Elif Bayat is a Clarendon Scholar and an MSc student in Global Governance and Diplomacy at Lincoln College. The University recently featured her in their Student Story series and on the official Oxford University students Instagram.

Elif shares her inspiring academic journey that took her from the Ruhr area of Germany to Frankfurt, Paris, Istanbul and San Antonio, Texas before eventually taking up her place at Oxford, and reflects on her multicultural background and being the the first generation in her family to attend University. During her time at Oxford, Elif has been determined to take nothing for granted and has thrown herself into student life, from her role as the Communications Secretary of the Clarendon Scholars’ Association to playing football for various teams and regularly attending society and Union events.

"When I think of Oxford, I am reminded of the range of opportunities I have here as a student. On the one hand, I devote most of my time to studying and often spend hours in the library. I see it as a privilege, as I have access to an outstanding education and find my courses incredibly exciting. On the other hand, there are endless opportunities to get involved. There is always something happening in Oxford, and I try to find the right balance."

Read the full story on the University of Oxford website.