1st year student, Aleksandra Matkowska, reading Italian and Linguistics at Keble:
What does a typical day studying Italian and Linguistics at Keble look like?
Generally, I would say that mornings are free. There might be a lecture or a class but usually most of them begin after lunch, so I have time to go to a library to do some work. Depending on the day, I either have a lecture or a tutorial. All of them are online this term due to the pandemic, so after I leave the library, I head back to my room to log onto Teams. The good thing about lectures this term is that they are all recorded so you can watch them anytime that suits you. Aside from that, every day I have at least one language class. Normally, I am done with classes at 4 or 5 pm unless I have the Italian literature tutorial which ends at 6. After that, I have time to finish up any work I have not done in the morning, get some dinner and hang out with my housemates (especially relevant if we are in isolation!).
Why do you like studying (Beginners’) Italian and Linguistics?
My favourite thing about the combination of Italian and Linguistics is that it’s a blend of humanities and science. I’ve never felt like I belonged to either one of the ‘traditional’ boxes, so this course is a great compromise. I can channel my more artistic side during the literature tutorials, but I also can (and need to) be very scientific while examining linguistic data, for example for my Grammatical Analysis class. On top of that, I also get to do one of my favourite things – learn a language. So overall, this course seems like a perfect mixture of all my interests.
Personal statement advice
When it comes to the personal statement, I’d say mention any books you have read about linguistics or your language of choice, say what you got from them, how they shaped your views and if they inspired you. If you have any previous experience in these fields, mention that as well. Although for linguistics and beginners’ course none is required. But even if you have watched a Ted Talk on YouTube about the connection between thoughts and language, it is definitely worth mentioning because it shows that you have an interest that can be further developed. I would also include any interesting books you have read that are not subject specific. They will be relevant for the Italian side of the course because you will study Italian literature.
Admissions test advice
It is very important to do as many tests as you can before the actual one. Previous papers are your best friend. Don’t go in without any preparation because that will not have the desired effect. I think the worst thing about those tests is the time limit. For MLAT you get 30 minutes for one component, which isn’t a lot of time. The tasks themselves are not too bad but you need to learn to do them efficiently. If you’re applying for a beginners’ course like me, you will have to take the Language Aptitude Test, which requires you to analyse a made-up language. Past papers help you see what kind of structures you need to look for, such as plural or tense markings, word order, cases etc. If you’re applying for a language course past A-levels, the best strategy would be to revise grammar and consume as much media in that language as you can, i.e. YouTube videos, TV, newspapers, to expand your vocabulary.
I also had to do the Linguistics section, but I can see from the university’s website that it is no longer there, so that’s good news for you!
Interview advice
For Modern Languages and Linguistics you have two interviews – one for your chosen language and one for linguistics (surprise surprise). First, let’s tackle linguistics. At Keble, I was given a problem sheet to solve before the actual interview. I believe I had about an hour for that, so make sure you use that time well. Think through all the tasks carefully, note down everything you find interesting but also write down the things you don’t understand. Don’t panic if you don’t know the answers to all of the questions, the tutors will probably encourage you to solve them during the interview, so try to give it your best shot. Try not to be silent, always say what you’re thinking.
For the Italian interview, I’d say read the text you’re given as many times as possible. Make sure you get a good understanding of the central ideas. Listen carefully to the tutors because they will probably try to prompt you to reach certain conclusions. Also make sure you know your personal statement well and be prepared to elaborate on anything you mentioned there.
And above all, try to relax. I know it’s hard. I’ve been there but even such a small thing as getting enough sleep before the day of the interview can make a big difference.