Student Profiles
Shan Huang
Shan Huang is currently studying for a DPhil in Education and has previously completed the MSc in Education Research Methodology at Oxford. She is from the Yunan Province in China and is currently a member of New College. She has previously studied in the UK and in China.
Why did you decide to come to Oxford to study your chosen subject?
I did a Master’s degree at the University of Bristol and after I finished, I decided it was time to do a DPhil. I chose Oxford, because I would like to experience a new environment. The MSc in Educational Research Methodology gave me a good understanding of various research methodologies in social sciences. Moreover, the experience in a collegiate system was quite unique. I’m now researching quality assurance in Higher Education in China, looking at national policy and implementation and the discrepancy between the two.
How would you describe Oxford to a prospective student from China?
I would emphasise its collegiate system, it’s really special in the UK and the world. Being a member of a college is a privilege. The UK, especially when doing my DPhil at Oxford, is very different to China. In China, students are expected to follow their supervisors’ advice. Here I’m expected to challenge my supervisors and defend my own opinion instead of accepting what they tell me – that was a shock! Here I have to look for it myself and make my own decisions about what research to do and which method to use. I am more independent here.
After you received your offer, how did you prepare to come to Oxford?
I thought about what to bring. I had not expected listening and speaking in English could be a problem. Although I did not have difficulties in listening or speaking in academic English, I experienced some difficulties in listening and speaking in daily language, because there isn’t an environment to do that in China. A lot of people in China think you can only learn English by talking to native speakers. I don’t believe this is the case – talk to everyone in English, not just native speakers, and you will really improve!
What is your favourite thing about Oxford?
The dining hall! I love formal hall, punting, all the occasions to meet students from all over the world and also the one-on-one tutorials.
Tell us a bit about your college
At New College, formal hall is offered frequently, so I can bring guests whenever I want. The college itself is beautiful and has one of the best choirs in Oxford. There are lots of social events and we even have our own punts!
What do you want to do when you finish your graduate degree?
My intention is to be an academic, so Oxford has helped me become more qualified to do that! Oxford is a brand that gives graduates advantages, but I believe that we as individuals are still the most important drivers in achieving our goals.
Have you done any extra-curricular activities alongside studying at Oxford?
In my first and second year I was on the committee of OXCSSA, the Oxford Chinese Students & Scholars Association. It’s the second biggest international society at Oxford with 700 members. There are lots of Chinese fellows as well as students here, so we organise events for the whole Chinese community to socialise. I worked on public relationships so looked for sponsorship and communicated with other societies.
I enjoy swimming and there is a beautiful swimming pool here, but I haven’t done any competitions. Oxford is a really nice place to cycle, within the city but also outside in the countryside. I would like to do rowing but it’s too difficult to wake up so early in the morning!
Cissy Li
Cissy Li is studying for an MSc in Music (Musicology), and is a member of New College. Cissy grew up in Beijing and has previously studied at The Conservatorium of Music at Melbourne University.
Why did you decide to come to Oxford to study your chosen subject?
It was mainly due to my research pursuit in German Baroque/Classical music, in particular eighteenth-century keyboard performance practice. The professor I came here for is my teacher’s teacher, and my undergraduate professor recommended him to me. I also wanted to broaden my horizon and expand my knowledge of other research areas including British punk rock.
After you received your offer, how did you prepare to come to Oxford?
I attended a preparation event organised by the Oxford University Society in Victoria, Australia, which annually assembles students who are leaving for Oxford in the same academic year. I was surrounded by other offer-holders, Oxford alumni, and prospective students interested in applying. Immediately I felt a sense of the Oxford community even before I arrived in Oxford. I highly recommend attending similar events where possible, because you can get first-hand tips from those who have studied at Oxford to help you prepare and get the most out of the experience.
As an international student, I was required to attend the International Student Induction in Oxford on the Thursday before the college and department inductions. I remember getting absolutely lost on Cornmarket Street, trying to find my way back to college. Amazingly, I ran into a helpdesk, which was set up by the Oxford Christian Union to help newly arrived international students. I was extremely grateful, as they not only directed me back to where I live but also invited me to a game night in the evening. I made wonderful friends and had a great time on the first day of my Oxford life!
What is your favourite thing about Oxford?
I love the academic environment and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. The diverse postgraduate crowd at Oxford therefore becomes one of my sources of knowledge. Students here are genuinely passionate about and respectful of knowledge, and most of them are not afraid to express their honest opinions. I am also keen on heated political debates that take place frequently.
What are the facilities and staff like within your department?
