Rejected by Oxford + My Interview Experience (One Year On) | Jack Edwards

[@samuelshoesmith]

"Failure ... is part of success" - Jack, I loved this.

[@jack_edwards]

AYYYY thank you so much for watching!

[@mrnub5476]

I’m sorry this happened; however it’s a learning process and I’m happy for you that you can study at Durham uni. My father was rejected from Oxford and went to ucl . Now he’s a professor at Oxford . You can do anything 💪

[@nancystitt1364]

My sister also got rejected from Oxford last year for English literature, but now she goes to Edinburgh and LOVES IT! you're so right, everything happens for a reason :)

[@jack_edwards]

ayyyyy good for her! I've heard Edinburgh is BEAUTIFUL and really regret not applying and having a look around!

[@Gustavo-lz5mi]

I would enjoy to apply in Edinburgh too!! Best wishes :)

[@ramengurung9913]

nancy stitt English Literature? Oof it’s very hard to find a job if u major on that subject, but I can’t judge people for pursuing their passion

[@dressinggown9580]

Sampada Gurung actually not true at all. I did English literature and I am now a trainee at a magic circle law firm in London. All my friends have gone on to work in journalism, the civil service, finance, accountancy and academia. It’s more important to do what you love and jobs will come.

[@alexandervandijk7858]

Applied for History at Oxford, to the same college, was there at the same time as you. Got rejected as well :') But hey that's their loss - I'm at UCL now and am loving every single day here!

[@jack_edwards]

ahhhh probably saw you there and we had no idea! congrats on getting into UCL though, that's maaaad

[@davies010]

Alexander van Dijk how’s history going?

[@sz8138]

Damn i wish I could enjoy UCL as much as you do😂🤪

[@sibionic]

I love the fact that everyone who fails to get in the university they applied for describes it as 'their loss' - !

[@saintetienne755]

And the moral of the story is ... you must understand life won't always go the way you expect - you must, must be flexible in your approach to almost everything

[@jack_edwards]

L O V E T H I S (can you come and sit with me whenever I film and just sum up the video with a powerful quote like this at the end every time????)

[@saintetienne755]

'Your mission if you wish to accept it' LOL.

[@saintetienne755]

It's good to be focused and determined but not good to set your heart on one thing. What happens if you fail? If you train to be a doctor and begin to struggle understand you have so many choices within healthcare. Always have a plan B

[@kavyaagarwal2959]

I got rejected from Oxford this morning, and your videos give me hope that life goes on regardless. thank you for your content.

[@fardin4011]

Hey, i have a question did you apply for oxford while you where giving a levels or after you finished a levels? Like how does it work im in o levels and i have no idea

[@elolpenny]

So refreshing to hear someone talk about rejection as something not to be ashamed or embarrassed about! Awaiting my impending rejection on wednesday.. I feel like I'm in exactly the same situation as you were! My interviews were rubbish and I had so set my heart on Oxford, but i feel like I've already come to terms with it.. kind of! Might see you at Durham next year!

[@jack_edwards]

I feel like the whole concept of rejection is such a taboo, but actually, in hindsight, it isn't always the worst thing in the world! Fingers crossed for you on Wednesday. If things don't go to plan, then Durham would be lucky to have you 😊

[@elolpenny]

Thanks so much!! Love all your videos by the way- I've taken so much inspiration for interrailing this summer from Off the Rails!

[@eliadacirlan1359]

Did you get in? I have my interview on 5th of December.. I am so nervous.

[@saihanmarshall5287]

Well, answer the question. Did you get in?

[@manavgupta522]

Did you get in?

[@mssw6610]

Glad that I see this video. My son just got rejected from Oxford today and he is really sad. He can watch and might make him feel better. He applied for Physic course and at the New College as well. He loves that place and he said Harry Porter was filming there.

[@teasee2210]

Jack, you have such a beautiful soul

[@jack_edwards]

I'M NOT CRYING MY EYES JUST STARTED TO LEAK A LIL BIT (ps thank you this is the loveliest thing to say ever)

[@lizbrooke5195]

THIS THIS THIS THIS

[@alicedoesphysics]

Hi Jack! I had a similar experience the year before you (although I didn't even make it to interview!) - and I also used the rejection as motivation to work harder in Year 13 and come out with A*A*A*, which meant I ended up at Lancaster with two scholarships. I agree that it's really weird thinking about how things could have turned out differently and you could have not met the people who are now your closest friends! Good on you for making this video - I know I'd have loved to see it a couple of years ago, and I'm sure it'll help everyone who watches it. And I'm really glad you're having a brilliant time at Durham! 😊 x

[@jack_edwards]

TWO scholarships bladdy hell - you're incredible! Congratulations! Sounds like Lancaster is lucky to have you and Oxford clearly missed a trick!

