Advice from Former WEPO Students

This year goes by fast. Take opportunities to explore this marvellous city of over 150,000 people (32,000 of which are students!). The chance to live in another country for a year is a rare one. Use it well. You have a chance here to study fewer subjects, more intensely than at Williams. We encourage you to dig in, read lots, and delve into your problem sets. You'll be surrounded by people doing the same thing.

Below are some pieces of advice from former WEPO students:

“Go into town every day, find reasons to go, and stay in town as long as you can. The JCR is just as good as an entry common room if you give it a chance.”

“Go to the JCR meeting on Sunday night and Welfare Tea on Wednesday. Both have free food, and are fun.”

“The tutorials are part of the experience, not the entire thing. Efficient work is better than long hours of work.”

“Oxford clubs and sports clubs want you to participate. The standard is lower than at Williams. Get involved in University level stuff- it’s the best way to meet people outside college.”

“Take advantage of lectures- it is easy to get lazy and not go, but if you test a few out, they are a great way to learn material that you otherwise wouldn’t have a chance to learn.”

“Try not to have an expectation for what the year will be like- it almost certainly will be different. Come in with an open mind and you’ll get so much more out of it.”

“Try not to get caught up in life back home. It’s hard not to- but it’s even harder to take advantage of your time here if you are!”

“Open a UK bank account during Exeter Orientation Week- don’t leave it for weeks. Remember to close your account as you leave, unless you plan to return to the UK to study or work, in which case don’t forget to advise the bank of your new address.”

“Both of the professional theatres in Oxford offer a student walk-up rate at the Box Office. Take your student ID card with you if you fancy seeing a play or a show that night.”

“Use up all your Exeter meal allowance- you won’t get a refund on anything unused.”

“Use your bike for transport into town and to explore. You’ll save money and get to know the city.”