Student story: everyone from every background belongs at Oxford

Tell us about yourself  

I am about to start, in October, my penultimate year pursuing a BA in Theology and Religion at Mansfield College.

I am from Essex and would describe myself as a principled rebel who is curious about everything from Astrophysics and Zoology.

What has your time at Oxford been like?  

It is hard to express and articulate just how incredible of an adventure my time at Oxford University has been. I would have never thought people like me would ever have a shot at a place like Oxford but what I have learnt from my first year is that everyone from every background belongs at Oxford.

I have loved every moment studying and living at Mansfield College. It is my very, very biased view definitely the best college at college at Oxford, not only in terms of its ambition and spirit of audacity, but in terms of its emphasis on community and inclusion. There are always people there -- be it fellow students, professors, or members of the Welfare team -- to guide you through any challenge you may face.

Studying Theology and Religion has been concomitantly the most academically stimulating and challenging experience in my life. Theology and Religion encompasses everything from politics to philosophy and from linguistics to literature. I think if I was to write about everything I have learnt in just my first year it would be 2027 by the time I would have finished writing this. What really excites me about my degree is how forward-facing it is, as well as looking to the past for answers in areas such as the science of Religion you can grapple with the theological implications of AI, Freudian psychology and cybernetic immortality. Theology can shape the future in equal measure as it defines the past.

What are you involved in outside of your studies?  

Outside my studies I am involved in competitive debating, participating, adjudicating and running debate completions for university students and for young and up-and-coming debaters. The high-stakes thrill of having to reach for a solution or deconstruct your opponent’s argument with only seconds left is something that will never leave me.

As well as being the Men's Officer and member of the Junior Common Room for Mansfield College, I am incredibly honoured to be the current elected President of Oxford University's Neurodiversity society (Neuroinfinity), representing and advocating for the interests of the Neurodivergent student population at Oxford. I work with the best committee in the world and I am very excited to welcome Freshers to the society this autumn.

How did you get involved and what has it brought to your Oxford experience?

As someone who is neurodivergent, the Neuroinfinity was somewhere I always felt drawn to. It has a great sense of community and camaraderie, so even in your most difficult moments you know there are people to help and support you.

The responsibility of leading a diverse team of people to support neurodiverse students through hosting events like the make-a-friend, bring-a-friend picnic is always something that I am conscious of but that responsibility for is a joy that I would not exchange for anything. My experience at Oxford is all the richer and more vibrant knowing that I am part of such an amazing and supportive group of people who are always there for each other no matter what. 

What are your future aspirations for yourself?  

Above all, I aspire to be true to who I am. To always be curious, principled, to try to think differently and to always be willing to fight for what I believe in.

I am really looking forward to continuing my journey across the ocean of Theology and Religion and in particular exploring the theological questions raised by the advent of AI and the relentless march of technology.

I am also hoping to establish a career in Finance or Law so that I can achieve a positive impact not only upon my community but hopefully upon the world.

What opportunities are there for other students to get involved?

Oxford University Neurodiversity society is always open, from participating in our online community, to attending events. Everyone is always welcome to join our community, which is built around inclusion support and respect. We currently have a few vacant positions on the executive committee so definitely get in touch if you would like to help us make Oxford an even better and inclusive place for neurodivergent people! 

 Support for neurodivergent students at Oxford is available from Student Welfare and Support Services. Find resources on our dedicated webpage, explore experiences of disabled students, or get involved with Neuroinfinity.