[@alicedoesphysics]

Aw, thank you! 💛 Could definitely say the same about you - Oxford's loss, but Durham gained a wonderful student 😊 x

[@stardust4001]

Did you apply to cambridge or imperial?

[@samiyahcorelli7688]

Amazing! If you don't mind me asking, what scholarships did you win?

[@foyekealayande2096]

Hi pls what schorlarship did you get

[@tibees]

I don't think going somewhere prestigious for undergrad is really worth it, it would be more worth it for postgrad.

[@marwa1698]

I'm applying for physics to all universities and I'm really stressed for American unis I'm thinking for regular actions but for oxford and Cambridge just hearing about rejections give me stress and anxiety not to apply

[@josephbrennan370]

I did not expect to find you here

[@samo5743]

This didn’t age well…

[@johnmission586]

@@samo5743 why?

[@paulthang9038]

Hey, I like your videos

[@IsThatBrandon]

Loved this video Jack! It’s sad you got rejected but you look like a smart guy and don’t let them put you down!!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@jack_edwards]

Ah thank you so much, Brandon! You're too kind ☺️

[@elaine378]

I genuinely really needed this video, I have been upset since Wednesday after hearing my rejection from The University of Cambridge. Thank you so much for giving me hope and a source of motivation to also prove that I can better than required!

[@jack_edwards]

Of course you can! Oxbridge openly admit that their admissions process will naturally always sometimes let some incredible people slip the net, so now you just have to prove that you are one of them!

[@vp9873]

Such a motivating video!!!! Oxford missed out anyway

[@jack_edwards]

Aw I'm glad you found it motivating, thank you! I think you'll find they dodged a bullet with me, but I appreciate the sentiment nonetheless, haha!

[@ellisha9034]

Thank you so, so, SO much for this video. I completely agree that the internet is oversaturated with success stories, and we need more people speaking out about things that don't go as planned. So thank you again. This came at a perfect time

[@jack_edwards]

I'm so glad this could help in even a small way, thank you so much for watching!

[@brundhaaa]

I just love how positive you are about the whole thing💗

[@jack_edwards]

I guess after a while all you really can do is smile and laugh about it! Thank you for watching ☺️

[@globetrottinglottie522]

Who actually wouldn't accept you though? Their loss babe xxx

[@jack_edwards]

to be fair I did a pretty good job of accidentally convincing them not to accept me - my performance in those interviews was abysmal 😂 thank you so much though, you're too kind!

[@evilvhs2728]

Lottie Gibbons Jesus wouldn't because this boy worships the devil and is evil.

[@hypermangi8265]

@@evilvhs2728 WHO WORSHIPS THE DEVIL? ANSWER ASAP!

[@IXINE-mq7vp]

Oxford 😂😂

[@shamsmehdi3725]

well Oxford wouldnt and I am sure they dont regret shit. Love the video though.

[@Emilybailey889]

I live in Oxford, we missed out not having you here. It's very good of you to share a story that isn't a success story, but showing that you're happy now regardless of what Uni you go to! x

[@jack_edwards]

Ahhhh you're so lucky to live there - what a BEAUT city!

[@ilgncebioglu1352]

What you just said completely described how i feel... All those others who had done mocks and etc. This video just made me feel so much better and i felt even happier to hear that you are at Durham. You really deserve all the best. I would be so happy to meet you next year!

[@jack_edwards]

Ahhh are you coming to Durham? You'll love it!

[@jamietoms7659]

I am dreading Wednesday so thank you so much for this comforting video! Durham is my second choice for English literature, Cambridge being my first, so I’m pleased that you’re doing so well in Durham. Woo go jack

[@reegankay9799]

Jamie Toms Durham is actually number 1 in the country for English! Wishing you the best of luck with whatever you end up doing :)

[@jack_edwards]

AYYYY - good luck! Wishing you all the best for Cambridge but, if not, then let me just say that I cannot recommend Durham enough!

[@sena1348]

Your voice is so calming. I am in my final year of university and so I don’t really need to watch this but I was just taken by your story

[@jack_edwards]

Haha, thank you so much for watching anyway - much appreciated!

