Student story: Finding space for Kosovo at Oxford

The journey so far 

"I was born and raised in London, and grew up very aware that I have access to opportunities my parents, who came to the UK as refugees, never had or could never have imagined. War stole their youth, and they lived in a society where discussing Kosovo’s history and politics was forbidden and Albanian academics eventually became banned from institutions during the 90s. The idea that I am now bringing Kosovo’s history, politics, and perspectives into a prestigious university like Oxford, carrying forward the knowledge and conversations my parents were denied, is something my parents could never have imagined. This, however, has only inspired me to create spaces where these stories can be shared, celebrated, and connected to academic discussion, which led me to establish the Albanian Society last term.

Creating a space for Kosovo at Oxford

I founded the Albanian Society, the first society of its kind at Oxford. Our mission is to provide a platform for students to engage with Kosovo-Albanian politics, history, and culture. Through talks, debates, and social events, we bring these topics to life while fostering a community where diaspora voices, experiences, and ideas are celebrated and shared with everyone interested. As part of this mission, we as a society also intend on hosting a Kosovo’s Independence Day exhibition at Oxford. The exhibition will showcase historical materials and personal testimonies from the war, providing students and the wider university community with an opportunity to engage with the history, resilience, and stories of the Kosovo war. This event reflects the society’s very purpose, to bridge lived experience with academic discussion and establish a place for Kosovo within the University.

Connecting personal experience and academic ambition

Growing up in London and witnessing my family’s journey as refugees has shaped how I approach European politics. I am drawn to exploring migration, minority rights, post-conflict governance, and diaspora perspectives, not as abstract concepts, but as lived realities affecting families like mine. Oxford has allowed me to combine this personal insight with rigorous academic study and to contribute to discussions that are often absent from mainstream European politics programmes.

Looking ahead

I hope to continue researching Kosovo and European politics, highlighting diaspora voices and post-conflict issues while fostering spaces for underrepresented perspectives. I also hope the Albanian Society continues to thrive even after I leave Oxford, inspiring future students to explore their heritage, contribute academically, and make their voices heard.

Advice for others

If you come from an underrepresented background, embrace your perspective, create your own space, and never underestimate your ability to enter spaces that once seemed inaccessible. Build on high-quality sources and let your experiences inform your academic contributions. Representation matters, and your voice can shape the academic and social communities around you. A university like Oxford is not only accessible to those who are persistent and curious but it also enriched by the unique stories, experiences, and initiatives you bring."

Oxford student Doruntina Aruqaj in the grounds of an Oxford college.