More Than Just Studying: How Brasenose Became Home
Arriving at Brasenose for my first term was a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, curiosity, and a fair bit of nervousness. I was eager to embrace the opportunities Oxford had to offer but unsure of how I’d adjust to the new academic and social environment. Now, looking back, I can confidently say that my first term has been an incredible journey of growth, discovery, and memorable experiences.
From the very start, the sense of community at Brasenose was impossible to miss. The JCR (Junior Common Room) quickly became one of my favourite places on campus. It’s more than just a common space; it’s where people naturally come together. Whether it’s relaxing with a casual game of pool or joining in the excitement around the newly added table tennis table, there’s always something happening. During Freshers’ Week, the JCR was where I met so many new people, some of whom have become my closest friends. It’s the heart of college life, where spontaneous chats often turn into lasting friendships and where there’s always something to get involved in.
Beyond the college walls, Oxford offers an endless variety of ways to get involved. I’ve loved the chance to explore so many different societies. Joining the Oxford India Society helped me stay connected to my cultural roots and meet people with similar backgrounds, while playing Ice Hockey was a completely new and thrilling experience that pushed me out of my comfort zone. The best part is that there’s always something exciting going on, whether it’s a college event or a university-wide society gathering—there’s truly something for everyone.
Brasenose’s location has been another highlight. Being right in the heart of Oxford, next to the Radcliffe Camera, means that everything I need is just a short walk away. I haven’t had to walk more than 30 minutes to get anywhere all term, which has made balancing academics and social life so much easier. Whether it’s running to lectures, meeting friends, or grabbing a quick snack, everything feels close and accessible.
What really sets university life apart from sixth form is being immersed in it 24/7. At school, there was a clear divide between studying and home life, but here, everything blends together. Being constantly surrounded by friends, college events, and academic work makes the experience so much more engaging and rewarding. Whether it’s late-night study sessions, spontaneous hangouts in the college bar, or bumping into friends around college, there’s always something happening. That constant energy makes Oxford feel so alive.
Academically, I was initially a bit intimidated by the idea of tutorials and the workload, but I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how supportive the environment is. Tutorials are much less intimidating than I imagined—they’re actually a great space to explore ideas and ask questions. Labs, although long and sometimes exhausting, have been really interesting and hands-on, helping me apply what I’ve learned in practical ways. The workload can definitely pile up at times, but I’ve learned to manage my time much more effectively, and it’s been rewarding to see how much I’ve grown academically.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to keep exploring everything Brasenose and Oxford have to offer. My first term has been filled with incredible experiences, and I can’t wait to see what the rest of the year brings.
Dhairya Patel, First Year Engineering, formerly The Cedars Academy