Lily
Spanish and Russian, 4th Year
I came from a comprehensive secondary school in Oxfordshire and went to a grammar school for sixth form in Buckinghamshire. I did not know much about Oxford and applied on a whim, with little expectation of actually getting in. I knew nothing about Teddy Hall before turning up for interviews, and that is when I saw myself here for the first time and started feeling really enthusiastic about coming to Oxford.
I started studying Russian from scratch, which was challenging and I know I have struggled with imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence throughout. But I have grown really passionate about Gender Studies pertaining to women’s literature, particularly Latin American literature. Going away in second year on my year abroad to Yaroslavl was tough but eye-opening and an unforgettable experience, particularly travelling around the neighbouring countries. As a woman, I think we are often inclined to be quiet in class and doubt ourselves, but some of my tutors have been really encouraging and helped me grow in confidence. Now, I really enjoy speaking and reading in both languages, as well as exploring social movements and philosophies through literature.
After graduation, I want to take a gap year and relax a bit. I would like to travel around Latin America, in particular Colombia and Cuba, and practise my Spanish. Afterwards, I am considering undertaking a Journalism Masters as I got into student journalism during my time here and have found it very enjoyable.
I found the ‘Hall spirit’ at Teddy comforting and exciting; I settled in with a group of friends almost immediately and we have remained friends since. Our excellent ‘WOTH’ (women of the hall) nights and turn out at sports matches really show the encouraging community spirit here. My favourite memory is Christmas dinner 2021 and Thirst afterwards. Everyone got on the chairs and sang carols and ‘Wonderhall’ and we filled the Thirst dance floor.
What do you think of when you hear ‘Women of the Hall’?
I think that even though we have all come from different backgrounds, there is someone for everyone. All the women* here are fun, friendly and interesting! There are different friendship groups with different interests, but seeing everyone come together for WOTH events, the women’s officers and the effort they put in shows that women’s safety, happiness and community is a priority for us. It is important to have a space for women in an environment that has been historically, and still is, very male-centric.