Oxford Demystified- History and Economics
The content of this post will form a chapter in @Oxford Mum's new book for prospective Oxford applicants, Oxford Demystified.
Why did you want to study your subject?
As soon as I began studying economics at A-Level, its potential to change our world for the better became apparent, and I became sure that I wanted to pursue a career in the field.
However, I also have a love for history, which though quite different to study, is equally fascinating.
Having studied both subjects in tandem for several months, I came to the conclusion that history and economics are so fundamentally intertwined that to study either subject in isolation would be to limit the scope of my understanding. I was therefore sure that I wanted to combine my two strongest areas of academic interest at degree level.
Why Oxford?
As cliché as it may sound, I always knew that I wanted to apply to Oxbridge. My parents studied at Oxford and Cambridge respectively, which was undoubtedly a massive help in removing much of the almost mystical aura that the country's oldest universities have acquired over the centuries. I wouldn't say that I had my heart set on Oxbridge, but I was certain that, given the opportunity, I would be delighted to study at either university.
Once I began to think more carefully about my future, and decided upon what I wanted to study, the decision between Oxford and Cambridge was straightforward. Though Cambridge's Economics tripos does cover a little historical context, it does not compare to the joint honours History and Economics course available at Oxford. I was also reassured at the university's Open Day that the course's history content would not prevent me from accessing the top postgraduate economics programmes, thereby allowing me to pursue my goal of a career in research.
Did anyone inspire you?
My history teacher was a huge inspiration in helping me to realise my passion and aptitude for the subject. However, in terms of applying to Oxford, it was definitely my parents who were most encouraging and inspirational.
Which resources did you use?
Books:
Rodney Hilton, Bond Men Made Free
Niall Ferguson, The Ascent of Money
John Maynard Keynes, The Economic Consequences of the Peace
Friedrich Hayek, The Road to Serfdom
Nate Silver, The Signal and the Noise
Cass Sunstein and Richard Thaler, Nudge
David Orrell, Quantum Economics
Linda Yueh, The Great Economists
Ha-Joon Chang, Kicking Away the Ladder
Ha-Joon Chang, Economics: The User's Guide
I read all of these in the months leading up to my application, mostly out of interest, but also to provide talking points for my personal statement and interviews.
For History and Economics, I would particularly recommend The Ascent of Money, which is a highly readable history of money and the financial system, and Kicking Away the Ladder, which provides a historical perspective on development economics.
Magazines and Newspapers:
The Economist is essential reading for keeping up-to-date with current affairs in economics, politics, science and technology.
I would also recommend reading or watching the news on a daily basis. My personal preference is The Guardian.
Podcasts:
BBC History Extra
BBC In Our Time: History
Both of these are great for a quick overview of a historical topic.
BBC More or Less
LSE iQ
These were similarly helpful in expanding my knowledge of current affairs relating to economics and statistics.
I was able to secure a place on an Economic History Taster Day at LSE, for which applications were surprisingly competitive, and it was an incredible experience. I have a suspicion that my mentioning of this on my UCAS application might have helped me in getting an offer for the university's Economics and Economic History course, but I'm not sure that the Oxford tutors would have given it much consideration!
I also attended several lectures relating to economics, statistics and forecasting. While I wouldn't say that doing so aided my application directly, it's always a good idea to take advantage of whatever opportunities are available to engage with your subject.
Did you take part in any competitions?
I entered both the RES Young Economist of the Year and NCH London essay competitions. Though what I ultimately produced wasn't particularly great, the process of independently researching and writing an essay on current issues in economics such as HS2 and the viability of behavioural insights was undoubtedly a valuable and rewarding experience.
Did you have any work experience?
I did, but I didn't mention it in my application. It should be noted that work experience is not relevant for the vast majority of Oxford courses. Instead, the tutors' sole concern is your academic potential and your willingness to engage with your chosen subject(s).
Did you do an EPQ?
I didn't, instead opting to take an AS in Further Maths. It was probably the greatest academic challenge that I have ever faced, but I am glad that I did it and proud of my ultimate grade.
What did you mention in your personal statement?
