Test taken: HAT
Number of interviews: 2
Length of interviews: 20 mins
Online interview: yes

In my first interview (Magdalen), there were three tutors. We discussed emotional history, childhood history (which I discussed in my personal statement) and my written work that I had submitted. The questions were complex, but the tutors gave me time to think out loud and explore my ideas.

In my second interview (Somerville), there were two primary tutors; however, there was a panel of tutors also watching my interview (luckily I could not see them). We discussed childhood history and my written work. However, the source material was on a different topic. In both interviews, they respected that I had a stammer and put me at ease. I found out that one of the tutors also had a stammer when they were younger. If you have a disability or speech impediment, please tell them as they were wonderful in supporting me and taking it into consideration.

To prepare for my interviews, I re-read my A-Level textbooks, so I understood all the basic historical skills, and my personal statement and submitted written work. To further this, I also kept my eye on historical debates in the news. Luckily, my teachers were willing to complete a few practice interviews where I could iron out some of my hesitations. However, the best advice I got was to practice speaking your ideas out loud; I found this more difficult than writing my ideas down.

I had no idea about the HAT. First, I read every snippet of information on the official Oxford website. There was an informative video of Oxford students doing a walk-through of a past paper - highly recommend to watch! Additionally, Dr Matt Williams (Jesus College Tutor and Access fellow) has compiled a wonderful collection of videos on YouTube: he goes through most of the aptitude tests, essay advice and personal statement tips and tricks. In terms of practice, I completed all the practice papers. Luckily, my history teacher agreed to look at the aptitude test with me during after-school sessions. He had no idea what the test was about; we just had fun bouncing questions and assertions at each other. Especially with the HAT, it is critical that you can digest information at speed (you only have an hour to complete the test). I recommend reading history books, articles, or even newspapers and finding their key arguments. My biggest tip is to view the test as an academic challenge and not a test! Keep calm and try to have some fun with it.

My advice is not to become overwhelmed by the academic reputation of Oxbridge. Keep calm, do your research and have fun with the application process. I learnt so much about the different ways to view history that I'm glad I gave it a shot! On a side note, Oxbridge wants to hear your voice. Do not try and hide it amongst complex jargon and ideas. Better to use simple, concise vocabulary than words you don't fully understand.