Oxford Interview: Part 1

I don't feel scared or nervous.

But I don't feel good about it though. I feel unprepared, am sick from flu, and so vulnerable.

Since I believe that luck = preparation + opportunity,

I've certainly got most of the opportunity bit, but not so sure about the preparation.

Have I got what it takes to be an Oxford student?

I think so - I am hard-working, I am smart. I aim for the best.

But still depends on my competition.

Acyl chlorides and paracetamol, nucleophilic substitution and elimination, pyridine and tertiary amines...

Can I take it all in?

I doubt it, so can I work things out from scratch.

Maybe, but I need lots of time.

But the interview only lasts 30 minutes or so.

Can I show the best of me in half an hour?

No, but the tips I got are:

Do not show any of you weaknesses, but don't act arrogant,

Do ask questions, but do not ask silly ones,

Do show respect, at the same time self-confidence,

Answer slowly, but logically.

If you don't understand, don't just stutter an answer,

Ask, ask, and ask.

Remain calm, and make this an invaluable experience,

It's more like a discussion than a Q&A session.

So, in conclusion, there's nothing to worry about,

The worst thing that can happen is you don't get in

Which doesn't change who you are - so phew!