From Cheltenham to Oxford: A Medicine Student Reflects

Now studying Medicine at the University of Oxford, this Old Cheltonian reflects on the support, opportunities and experiences that helped shape her journey from Cheltenham College to one of the world’s leading universities. From Oxbridge preparation and academic enrichment to sport, leadership and co-curricular life, she shares how her time at College prepared her to embrace everything Oxford has to offer.

From College to University Life

“I would not be where I am without the invaluable support of Cheltenham College throughout my application to Oxford. Miss Coates, the Oxbridge Coordinator, was particularly helpful in making sure I was staying on track with my application and developing my super-curricular interests. I also attended weekly STEM Oxbridge preparation sessions, where those applying to Oxford and Cambridge discussed scientific topics that interested us. Having the chance to think about unfamiliar ideas and discuss them with others gave me much more confidence when approaching difficult questions in my Oxford interviews.

I received more specific support with my application for Medicine, including preparation for the UCAT, personal statement and interviews. My teachers also encouraged me to pursue science beyond my A Levels, including taking part in the Imperial College Schools Science Competition.

The academic environment at College prepared me well for Oxford’s tutorial system. I always felt able to ask questions in lessons and explore topics beyond the syllabus, while teachers regularly introduced more challenging concepts. The weekly student talks in the Science Department were also valuable, particularly in teaching me how to explain scientific ideas clearly to other people.

Life at College was busy, and balancing academics with sport, music, CCF and being a prefect taught me to manage my time well. That has proved especially useful at Oxford, where there is always something going on.

Over my first year, I have really enjoyed the academic side of Medicine at Oxford and getting involved with my college’s Medical Society. I have continued sports that I enjoyed at Cheltenham, such as rowing and hockey, while also trying new sports and becoming captain of my college women’s rugby team. I became one of my college’s ENTZ (entertainment) reps, helping to organise social events, and joined the Oxford University Officers’ Training Corps after enjoying CCF so much at Cheltenham.

Looking back, Cheltenham gave me the confidence to make the most of Oxford, both academically and through everything that happens outside the classroom.”