My personal statement was almost entirely a discussion of the issues and themes that I had encountered in reading the books that I mentioned above. I found it difficult at first to cover the two subject areas of history and economics with equal depth, but my UCAS advisor at school was helpful in highlighting to me the areas in which I could improve my statement.
I would definitely advise working with a teacher or parent to improve your personal statement. Of course, the level of support provided to Oxford applicants by schools varies, and unfortunately those at private or selective schools tend to benefit from such advantages. Fortunately, my comprehensive school was fairly organised with regards to guiding me and the other ten or so Oxford applicants through the process. If your school doesn't appear to have a formal system for advising applicants, be pro-active and ask for help, since it will aid you greatly.
How did you prepare for the admissions tests?
As a History and Economics applicant, I took both the History Aptitude Test (HAT) and the Thinking Skills Assessment Section 1 (TSAS1).
Preparing for the TSA was straightforward. There are numerous past papers and mark schemes available, so I worked my way through them, under timed conditions, and then reviewed my answers. I found this lecture series very useful in improving my score on the Critical Reasoning section of the test.
The HAT was a little more difficult, simply because of the incredibly vague nature of the mark scheme. To work around this, I used some of the past papers, had my Dad write an answer of his own, and then compared points with him. Obviously this will not be an option for everyone, but you could ask a teacher if they would be willing to take a look at one of your answers. It might also be helpful to familiarise yourself with the process of analysing primary historical source material. I was able to find a fantastic anthology of such sources at my local library, which I then used to develop my analytical skills.
Do not underestimate the importance of the admissions tests! In most cases, they will be the tutors' primary consideration in deciding whether or not to invite you to interview. The tests are hard, but preparing well will give you a huge confidence boost.
How did you choose your college?
While, for some applicants, the sense of tradition surrounding Oxford is a major part of the university's attraction, personally I wanted to study at a college which was as far removed from Oxford's more archaic side as possible. Luckily, St Catherine's, or "Catz" as it is affectionately known, is just that! Given the college's beautiful modernist architecture, strong academic performance, relaxed social environment and provision of vegan options at hall, it was an easy decision.
How did you find the interview process?
The interviews themselves were incredibly stressful and intense. I had just two, one for History and one for Economics, both at Catz, both within an hour of each other on the first morning that I was there. I felt thoroughly stretched by the tutors, one of whom was so vicious in his dismantling of my arguments that I was positively terrified!
Preparing for interviews is difficult, but possible to some extent. I would advise ensuring that you are familiar with your personal statement, any written work you've submitted, and your A-Level (or equivalent) course content. Other than that, you can expect to be asked questions that will require you to think in a much deeper and more abstract way than your standard school work does.
My main advice for the interviews would be to try as hard as possible to relax, think logically and aloud if possible, and to avoid over-analysing your own performance. I think I tailed off towards the end of my History interview because I was so convinced that I'd completely thrown my chances of admission away. It's important to remember that, while the interviews can seem like the "final hurdle", your performance at interview is just one of many factors that the tutors will use to assess your application. After all, how much of the decision can reasonably be based on what, in my case, was 40 minutes in total of conversation?
Of course, all this is easy to say with hindsight. Believe me, when I was there I felt under immense pressure to perform, as did most of my fellow applicants.
The rest of the interview experience, on the other hand, was brilliant. I enjoyed meeting so many amazing people from all over the world, and I feel as though some of the friendships that I formed in the three days that I spent in Oxford will endure for a long time. As someone who is quite socially anxious, it was extremely hard to walk into hall on the first evening without knowing a single person, but the environment was so friendly and welcoming that I soon felt at home. I would whole-heartedly recommend spending some time in the JCR (Common Room) and getting to know your fellow applicants. Interviews are, above all else, a fantastic opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and catch a glimpse of life at one of the world's most well-renowned institutions of education. There is much to be gained by throwing yourself into the experience, believe me!
When I returned home I was totally exhausted, quite ill with a cold and a little disappointed with how I had performed. Interviews are extremely draining in every sense, and feeling as if they have gone badly is totally normal. For a few days I felt pretty down, but after a week or two my mind had begun to focus on other things. As hard as it may be, trying to take your mind off Oxford and enjoy the festive period is the best course of action. As the days went by, the sense of failure that I had felt disappeared, and instead I was able to become content with what I had achieved throughout the admissions process, whatever the final outcome.
