Can you tell us a little bit about your role?
I work in undergraduate admissions and outreach. Half of my job is spent aiming to inspire the next generation to aim for Oxford, and the other half is taking all the administrative steps to welcome the next cohort of students from the point of their application to their arrival in October.
What led you to becoming an Outreach Officer?
As a student, Oxford was not on my radar at all until I took part in the University’s outreach activities, which made me feel like I could belong and thrive here. Going to Oxford was transformative for me and one of the best decisions I ever made, so I am very eager to provide support for other students who come from underrepresented backgrounds.
What does a “normal” day look like for you?
It can really vary based on the time of year! Michaelmas is extremely busy with admissions: we have a two-person team collecting all the written work, organising all the interviews, and communicating with all the applicants. On the outreach side, I host school visits about twice a week in term time, deliver webinars, organise events like Open Days, and undertake a ‘roadshow’ for two weeks across our link regions of Hampshire and Surrey. It is a lot of presenting… but also a lot of emails!
What is the best thing about your job?
Meeting interesting and hardworking young people in each outreach activity I host. It is particularly rewarding to see that you have made a difference to a student’s trajectory: maybe they are now considering going to university when before they were set against it, or now they feel confident and equipped to apply to Oxford when previously they were doubting their abilities. There have been occasions where students I have personally dedicated time and effort to have ended up receiving offers from St Hilda’s. There is no better feeling!
Who inspires you in your role?
My student ambassadors! Their love for Hilda’s is infectious and they make such a difference to the young people who come to visit the College.
What do you like about working at St Hilda’s?
The people are so lovely and friendly, the location and riverside view is beautiful, and I have a soft spot for the three cats (especially Bournville!). As an alum, Hilda’s has always felt like home.
What do you like to do outside of work?
I am a big fan of a pub quiz, particularly when it is music related, and I will take any opportunity to go to a disco or see live music! At home I like to read, learn history for fun, cross stitch, and lino print.
An inspiring quote to sign off
From Shakespeare, “We know what we are, but not what we may be”