By Alex Burt-Tejedor, graduate of the 25th Cohort of Caxton College in Valencia

Thanks in large part to the support of my friends and teachers from Caxton College, I am currently an undergraduate reading History at the University of Oxford. Academic work here is voluminous and demanding, but incredibly interesting. I am able to study the histories of different countries across different periods, all of which helps me gain a greater understanding of how people and cultures actually work. Another great thing about studying History is that you have to prove you are competent across a range of issues, including understanding politics, culture, religion, economics, and more. We also have tutorials, which are in-depth discussions with an Oxford tutor and around two or three students. These last for an hour and involve plenty of debate and discussion, so they are very important to prepare for.

One of the great things about attending any university is the freedom it gives you to pursue your interests with like-minded students. Outside of my studies, I am Vice-President of the Oxford Europeanist Society. This is a non-partisan society which mainly invites policymakers, academics, and figures from the defence sector to give conferences. Several of our speakers have had deep connections to Spain.

A few weeks ago, I also joined the Oxford Spanish Society as a Committee Member. The Spanish Society brings together people interested in Spain and Oxford students from Spain, mainly through social events, although last year the society, in conjunction with the Europeanist Society, also organised a speaker event with a prominent figure involved in Spanish foreign policy. The Spanish Society is therefore a great way to make sure that Spain’s reputation at Oxford remains lively.

For Spanish students who come here, the intricacies of British culture and the particular traditions that Oxford has can be a challenge to navigate. A new cohort of students has recently joined us, and Spanish students amongst this cohort will no doubt be grappling with this. At the Spanish Society, we want to create a welcoming and fun atmosphere for everyone who has a passion for Spain.

I am very lucky to be working alongside an incredible team to deliver these events. This team includes Diego Devis, a fellow Old Caxtonian, who gave me excellent advice when I was applying to Oxford and who is a great friend of mine.