Where were you when you got your offer?
I was at home, in my living room, continuously refreshing UCAS Track. Suddenly, at 9:40, the notification came through!
It didn't quite feel real, which was probably partly because I hadn't slept much the night before. Before I rang my parents to let them know I had to check about five times to makes sure that I hadn't misread the update.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Oxford?
Absolutely, provided that I meet the conditions of my offer! I can't wait to finally realise what has been a very long-term dream
Why did you want to study your subject?
As soon as I began studying economics at A-Level, its potential to change our world for the better became apparent, and I became sure that I wanted to pursue a career in the field.
However, I also have a love for history, which though quite different to study, is equally fascinating.
Having studied both subjects in tandem for several months, I came to the conclusion that history and economics are so fundamentally intertwined that to study either subject in isolation would be to limit the scope of my understanding. I was therefore sure that I wanted to combine my two strongest areas of academic interest at degree level.
Why Oxford?
As cliché as it may sound, I always knew that I wanted to apply to Oxbridge. My parents studied at Oxford and Cambridge respectively, which was undoubtedly a massive help in removing much of the almost mystical aura that the country's oldest universities have acquired over the centuries. I wouldn't say that I had my heart set on Oxbridge, but I was certain that, given the opportunity, I would be delighted to study at either university.
Once I began to think more carefully about my future, and decided upon what I wanted to study, the decision between Oxford and Cambridge was straightforward. Though Cambridge's Economics tripos does cover a little historical context, it does not compare to the joint honours History and Economics course available at Oxford. I was also reassured at the university's Open Day that the course's history content would not prevent me from accessing the top postgraduate economics programmes, thereby allowing me to pursue my goal of a career in research.
Did anyone inspire you?
My history teacher was a huge inspiration in helping me to realise my passion and aptitude for the subject. However, in terms of applying to Oxford, it was definitely my parents who were most encouraging and inspirational.
Which resources did you use?
Books:
Rodney Hilton, Bond Men Made Free
Niall Ferguson, The Ascent of Money
John Maynard Keynes, The Economic Consequences of the Peace
Friedrich Hayek, The Road to Serfdom
Nate Silver, The Signal and the Noise
Cass Sunstein and Richard Thaler, Nudge
David Orrell, Quantum Economics
Linda Yueh, The Great Economists
Ha-Joon Chang, Kicking Away the Ladder
Ha-Joon Chang, Economics: The User's Guide
I read all of these in the months leading up to my application, mostly out of interest, but also to provide talking points for my personal statement and interviews.
For History and Economics, I would particularly recommend The Ascent of Money, which is a highly readable history of money and the financial system, and Kicking Away the Ladder, which provides a historical perspective on development economics.
Magazines and Newspapers:
The Economist is essential reading for keeping up-to-date with current affairs in economics, politics, science and technology.
I would also recommend reading or watching the news on a daily basis. My personal preference is The Guardian.
Podcasts:
BBC History Extra
BBC In Our Time: History
Both of these are great for a quick overview of a historical topic.
BBC More or Less
LSE iQ
These were similarly helpful in expanding my knowledge of current affairs relating to economics and statistics.
I was able to secure a place on an Economic History Taster Day at LSE, for which applications were surprisingly competitive, and it was an incredible experience. I have a suspicion that my mentioning of this on my UCAS application might have helped me in getting an offer for the university's Economics and Economic History course, but I'm not sure that the Oxford tutors would have given it much consideration!
I also attended several lectures relating to economics, statistics and forecasting. While I wouldn't say that doing so aided my application directly, it's always a good idea to take advantage of whatever opportunities are available to engage with your subject.
Did you take part in any competitions?
I entered both the RES Young Economist of the Year and NCH London essay competitions. Though what I ultimately produced wasn't particularly great, the process of independently researching and writing an essay on current issues in economics such as HS2 and the viability of behavioural insights was undoubtedly a valuable and rewarding experience.
Did you have any work experience?
I did, but I didn't mention it in my application. It should be noted that work experience is not relevant for the vast majority of Oxford courses. Instead, the tutors' sole concern is your academic potential and your willingness to engage with your chosen subject(s).
