Queen's College, Cambridge - My Application Experience (Expert Cambridge Application Advice)
My application experience was rigorous but crucially surprised me in that I enjoyed the interview stage far more than I expected. In light of this, through the process itself, I was able to gauge whether the Oxbridge teaching system suited my learning style, whilst also being intellectually challenged.
Application experiences will naturally vary from person to person, however for those at the stage of considering applying to Oxbridge, it may prove useful to read what it’s like to go through the process.
Queens’ friendly vibe was evident from the start
I selected Queens’ based on its friendly reputation and pride in its community. My interactions with the college in the early stages of my application confirmed this reputation, as the admissions tutors were incredibly friendly and very willing to answer queries, particularly regarding the History Applications Assessment and submitted essays.
Beyond this, when I arrived, very nervous, for my interviews in December, there was a team of smiley-faced students waiting at the Porters’ Lodge - ready to help in whatever way they could. I was offered a quick tour of the college, and given a map to help me find my way to the different interview rooms. I felt that the students and staff really wanted to help you relax and ensure that your short stay at Queens’ was as enjoyable as it could be, as shown by the fact they asked applicants to fill out feedback forms post-interview to see how they could improve the interview-day experience.
Myth-busting: Interviewers want you to do your best
My first interview revolved around discussion and analysis of primary sources, taken from a period I hadn’t studied, which I was given to look at half an hour before my interview. Contrary to my expectations, my interviewer seemed interested in the ideas I had formulated and through our discussion sought to develop them further. Whilst some people regard the Oxbridge interview as filled with ‘trick-questions’, instead this felt like a taste of the academic dialogue going on at Cambridge. Some of the questions were undeniably challenging, however this didn’t feel interrogative, as instead I got the impression the interviewer was simply helping me to challenge what I’d proposed, and arrive at alternative viewpoints. At least initially there were points in the interview when I felt a little flustered, however it’s important to remember not to worry about arriving at a ‘correct answer’, as the interviewers are far more interested in the thought-process by which you arrive at your answer.
Interviews can be fun!
The structure of my second interview was quite different - focusing on my personal statement and submitted essays. This interview was led by two History fellows, including one I was a pretty huge fan of, and being able to discuss the periods and themes I found interesting with a leading world-expert was really enjoyable. What I found more surprising, is that the fellows seemed to enjoy it too- I felt that they were interested in seeing whether they could bounce ideas off me and how I would respond to different perspectives, as this is a fundamental aspect of weekly supervisions. I left this interview beaming - as regardless of the outcome, I felt very happy to have been able to discuss historical ideas with some big names!
Overall - how you find the experience can act as a good litmus test.
Whilst I was very nervous beforehand, the application experience itself, although testing, was surprisingly enjoyable. Reflecting on this in the month or so after my interviews, whilst waiting to hear from the college about the outcome of my application, I recognised that my enjoyment of the process was a good sign - it showed that I could become accustomed to and genuinely enjoy the method of teaching at Oxbridge. As a result, I found my application process positive - as it allowed me to test myself academically, and learn more about my preferred learning style.
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This article was written by Rebecca (Cambridge - History).
If you find this content useful, please visit Rebecca's profile for further information on applying to Oxbridge. Alternatively, book support now with Rebecca, using the form below.
Author: Rebecca - Cambridge
BA History
From experience I know that advice regarding applications can be unclear, confusing and sometimes contradictory; instead I aim to ensure that the process is as rewarding and enjoyable as possible.
