What made you want to go to Oxbridge?

I did well in my maths GCSE in year 10 despite it being my least favourite subject, so I decided there was nothing stopping me from doing just as well in my other subjects. I can remember walking home after I got my result and thinking,“What’s stopping me from going to Oxford?” Along with that belief and with my parents’ never-ending support, Oxford seemed to be within reach.

Did you know anybody at Oxbridge before you went?

No.

What was your first impression?

The lack of diversity was very noticeable.

What has surprised you the most? Were there any culture shocks?

A nice surprise was that there were more state school educated students then I was initially expecting. As for the culture shock, being from up North, Arab and Muslim, it was quite overwhelming at the beginning, but you get used to the changes eventually.

What has been your biggest struggle?

Although I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else now, the first terms were difficult. I was very homesick and had a case of imposters syndrome, which is a common phrase used here by everyone to refer to the ‘not belonging’ feeling. On top of that, the drinking culture is quite big here so it can be very isolating. But saying that, when I did eventually meet people from other colleges and other backgrounds, the struggle was 100% worth it. There are such great support systems and a really strong community within the Islamic Society, which really helps you settle in.

What have you most enjoyed?

I have met some really amazing people that quite literally have made Oxford for one. Whether that be the friends I’ve made or getting advice from people at the top of their careers, it has all been quite surreal. As well as that, living in a city as beautiful as Oxford is always a plus.

What do you want to do after your degree?

I’ve decided to go down the law route and will be making applications to law firms this Year.

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To the Non-White Potential Oxbridge Applicants

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Do you think diversity is an issue, and is the university doing enough to tackle it?

Diversity is an issue, but the university and colleges are trying to combat it with access schemes. When reading articles about Oxford’s diversity issues, keep in mind that most universities, outside of London, have diversity issues but Oxford does get the most publicity for it. Don’t let issues of diversity stop you from applying. As cheesy as it sounds, be the change you want to see. Nothing is going to change if we don’t apply and put ourselves out there.

What advice do you wish someone gave you?

A piece of advice I wish I received would be that it’s completely normal to be homesick and it’s completely normal if it takes you a long time to settle in. Know that the idea that people meet their closest friends within the first few weeks of university, couldn’t be further from the truth. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help! There really is no shame in asking and talking to other people if you are struggling – in fact it’s completely normal.

What would you to say to other Muslim women thinking to apply?

If you are thinking of applying, apply! Despite all the struggles, Oxford is worth it. There is a space for you. No matter where you come from, no matter what your background is and no matter what school you come from, believe in yourself and apply.

Favorite place on campus, and why?

The Prayer Room on Parks Road and Radcliffe Square. The Prayer Room, as well as for praying and breaking our fast during Ramadan, is just a really cozy place to meet with friends. As for Radcliffe Square, there really is no way to describe it other than that it is beautiful all year round and ‘very Oxford’.