Jun Tsin
Student spotlight details
Jun, who works as a translator vetting bilingual texts in the civil service in Hong Kong, China, enrolled on our Inspiring Oxford summer school programme to gain experience studying in an English-immersive environment and improve his language skills.
'This summer (2025), I had the extraordinary opportunity to attend the Inspiring Oxford Summer School programme, spending a memorable fortnight at Brasenose College. Nestled in the heart of Oxford, the college’s historic architecture and scholarly atmosphere made it the perfect setting for learning and growth.
'As a translator in the civil service, my daily work involves translating and vetting bilingual texts with precision and care. Despite my professional engagement with languages, I have never set foot in the Western world, let alone studied in an English-immersive environment. Enrolling in the summer school was my way of filling that gap. It allowed me to sharpen my language skills and immerse myself in British culture, expanding my worldview in ways I had never imagined.
'The programme offered a wide range of self-selected courses. Each class was led by distinguished scholars who brought passion and depth to their teaching. I chose two week-long courses during my stay, namely 'The Reign of Elizabeth I' and 'The Fellowship of the Inklings: J R R Tolkien, C S Lewis and Their Circle'. The former deepened my understanding of Tudor politics and the legacy of the Virgin Queen, while the latter introduced me to the literary camaraderie of Tolkien, Lewis and their circle. These two courses really rekindled my love for history and storytelling.
'One of the greatest challenges I faced was learning to open up. I have never considered myself shy, but initiating conversations and contributing to discussions in front of eloquent, well-informed peers and tutors was daunting. Would I be articulate enough? Would my ideas resonate? These questions lingered, but fortunately, I was surrounded by a group of incredibly kind and supportive classmates. Their warmth and openness helped me find my voice, and soon I was joining lively discussions, sharing perspectives, and laughing over late-night chats in the college courtyard.
'The Oxford tradition of tutorials was a true highlight. These intimate sessions encouraged critical thinking and gave me the confidence to share my views with clarity and conviction. Beyond the academic, staying in the college’s dorms was nothing short of magical. I got a glimpse into the collegiate life: waking up to quiet Oxford mornings, walking through centuries-old corridors, and dining in grand halls steeped in history.
'For anyone wondering whether to enrol, my answer is absolutely yes. This experience was truly transformative, reminding me that language is not only a tool, but a lens through which we see and understand the world. I returned home not only with refined skills, but also with renewed confidence and a deeper appreciation for how education can transcend borders and open minds.'