[@orueom7720]

I concur with what you said bout social media being over saturated with success stories man.... sometimes I can't take it tbh Best of luck in the path you've chosen 👊

[@jack_edwards]

thank you so much ☺️

[@elexneonabingdon]

Although I admire your attitude I think it’s worth mentioning that Oxford is 50% private school. You’re a state school student who got way higher than the entry requirements. Almost guaranteed to be more privileged students there who got in and were less qualified than you are, and as you mention they would have been given far more preparation than state schools provide. So you could say you’re not a failure, you’re a victim of the class system. Whether you go to Oxbridge, or you get rejected, or neither, it’s fair enough to acknowledge the level of injustice in the education system.

[@jack_edwards]

I agree that there is definitely a huge divide between state / private school applicants, but I'd say this is only really came into play in the interview process, when some of the people had been trained for years to know exactly what to do / say, whereas I had no clue haha!

[@samiyahcorelli7688]

Well if you prove yourself at interviews and stuff there's literally no stigma. I'm a random chick from a grammar school from a minority background and haven't done anything super duper amazing and I got an offer. Yes there's lots of private school people but there's also normal people like me :)

[@samiyahcorelli7688]

Jack Edwards but yeah private school people are heavily coached you're right. But they are aware of this and take into account your potential, not how polished you are.

[@elexneonabingdon]

The numbers speak for themselves. Around 8% of students overall go to private schools, then around 50% of Oxford students are from private schools. There's no way private school students have that much more potential than state school students. Oxford and Cambridge have become less biased over the years but they still need to do better.

[@haroldfrogspawn]

What should be done to correct this do we think? There were outreach programs to my college ( a state sector college) which aimed to encourage applicants to apply to Oxbridge from the state sector in the north. My teachers were just as dedicated and enthusiastic as any private school teacher. There is even a factoring in of lower GCSE grades coming from individuals who attended schools which are underperforming compared to the average school. From my perspective, my interview was very difficult to prep for, and what could have been done had been suggested by my History teacher( I applied to History at Oxford BTW). I don't believe that there are any class based decisions on who does and does not get in.

[@lifewithdylan]

the start is so true g

[@jack_edwards]

☺️

[@divyanshbhatt5918]

Wow. This is one of the most motivating videos. Thanks Jack Edwards for this video

[@jack_edwards]

You are more than welcome!

[@divyanshbhatt5918]

😊😊😊

[@bethjadeldn5505]

I have so much respect for how positive you’re being about it, I never hear people talking about their academic rejections and it makes me feel less alone ❤️

[@nityathawani2112]

This video notification popped up just as I was frantically researching Uni courses and course content etc; and I can honestly say I feel so much more reassured and calm after watching this, it's one thing to hear from a teacher that failure is not the end of the world, but when it comes from someone a bit closer to your age I think it undoubtedly resonates more, thanks Jack, and it's great to see how you're enjoying your first year at Durham :)

[@jack_edwards]

AH this makes the whole thing worthwhile - thank you so much for this comment! Best of luck with your uni application 😊

[@halba6357]

I'll put this video in my Watch Later playlist for when Oxford rejects me... :)

[@jack_edwards]

For the first time ever, I sincerely hope that you never end up watching this video, haha!

[@lizbrooke5195]

Jack you're so adorable

[@drinkwatergoodforhealth6101]

Did you got rejected? Lmao

[@annachovhan]

Oh, that's what happened to me today! I have just found out that I'm rejected. But this video has helped me a lot.

[@erins1333]

@@annachovhan me too!! lmao it’s fine it’s their loss, we’ll do great things regardless

[@victoriajade912]

You're so positive! I was rejected yesterday so this was so nice to watch :)

[@jack_edwards]

Sorry to hear that, but I guarantee you'll love wherever you go and flourish there!

[@victoriajade912]

Thank you :) today I'm trying my best to figure out what to do now :)

[@roseb7399]

Similar thing happened to me for my undergrad. Ended up at my insurance choice, had the best time and am now doing my PhD at Oxford. Life has a funny way of working out :)

[@ish3619]

Thank you for making this video, I got rejected from Oxford before the interview stage this year which was quite hard to take. It seems like everyone on youtube got accepted and this video just makes it seem more normal. Thankfully my offer from Durham came through shortly after my rejection from Oxford, and hopefully i'll be able to go there next year.

[@jack_edwards]

I know exactly what you mean - don't worry, I'm here to get the Oxbridge rejects party started 💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻💃🏻 Durham will be lucky to have you!