The Music Department has a group of wonderful professors who are admirably intelligent high-achievers. Their diverse research interests places the department on a highly interdisciplinary level. Our professors are well versed in a broad range of theories and areas beyond what they normally publish in. Unlike the traditional Chinese teacher-student dynamic, professors and students in my department are in a less hierarchical relationship, which makes me feel comfortable discussing or even challenging the tutor’s views during classes and supervision sessions. Apart from the main Bodleian library, our department also has its own large collection of music monographs and journals that can be borrowed by students, which makes research easier.
Tell us a bit about your college
During my stay, the major role that my college plays is in welfare rather than academic study. My College Advisor offers me a great deal of moral and emotional support. He is well connected and resourceful, always signposting me to the relevant staff to talk to when needed. Additionally, the Graduate Tutor is an important College Officer to all postgraduates here, because he oversees our academic progress and is very experienced in dealing with any study difficulties students might have.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Plan, plan, plan! Even for DPhil students, it is extremely important to plan ahead. Also, really try to get feedback by talking to as many people as you can about your project – professors, postdoctorates, fellows. Take the initiative!
Tao Zhao
Programme of study: DPhil Engineering Science
Why did you decide to come to Oxford?
I chose Oxford because of its high reputation and very good academic environment.
What is the best thing about studying at Oxford?
I can meet lots of people with different backgrounds around the campus which is very helpful to lead to a cross culture communication. As for my research work, I have many chances to meet lots of world famous scholars in my research field which is a amazing chance for me.
What does your college mean to you?
It's a good place for social activities.
How did you meet friends here in Oxford?
I usually meet my friends in the college or in the department and also in some events arranged by many students clubs, such as OUSU and OXCSSA.
What is a typical day like for you as a student in Oxford?
My work is doing some research work in my office and I can manage the time myself freely. Indeed, it's a very enjoyable experience to stay in Oxford since I can learn something new every day.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to Oxford?
Just give yourself a chance to apply to Oxford and you can win a very wonderful life experience here.
How would you sum up Oxford in one sentence?
It's a great University in the great city and can give students a great future.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
I was not sure if I can get a place here in Oxford before application. But I tried very hard to apply just because I want to study in this great university and experience the best education in the world. Finally, I succeeded. I have to say, I cannot predict my future for sure. But it's always worth trying and to see what will happen. Maybe that's good for my life.
Meng Liu
Meng Liu is currently studying for the MSc Global Health Science and is a member of St Cross College. Meng is originally from the Hubei Province in China, and previously studied Clinical Medicine at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.
Why did you decide to come to Oxford?
When I was in the 2nd year of my medical degree in China, I realised that I didn’t want to be a clinician. I wanted to change focus to public health, but in my university you can only do this in your 1st year so it was too late. So then I decided to do a master’s degree. I narrowed my choices down to the UK first because the master’s courses here are shorter (only one year) so the total cost would be less. I chose Oxford mainly for the course itself as it provides much broader knowledge about public health and global health compared to public health courses elsewhere.
What were your expectations of Oxford? How much is Oxford different (or similar) to what you expected?
Before I came I did lots of research about the college system and life in the UK, but the whole thing was quite different from what I expected. In my course, I had 5-7 hours of lectures from Monday to Friday, so at the beginning, adapting to a new culture, a new course and a new major at the same time was a challenge.
I also wasn’t expecting exam questions to be so open here. In China, questions are usually very direct with one correct answer but that’s not the case in Oxford!
After you received your offer, how did you prepare to come to Oxford?
Oxford has good support services – I received regular emails and assistance. There’s also a strong Chinese network here, and I found Chinese alumni from Oxford who were very helpful. A Chinese student came to Heathrow when I first arrived to pick me up so I wouldn’t get lost – the Chinese students help each other!
What is your favourite thing about Oxford?
Diversity – there are 21 students on my course from 13 different countries. The 5 residents in my house are from 4 different continents. You learn more from your colleagues than from a textbook. We share our opinions and personal experiences of our own national health systems with each other. A good example is that when I was taking a lecture about malaria – this disease isn’t common in Hubei province where I’m from, so some students from Africa told me about their real experiences of it and its terrible impact on health systems and this deepened my understanding.
Before there were always specific answers to questions but here there is no right answer. Oxford guides you to think in different ways. In Oxford, I analyse everything and compare the advantages and disadvantages.
What’s the main piece of advice you would give to other students considering graduate study at Oxford?
Have self-confidence; don’t think that it’s a mistake you’re here. Everyone is very clever and there’s lots of peer pressure to do well, but don’t doubt yourself. Believe that Oxford made the right decision by picking you!
Tiantian Jia
Programme: DPhil Inorganic Chemistry
Why did you decide to come to Oxford?
I decided to come to Oxford because of its outstanding reputation for academic excellence. Chemistry is one of the strongest subjects in Oxford with international research and topnotch facilities. I think the 3 year DPhil program in Oxford can give me systematic and comprehensive training.
