Five reasons to study Art History at Oxford Brookes University
I have always been drawn to England and its culture, but I had never considered studying there until I took a trip to Oxford. The peaceful quads of the colleges, the studious atmosphere of the libraries, and the streets full of beautiful buildings and cosmopolitan life completely captivated me; I did not hesitate. I applied to five English universities, but Oxford Brookes University was my first choice, and I was delighted when I got in.
Why studying Art History at Oxford Brookes University?
Their art history course is sensational. Not only did I study painting, sculpture, architecture, and other art forms in detail with knowledgeable and friendly lecturers, but the opportunities offered by Brookes are a dream come true for any student wishing to work in the art world. I had the opportunity to attend classes inside the Ashmolean Museum, one of the most prestigious museums in the world, with direct access to the collections, discussions with curators, and hands-on experience with the works. I was able to attend architecture classes inside historic buildings, giving me first-hand knowledge of what I was learning. The course also included frequent visits to museums and heritage sites in London and in other English towns, as well as an exciting field trip to Paris. And the icing on the cake? I was very lucky to curate my own exhibition using the university's collection and archives, and displaying it to the public; I cannot tell you how much this experience has been valuable and enriching.
Studying here is a unique experience
The teaching style in England and at Oxford Brookes University is very different from that in my country, where there are only lectures and the teachers are very distant. Here, we learn in small groups, with regular, direct, and very warm contact with the lecturers, which has allowed me to manage my workload as a non-English speaker, to find what suited me best among the many options offered, and forge very strong bonds with my classmates and tutors. We would even get together sometimes to chat about art over drinks and snacks, with students from other years and museum professionals invited to talk to us in a casual setting. Sometimes we would even go to old historic pubs, or play games!
The Campus life at Oxford Brookes University
Life on the Headington campus at Oxford Brookes University is a real pleasure. I was just a few minutes by bus from the busy city centre, but at the same time, the campus is very relaxing, which allowed me to take breaks from my studies and avoid stress. I could walk from my student accommodation, which had a cute view on a pond with ducks, to my classrooms along a charming tree-lined path. The buildings of the Headington campus are incredible, with great contemporary architecture, and lots of comfortable places to study, meet up with friends, and eat and drink. The many dining options are a treat, which offered me so many great meals, not to mention the very convenient grocery store, just at the entrance. There are always events to enjoy and discover other cultures or activities, and lots of options for sports. Honestly, I feel at home on this campus.
Just because Oxford!
The dreamy spires of Oxford are not a myth. Whether you are a Harry Potter fan or drawn to the dark academia aesthetic, let me warn you: Oxford will exceed your expectations. In any case, I love living in this city. For someone who loves culture, it is THE city to study in, because there are so many options for seeing masterpieces and breathtaking things. I have taken thousands of photos! What is more, Oxford Brookes has allowed me to visit lots of places that are normally off-limits to tourists, such as the Bodleian Library and secretive colleges. Oxford is magical in every season. If the weather is nice, I would go punting or walking in a park. If it rains, the streets are spectacular, and there are plenty of cafés, shops, and very original places to spend time. And I had the privilege of seeing the city under the snow: straight out of Narnia! If you want to study at Oxford Brookes University, there are three things you must do in the city: read under the dome of the Radcliffe Camera (stunning), visit the Pitt Rivers Museum (a unique place), and go to one of the pubs in the trendy Jericho neighbourhood (the food, contrary to popular belief, is delicious).
The best for social life and travels
As a student at Oxford Brookes, my social life was very exciting, and I met people from all over the world (my best friends are from Singapore, Iran, and Germany), with whom I shared memorable moments, such as birthdays, game nights, and tons of pizza! There are also many connections with Oxford University, and I was able to attend exclusive talks at the colleges and events such as the Oxford Medieval Mystery Plays. Oxford Brookes also makes it easy to explore the United Kingdom with great day trips by bus. I was able to go to the beach many times, discover Shakespeare's town, see the palace of Windsor, and spend days in London, which is really close by. From Oxford, it is easy to travel around the country, and I have taken lots of short trips with friends or on my own to discover places, each one more charming than the last, and which really improved my knowledge.
Thanks to my Art History course at Oxford Brookes University, I have forged strong friendships, created wonderful memories, and gained experience that will serve me well both in my career and in my relationship with the world around me. Best thing I have ever done, and if you love art, I would genuinely recommend it.
- Jennifer