[@sabbyrinawbu]

This video is really lovely. I’m sorry that you went through the struggle that you went through but am glad that you can look back at it and reflect and see that the journey lead you to a place that you’re happy with. And yes, failure is such a normal part of life and it’s hard to always see other people publicise their success but in order to get to those places, we often have to struggle and that’s something that we don’t always see. ❤️

[@jack_edwards]

This is such a beautifully worded comment, thank you so very much 💗

[@HL-nl9eu]

thank you for this honest video! you don't know how grateful I am

[@jack_edwards]

Aw the pleasure is all mine - I hope you enjoyed!

[@JacquelineBeaulieu]

Good on ya for sharing about this experience. I know it will help so many students. It is difficult for hard working, high performing students to find themselves in these types of situations. For what its worth, rejection in academia is very normal, especially in post grad studies and academic careers. If you choose to continue as a post grad, it’s frequent that you have grant proposals, conference papers, and journal manuscripts rejected before they are later accepted. It gets easier as you go- even those amazing profs at Oxford... they’ve all received rejections as well. Possibly as recent as last week 😊. We just might not know about it.

[@someone-wx2ys]

All I want to say about this video is THANK YOU honestly for the way you showed that rejection is normall and it's not the end in a world that pushes you to be perfect beyond your limits and I too truly believe that life should have no regret at all because every path you walk in is meant for you and you should love it the way it is ❤

[@jack_edwards]

Aw what a lovely comment - the pleasure is all mine! I agree wholeheartedly with every word you said 👏🏼

[@flubadubdubthegreat1272]

This helped me a lot. I didn't even apply to Oxbridge, but I've felt pretty much worthless and inferior for the past few months because I feel so dumb. So thanks

[@evieplayfoot-orme6774]

You've got such a lovely air about you- this is so reassuring without being overly positive, nice to watch as I'm just waiting to find out if I've got into Cambridge for English. Whatever happens I'm sure it will be fine, like it was for you. Xx

[@abbiemoisey9078]

This has made me feel so much better for my interviews at the end of jan. every thing happens for a reason is what I am going to tell myself !!

[@jack_edwards]

GOOD LUCK! YOU'LL SMASH IT!

[@haleemakhatoon7202]

"She asked me to recite a line of iambic pentameter and I just went blank...verse"

[@SaintsBro217]

Just got rejected. Funnily enough I got offers from literally everyone I picked BUT Oxford. Considering I actually live in Oxford, it bums me out because I was hoping I could stay close to home. Guess I gotta go with somewhere else, unless I pick Brookes or something.

[@jack_edwards]

To be totally honest, I think moving out and living somewhere new on your own is just as valuable an education as the course itself. Maybe moving away from your hometown will be the best thing to happen to you? I think things have a funny way of working out! Wishing you all the best 💙

[@beigelover95]

Its meant to happen .

[@andrewcorrie8936]

Iambic pentameter: isn't that basically give me a line from Shakespeare?

[@amandamakesstuff1383]

Thank you for this💗 I haven't applied to Oxbridge but I'm still terrified that I won't get into my top choice uni! I'm so in love with the course, the uni and everything and I can't imagine myself anywhere else, but this is reassuring for when/if I ever get my answer!

[@jack_edwards]

I know exactly how you feel, all I can tell you is that fate has a funny way of working things out and I guarantee you'll absolutely adore the university you end up at!

[@sammartin8992]

Bit late to the party but I completely fluffed my A-levels, ended up going to Swansea through clearing and didn't want to leave at the end. Even if you don't get your first choice it really isn't the end of the world. Hope this helps!

[@mysterywoman8158]

You're such a positive and motivational soul:) keep rocking!!!!!

[@jack_edwards]

Aw I love that! Thank you so so much :)

[@reeveganatra2877]

Got my Durham rejection recently for economics :( holding out hope for Cambridge and LSE though!

[@jack_edwards]

Ah sorry to hear that! Fingers crossed Cambridge and LSE won't be so stupid to let you slip the net!

[@elfmas]

did you get in?