Not just Chemistry, Oxford is also famous in other subjects, like Anatomy and Physiology, Anthropology, Biosciences, Mathematics, Economics, Law, Engineering, Politics, Psychology, and so on. If you are interested in other subjects, you can choose relevant courses or attend the public seminars and lectures. This means you can be taught by the world-leading academics and meet the talented students in different subjects.
What is the best thing about studying at Oxford?
So far, the best thing about studying at Oxford is meeting the outstanding people with different backgrounds, interests and personality. For example, I have 5 colleagues sharing the office in my department and I am often inspired by their methods and suggestions in conducting research. My three housemates are all postgraduates at Oxford University from UK, Vietnam and Burma respectively. We always gather together to talk about cultures, histories, our subjects and many other interesting things. Wherever you turn in Oxford, you can always meet brilliant and funny people.
What does your college mean to you?
College is like a friendly home providing accommodations and foods, and organizing social activities. In the Freshers' week, my college organizes a variety of activities such as Green Jumble Sale, film night, cocktail party, Sexy Sub Fusc Bop and etc. These activities make it easier to meet friends and settle in.
How did you meet friends here in Oxford?
Generally, I meet friends in my college, department and societies. College is a social hub with its own bar and common room. By spending much time there, I get to know more about friends in my college. Exchange dinner in different colleges is a good chance to meet new friends and know other colleges. In addition, there are many student societies which present at the Freshers' Fair every year. Joining student societies is another great opportunity to get involved in university life. You can easily find friends with the same interest in various societies.
What is a typical day like for you as a student in Oxford?
As a 1st year DPhil student, I spend most time in doing experiment and literature review. Normally I go to my office around 9am, and work in the lab until 1pm before grabbing a lunch in the department café or college hall. In the afternoon, I will continue the lab work or discuss the progress with my supervisor or attend the weekly seminar. I usually finish the lab work around 6pm, and then go to my college for dinner and other social activities (like wine tasting, party, and etc) in the MCR.
What do you see yourself doing when you leave Oxford?
I don't have a clear plan currently as everything changes faster than planned. But I hope to have grown enough and acquire a unique preparation for a successful career after three-year training in Oxford.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to Oxford?
Choose your college carefully. The collegiate system at Oxford makes it different from other universities in UK. There are more than 30 colleges for you to compare and choose. They are different in age, facilities, location, accommodation, financial support and so on. The college is an important part of your Oxford life, so find as much information as possible in the website or by talking to current students and just pick the college you like mostly.
How would you sum up Oxford in one sentence?
It would be a wonderful experience to study and live in Oxford.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
Don't give up applying for Oxford by considering you are not genius. You will never know your potential if you don't give it a try. If you have a passion in your subject and have the confidence to do well at the university, you are more than 50% of the way there.
Yuheng Ren
Programme: DPhil Engineering Science
Why did you decide to come to Oxford?
First reason that I chose to come to Oxford is that my research group at Oxford is among the best in the world. Many of the works in our lab are state-of-the-art in the computer vision field. Besides, Oxford has long been a dream school for me; its reputation has long attracted me as well.
What is the best thing about studying at Oxford?
The innovative and productive research environment and Oxford's unique traditions.
What does your college mean to you?
My college (Oriel College) provides me with a platform to communicate and cooperate with students with different background. It has made cross-field interaction much easier. It's also a great place to make friends.
How did you meet friends here in Oxford?
I met almost all my Chinese friends from Oxford Chinese Students & Scholars Association (OxCSSA), while I also made quite a lot foreign friends in my college and research group.
What is a typical day like for you as a student in Oxford?
For weekdays, as a research student, I got up quite early in the morning, cycle to my lab after lunch, then work for a whole day in the lab till around 6pm. An interesting habit of our research group is that we will have a coffee break at around 10:30am, during that time the whole group will move to the common room in the department and have some chit-chat while drinking coffee. This part is always quite fun. After I finish my dinner at home, I sometimes go to talks organized by OxCSSA, sometimes play a bit squash in the college squash court or just stay at home.
What do you see yourself doing when you leave Oxford?
I haven't got an clear idea of my future career so far, but two paths are possible: 1) continue to do some interesting research as a faculty in university or as a research engineer in industry; or 2) try to start up my own company.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking of applying to Oxford?
If you are applying for a D.phil program, you better apply early, so that you won't miss the scholarship application deadline. Also if you are writing your research proposal for your application, you'd better understand every detail you mentioned in the proposal, otherwise your admission interview will be difficult.
How would you sum up Oxford in one sentence?
Oxford is worthy of its reputation, It's a university that's worth spending 3 years studying in.
Is there anything else you would like to say?
As a Chinese student, Oxford Chinese Students & Scholars Association is really helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, let them know.
Main photograph by Hope Stockton, MSt History of Art and Visual Culture (Kellogg College)