First Impressions: The Journey Begins for Our New Cherwellians

The start of a new academic journey is always filled with excitement, curiosity, and a touch of nervousness. For our new A-Level students at Cherwell College Oxford, the first two weeks have been a time of discovery—of new subjects, new friendships, and the historic city of Oxford itself.

Yumiko reflects with gratitude on the supportive atmosphere she has found: “I have an environment where I can focus on studying the subjects I want and need to study, and the teachers, staff, and other students are all very kind. Although I’m still getting used to dormitory life and communicating in English, I’m eager to gradually adapt.” From exploring Oxford’s historic buildings to learning about the university’s admissions process and joining activities like art and kickboxing, her first weeks have been both inspiring and fulfilling.

For Maccabi, the journey to Cherwell was an unexpected opportunity. Coming from the U.S., he describes how quickly life changed: “In a matter of weeks I was there with my own room—it had all happened so quickly, and I was very grateful to be there.” Determined to make the most of this chance, he switched from humanities to sciences, aiming towards pharmacology. “The one-to-one tutoring is very helpful for me… and the plans that are made for us are always very educational and fun. My impression of Cherwell College and the staff that keep it going is very positive and I am going to make the most of this amazing opportunity.”

Dariia’s arrival in Oxford was driven by a clear ambition: to pursue medicine. Leaving her home country at 15 was not easy, but she found herself at home in the academic atmosphere of Oxford. “The whole city is imbued with an atmosphere of knowledge, and it is in this place that I am ready to study and give all of myself to it, with a cherished dream only to be at the University of Oxford at the Faculty of Medicine one day.” She highlights the value of both individual and group lessons, as well as the joy of extracurriculars like art and kickboxing. Visits to Oxford colleges such as Pembroke, Magdalen, and Merton gave her an unforgettable glimpse into the life she aspires to.

For Yunxuan, the first weeks were an intense transition from summer to study. With long hours of geography lessons in the opening days, he found the rhythm of academic life while also joining a variety of enrichment activities. He recalls the psychology workshop on stress management as particularly helpful, and the art club as a chance to connect with classmates. Exploring colleges like Magdalen, Merton, Worcester, and Green Templeton provided a sense of Oxford’s extraordinary blend of history and innovation. “Overall, in the two weeks, a lot of things had happened. I got to know more about my classmates, revised my knowledge from last school year, and expanded my knowledge of Oxford.”

Together, these reflections reveal a shared sense of wonder and determination. Whether through personal growth, academic challenge, or cultural immersion, the first two weeks at Cherwell College Oxford have set the stage for a rewarding A-Level journey ahead. Our students are not only settling into a new environment but also beginning to envision their futures—with ambition, enthusiasm, and the support of the Cherwell community.

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