Did you do an EPQ?
I didn't, instead opting to take an AS in Further Maths. It was probably the greatest academic challenge that I have ever faced, but I am glad that I did it and proud of my ultimate grade.
What did you mention in your personal statement?
My personal statement was almost entirely a discussion of the issues and themes that I had encountered in reading the books that I mentioned above. I found it difficult at first to cover the two subject areas of history and economics with equal depth, but my UCAS advisor at school was helpful in highlighting to me the areas in which I could improve my statement.
I would definitely advise working with a teacher or parent to improve your personal statement. Of course, the level of support provided to Oxford applicants by schools varies, and unfortunately those at private or selective schools tend to benefit from such advantages. Fortunately, my comprehensive school was fairly organised with regards to guiding me and the other ten or so Oxford applicants through the process. If your school doesn't appear to have a formal system for advising applicants, be pro-active and ask for help, since it will aid you greatly.
How did you prepare for the admissions tests?
As a History and Economics applicant, I took both the History Aptitude Test (HAT) and the Thinking Skills Assessment Section 1 (TSAS1).
Preparing for the TSA was straightforward. There are numerous past papers and mark schemes available, so I worked my way through them, under timed conditions, and then reviewed my answers. I found this lecture series very useful in improving my score on the Critical Reasoning section of the test.
The HAT was a little more difficult, simply because of the incredibly vague nature of the mark scheme. To work around this, I used some of the past papers, had my Dad write an answer of his own, and then compared points with him. Obviously this will not be an option for everyone, but you could ask a teacher if they would be willing to take a look at one of your answers. It might also be helpful to familiarise yourself with the process of analysing primary historical source material. I was able to find a fantastic anthology of such sources at my local library, which I then used to develop my analytical skills.
Do not underestimate the importance of the admissions tests! In most cases, they will be the tutors' primary consideration in deciding whether or not to invite you to interview. The tests are hard, but preparing well will give you a huge confidence boost.
How did you choose your college?
While, for some applicants, the sense of tradition surrounding Oxford is a major part of the university's attraction, personally I wanted to study at a college which was as far removed from Oxford's more archaic side as possible. Luckily, St Catherine's, or "Catz" as it is affectionately known, is just that! Given the college's beautiful modernist architecture, strong academic performance, relaxed social environment and provision of vegan options at hall, it was an easy decision.
How did you find the interview process?
The interviews themselves were incredibly stressful and intense. I had just two, one for History and one for Economics, both at Catz, both within an hour of each other on the first morning that I was there. I felt thoroughly stretched by the tutors, one of whom was so vicious in his dismantling of my arguments that I was positively terrified!
Preparing for interviews is difficult, but possible to some extent. I would advise ensuring that you are familiar with your personal statement, any written work you've submitted, and your A-Level (or equivalent) course content. Other than that, you can expect to be asked questions that will require you to think in a much deeper and more abstract way than your standard school work does.
My main advice for the interviews would be to try as hard as possible to relax, think logically and aloud if possible, and to avoid over-analysing your own performance. I think I tailed off towards the end of my History interview because I was so convinced that I'd completely thrown my chances of admission away. It's important to remember that, while the interviews can seem like the "final hurdle", your performance at interview is just one of many factors that the tutors will use to assess your application. After all, how much of the decision can reasonably be based on what, in my case, was 40 minutes in total of conversation?
Of course, all this is easy to say with hindsight. Believe me, when I was there I felt under immense pressure to perform, as did most of my fellow applicants.
The rest of the interview experience, on the other hand, was brilliant. I enjoyed meeting so many amazing people from all over the world, and I feel as though some of the friendships that I formed in the three days that I spent in Oxford will endure for a long time. As someone who is quite socially anxious, it was extremely hard to walk into hall on the first evening without knowing a single person, but the environment was so friendly and welcoming that I soon felt at home. I would whole-heartedly recommend spending some time in the JCR (Common Room) and getting to know your fellow applicants. Interviews are, above all else, a fantastic opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone and catch a glimpse of life at one of the world's most well-renowned institutions of education. There is much to be gained by throwing yourself into the experience, believe me!
