This summer, Queen’s was delighted to once again play a part in UNIQ, the University of Oxford’s flagship access programme for UK state school students.
UNIQ is a free programme designed to give students from backgrounds that are underrepresented at Oxford the opportunity to explore university life, experience academic study at Oxford, and find out more about the application process. Each year, it supports more than 1,000 young people as they consider their options and whether Oxford might be the right choice for them.
As part of this summer’s programme, Queen’s welcomed UNIQ participants to stay overnight in College, giving them a taste of Oxford life and the chance to meet and learn from current students. Some of our own students were involved in helping to make the programme happen, sharing their experiences of Oxford and supporting participants during their time here.
We caught up with Queen’s student Mehreen who was involved to hear more about UNIQ and what her role entailed.
What do you enjoy about giving tours of Queen’s?
Seeing people’s reactions to parts of the College that have now become part of my mundane routines. It shows how impressive Queen’s is and reminds me to never stop being grateful to be here.
Why do programmes like UNIQ matter?
They serve as a reminder that entry to universities like Oxford is not gatekept according to social or financial status. Elite unis are often seen as unachievable and UNIQ allowed me to dispel so many stereotypes surrounding the application process as well as the ‘type of students’ at Oxford.
Was there anything that surprised you about the experience?
I had an unbelievable time with the students at my College. By the end of the week, it just felt like I was hanging out with friends. I can vividly remember being in their position about two years ago, so I was happy to be honest and candid when replying to their questions – I hope this made them feel comfortable about applying to Oxford.
I was happy to be honest and candid when replying to their questions – I hope this made them feel comfortable about applying to Oxford.
What would you say to a Queen’s student who was thinking about getting involved in outreach in future?
Do it! Particularly if your journey to Oxford/Queen’s was not linear, it can be such a source of hope for future years. It is important to be part of the change that you want to see, so be the representation that so many students will appreciate. It is insanely rewarding and fun at the same time. I love it because it continuously reminds me how far I have come.
