Hear from our Students: What is it really like to study at St Clare’s International College?

Alumni tell their stories

Are you thinking about applying to St Clare’s International College?

You’re in the right place. We have gathered insights from St Clare’s alumni to help you feel more confident in your decision. We asked several alumni to share their experiences at the college and how their time here shaped their lives.

In the previous article, we explored Roderick’s story. Today, we introduce you to our next alumna: Margot Kerjean from France, who completed the Undergraduate Programme at St Clare’s in 2025. Margot is currently in her first year of a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the Université catholique de l’Ouest in Nantes, France.

Why did you decide to do this programme?

I discovered St Clare’s while doing research online, and I decided to study there because I’ve always been drawn to the English language, and even more so to England itself, especially Oxford. Studying in such a historic and inspiring city had always been a dream of mine.

Which academic subjects did you study, and which did you find most impactful?

I decided to do this programme to explore what I truly enjoy studying. My main goal was to discover different subjects and get a better idea of what I wanted to pursue in higher education. It really helped me clarify my interests and choose the right path for university.

How did the programme help improve your English and academic skills?

I studied Criminology, Psychology, Political Ideologies, English Literature, and Oxford Fantasy Fiction. I genuinely enjoyed all of these classes, the content was fascinating, and the teachers were truly passionate. But if I had to choose one that impacted me the most, it would be Criminology. The subject had already interested me before, but the course deepened my curiosity even more. It was taught by Lucrezia Rizelli, one of the best teachers I’ve ever had. Her passion and knowledge made every lesson unforgettable.

How did this programme prepare you for university studies or further education?

The programme helped me enormously. I could already understand English quite well before, but there’s a big difference between understanding a language and actually using it every day. Practising it regularly was essential, and that’s exactly what I was able to do during those four months, whether in class, at the cafeteria, or in the house in the evenings. In terms of academic skills, it also helped me a lot. It introduced me to university-style work, especially essay writing, which was completely new to me and has proven really valuable for my current studies.

Did the programme influence your career goals or open up new job opportunities?

The programme really prepared me for university-level work. It taught me how to conduct proper research, structure academic essays, and develop clear, well-supported arguments. Before coming to St Clare’s, I didn’t have much experience with this kind of academic work, so learning how to write critically and organise my ideas was incredibly helpful. I now feel much more confident when approaching university assignments, thanks to the foundation I built during the programme.

The programme confirmed my desire to continue my studies in the field of psychology, and later on, possibly specialize in criminology. It helped me understand better what I want to focus on for my future career.

Can you share an example of how the skills you gained have been useful in your studies or work?

One clear example is how I use English in my current studies, both in classes and when doing research and writing essays. The skills I developed at St Clare’s, especially in academic writing and critical thinking, have been really useful and have made my university work much easier.

How did your time in Oxford change your perspective on learning, culture, or life in general?

My months in Oxford were probably some of the best of my life. The city itself is full of history and inspiration, creating a unique atmosphere that encourages learning and personal growth. The people I met, both students and teachers, were incredibly supportive and approachable. The professors were attentive and encouraging without putting too much academic pressure on us, which made the learning experience enjoyable and motivating. This environment helped me gain confidence, broaden my cultural horizons, and develop a more positive and open-minded attitude towards both education and life in general.