When I returned home I was totally exhausted, quite ill with a cold and a little disappointed with how I had performed. Interviews are extremely draining in every sense, and feeling as if they have gone badly is totally normal. For a few days I felt pretty down, but after a week or two my mind had begun to focus on other things. As hard as it may be, trying to take your mind off Oxford and enjoy the festive period is the best course of action. As the days went by, the sense of failure that I had felt disappeared, and instead I was able to become content with what I had achieved throughout the admissions process, whatever the final outcome.
Where were you when you got your offer?
I was at home, in my living room, continuously refreshing UCAS Track. Suddenly, at 9:40, the notification came through!
It didn't quite feel real, which was probably partly because I hadn't slept much the night before. Before I rang my parents to let them know I had to check about five times to makes sure that I hadn't misread the update.
Are you looking forward to coming up to Oxford?
Absolutely, provided that I meet the conditions of my offer! I can't wait to finally realise what has been a very long-term dream
An amazing chapter, thank you so much!
Here are some more resources...
Oxford Demystified chapters:
History
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=6126988
Economics and Management
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=6424980
@historicism
Here are some more resources...
Oxford Demystified chapters:
History
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=6126988
Economics and Management
https://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/showthread.php?t=6424980
@historicism
Sample interview questions:
History
https://www.oxfordinterviewquestions.com/questions/history/
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/history
Economics
https://www.oxfordinterviewquestions.com/questions/economics/
https://www.tutor2u.net/economics/blog/interview-questions-for-oxbridge-economics
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/economics-and-management
Surprisingly, I couldn't find any youtube videos for history and economics interviews!
History at Oxford Q&A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AZverMWeg4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtGBX3eygGs
Economics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t89X4pgwrXE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snol9dIz6Ds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzwxQ164FE0
History
https://www.oxfordinterviewquestions.com/questions/history/
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/history
Economics
https://www.oxfordinterviewquestions.com/questions/economics/
https://www.tutor2u.net/economics/blog/interview-questions-for-oxbridge-economics
https://sites.google.com/site/oxbridgeinterviewquestions/economics-and-management
Surprisingly, I couldn't find any youtube videos for history and economics interviews!
History at Oxford Q&A
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-AZverMWeg4
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZtGBX3eygGs
Economics
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t89X4pgwrXE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=snol9dIz6Ds
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzwxQ164FE0
I am very interested to read that you want to use your subject (economics) to change the world for the better. This is an ambition of many Oxford uni students, and a laudable one. Many students before you have made great strides in the realms of science and humanities with this simple aim.
I hope you will be able to study economics at postgraduate level at Oxford. Is there any particular field of study you have your eye on? Or is it something you are yet to make your mind up about?
I never thought of putting history and economics together, but it sounds fascinating. It's very important for economists to learn lessons from history whilst dealing with the problems of the present.
Also you have underlined the importance of parents and teachers in the process. Even if you don't have parents who can answer some of the HAT questions, parents are great for having a good moan at and cheering you on from the sidelines.
If any students want to apply for Oxford, it's wise to discuss this with your teachers. They can be a great source of assistance and moral support.
I am also glad that you took part in (and enjoyed) the socialising part of the interview process. One of the best bits about starting at Oxford is meeting some of the people you met and liked at interview again! With both my boys, there was a lot of joyful hugging going on during the first day!
I hope you will be able to study economics at postgraduate level at Oxford. Is there any particular field of study you have your eye on? Or is it something you are yet to make your mind up about?
I never thought of putting history and economics together, but it sounds fascinating. It's very important for economists to learn lessons from history whilst dealing with the problems of the present.
Also you have underlined the importance of parents and teachers in the process. Even if you don't have parents who can answer some of the HAT questions, parents are great for having a good moan at and cheering you on from the sidelines.
If any students want to apply for Oxford, it's wise to discuss this with your teachers. They can be a great source of assistance and moral support.
I am also glad that you took part in (and enjoyed) the socialising part of the interview process. One of the best bits about starting at Oxford is meeting some of the people you met and liked at interview again! With both my boys, there was a lot of joyful hugging going on during the first day!
Really enjoyed reading this! The Signal and The Noise is the next book on my reading list, so I’m excited to delve into that! It’s so lovely to meet another economist - hopefully see you in Oxford! 
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