grounding offered by the course in the history and theory of international relations. Since arriving, my research interests have expanded to include the development of new constitutions and mechanisms of accountability for transnational corporations. I'm now completing my DPhil in International Relations.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
It is difficult to imagine a prettier town than Oxford. Architecturally, the city and its surrounds are absolutely beautiful and reflect Oxford's complex history. During term, there is always something to do during the evening due to the plethora of plays, concerts, and talks that fill up the academic calendar.
Can you describe a typical ‘day in the life’ at the University?
My daily routine varies enormously from day-to-day. I am currently a Junior Dean at an Oxford college, so my day usually starts by liaising with students and staff regarding academic, welfare, and disciplinary issues. I also teach International Relations and Law subjects, so one or two days per week might be occupied with tutoring students. I attend various seminars at my Department on a wide range of issues relevant to international relations and law, and am often undertaking some research work for more senior academics. Aside from these activities, I spend my time researching and writing my own DPhil thesis.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I'd like to become a barrister or work in an international organisation. My graduate studies will help me achieve this because I have gained expertise in specific and relevant areas, and I have demonstrated a certain level of discipline, interest, and commitment in the process of obtaining my degree that future employers should appreciate.
Are you a member of any student societies/clubs at Oxford?
Since arriving at Oxford, I have completed fieldwork in East Timor, participated in a university-organised trip to Brussels, and met a wonderful group of colleagues - from all over the world - with a diverse range of backgrounds and interests. I have acted as Speakers' Representative for the Oxford University Australian and New Zealand society, and rowed for one year with my college.
Have you had the opportunity to do anything traditionally ‘English’?
Absolutely! I have visited the beautiful coast in Cornwall, enjoyed country walks in Somerset, and attended many evensong choral performances at Oxford. I have witnessed the British May Day rite of Morris Dancing, punted down the Cherwell (very badly although without getting wet), and attended events at the 2012 London Olympics. I have even talked of popping across to Paris "for the weekend," applauded the Royal Ballet at the Royal Opera House, and seen a Shakespearian play in Stratford-upon-Avon.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Talk to students who have previously completed your course, and have an open mind when applying for colleges. I also would encourage students to become as involved as possible during their time at Oxford. There are many fantastic things to do and see, and these all constitute an important part of the educative experience here. The best thing that you'll take away from Oxford is the friendships that you forge here - invest in those relationships as well as your studies and you won't leave disappointed.
Leonard Wee
Leonard Wee is currently studying for an MSc in Evidence-Based Health Care, and is a member of Kellogg College. Leonard was born in Malaysia and then studied at the University of Western Australia in Perth.
Why did you choose to come to the UK and Oxford in particular?
I came to the UK because I was offered employment with a multinational company which had a position open in the UK office. I am a part-time graduate reading for an MSc while working full-time. Oxford has a well-deserved reputation for being culturally diverse, has a high proportion of international residents, is well connected to the rest of the country, and has an amazing feel.
How would you describe the city of Oxford to a prospective student?
Cosmopolitan. It’s a small town but it contains the biggest ideas and brightest people to be found in the world. If you come here to study, then walking in the footsteps of giants will daunt you and inspire you in equal measure.
What do you plan to do after completing your degree?
I already have work, so finding a job is not the most important thing but I am hoping that the additional study gives me more options to expand into professionally in the future.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
The Department for Continuing Education has been extremely supportive and mindful of the needs of post-grad and/or part-time students. Lectures are designed to fit around busy professional lives, but always remain challenging and relevant to developing higher-level professional skills. Teaching staff are full time researchers and internationally-recognised experts in their area - and they expend a lot of personal effort to make their teaching effective.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other Australian students considering graduate study at Oxford?
You will feel really pushed to sharpen your critical skills and develop a systematic approach to problem-solving. This is different from other courses that might give you the "right" answer first and then work backwards to show you how to get it. So if you want more from study than a boxful of "right answers", then Oxford graduate study is worth considering. Also, invest in a good bicycle or running shoes - inner Oxford is best covered by foot or pedal, this means you'll also get fit very quickly. The people you meet and the networks you form will be invaluable.
Main photograph by Hope Stockton, MSt History of Art and Visual Culture (Kellogg College)