From Burntwood School to Oxford University

I'm Rahma, a Year 13 student, and I'll be going to university to study French and Arabic in September (if all goes well!) I put in my university applications in October last year, and, thankfully, I'm able to say that I've received offers from all my university choices! Although the process was long, and waiting was hard, looking back, I had so many people helping me along the way, and I think having the right mindset can help deal with the pressure of applying.

One of the things that motivated me to have high aspirations in the first place is the support I had from my teachers; I honestly wouldn't have applied to the University of Oxford if they hadn't encouraged me to. It gave me that push, and I tried it, because why not? Applying to any uni is already a huge step, and I would have been proud of myself even if I didn't get a place in the end. I tried as hard as I could, but I took everything as a learning opportunity: it's okay if things don't go the way you plan! Be confident in your abilities and reflect on what you took from every experience.

Applying to Oxford meant that I had a few extra steps to do. First, my UCAS application deadline was earlier than everyone else's by a few months, so I had to get working on my personal statement as soon as I came back from the holidays (I'd suggest getting it done as soon as you can because it relieves some of the stress a lot quicker). Once I submitted my application, I had to send in two pieces of written work to Oxford, sit an admissions test for my subject and, finally, attend some interviews for my subject. I had a lot to prepare for, but what kept me going was the thought that I'd done my best, and that was that. 

Throughout the process, I spoke to my teachers who helped me with practice assessments, revision materials and mock interviews. I'm honestly extremely grateful to them for their effort to help me along the way and give me advice when I needed it. If you ever want support for your applications, whether that be for a job, apprenticeship, university or other path, don't hesitate to communicate your feelings because it makes all the difference. 

At the end of all this, I've learned to push myself and go out of my comfort zone; I'm so glad that I made the decision to put in the hard work because it paid off in the end. 

I'm delighted that I've been able to come so far and I'm really looking forward to whatever's coming next. I wish you all the best for your future journeys!