[@DarkHallwayz]

reeve ganatra *well? we’re waiting...*

[@CharlieVane21]

@@DarkHallwayz Reeve is doing cooking at Scunthorpe Polytechnic

[@maryamaseeker6248]

OMGGGG I LOVE HOW REAL THIS GUY IS. I WISH I KNEW HIM IN RL. OHGODDD

[@supriyabisht5637]

Want to drop a message thanking you for particularly one point you point at in the end about failure is an opportunity to reset. I got my first Posgrad essay grade and I just managed to pass it. Entirely disappointed by my grade since I hadn't received anything like that in many years, I pondered about it for two days, but listening to these words actually made me realise how this change of grade isn't a definition of me but rather how change of the education system requires me to reassess my methods and develop my understanding skills. Thanks 🙂

[@rowank445]

Wow this video is so helpful. I applied to Oxford this year for Maths and got rejected even before the interviews. I really agree with you that it is an emotional journey, I dedicated so much of my life to getting into Oxford, to no avail. I am also hoping to go to Durham this year instead, and this has really helped me to move on from the massive disappointment that was the rejection. Thanks again

[@jack_edwards]

Ah I'm glad this was reassuring! I know that feeling of having to reconsider after the dream of going to Oxford didn't work out, but trust me when I tell you that Durham is a brilliant university and literally the most fun I've ever had!

[@rowank445]

Jack Edwards That’s great thank you, I’ll look forward to it!

[@SA-ub8ij]

I needed to hear this. Regardless of what happens on Wednesday life really does go on- I'll have to keep this in mind

[@jack_edwards]

Please do! I've got everything crossed for you, but whatever happens I guarantee you'll be happy in the long run 😊

[@alejandraperez1130]

I love how honest and authentic you have always been

[@triciarobins4100]

Jack, you are inspirational - bright, refreshingly positive, resilient. You deserve to and will do so well in life. "Good comes of everything" and you are living proof of that. Enjoy Durham and live the life you dream!! Wishing you every success from here in Australia.

[@alexandra.gracee]

*high fives* Fellow Oxford reject here - knew I'd failed when about a minute into my Chemistry interview I forgot the formula for hydochloric acid and knocked a glass of water all over the paper they were supposed to take in to review what I'd written...worked out fine in the end as I'm now in my 2nd year at Edinburgh doing Law! Oxford may have dodged a bullet with me haha, but they sure missed out on not accepting you! We must've interviewed at roughly the same time - which college did you apply to? Forgive me if I missed it in the video!

[@jack_edwards]

Oh god they definitely dodged a bullet with me too. Ah well, looks like we're both enjoying doing other things anyway! I applied to New College :)

[@shrijasheth6576]

I think you give a motivation for all those who are despondent by failures even after working too hard for their goals and I actually appreciate how you value this experience and take it so positively for your future goals... Thanks! loved it!

[@phoebewinter6747]

Got my rejection today :( I was pooled and had 5 interviews which was a brilliant experience so absolutely gutted but fingers crossed for Durham! I definitely relate to getting so absorbed into the process- I’ve been envisaging the idea of it going well for a long time so it sucks, but as you said, life goes on :) x

[@simrankaurkang106]

I cannot relate to this more, the EXACT same thing happened to me last year and it has took me a long long long time to deal with, it made me feel very unworthy but having taken a gap year and finally reapplied to other universities I thing I’ve finally overcome it, nice to see some reality about the whole process and this really helps people like me who got so far through the process and then fell at the last hurdle 💜

[@jack_edwards]

Yes! I think it's such a taboo being the one who doesn't quite make it despite making it so far in the process, so I really wanted to chat about it! Hope you're having a fab (and much-deserved) gap year :)

[@simrankaurkang106]

Jack Edwards thank you so much !! And yes the gap year is going kinda well, just working, but at least I won’t be a poor uni student (for a few weeks anyway) 😂😂 love the vids, keep inspiring

[@taasiat3045]

have been playing this on loop on and off for the past 24 hours ... thank you for this video jack, i really needed this

[@schadenfreude9320]

I also applied to oxford for English Literature this year (2020) and I had an interview which was crazy, because I didn't expect to get one! But now I'm waiting to hear back and was incredibly anxious, but after watching this I feel so much better, and now I feel a lot more hollistic and calm ig so thanks!!!

[@jonahbabei6883]

How did it go? I have my Cambridge English interview in a few weeks

[@samiyahcorelli7688]

So cool of you to do this. Very important to show people what the other side is like, and to show that failure is a key route on the path to success!

[@meganmcelhone9937]

This is such a motivating video, I'm so worried about my general future and especially uni, even though I'm not quite there yet! Thanks for reminding us it's not a disaster to have a slight track derail, and more importantly SHOWING us through your mindset and videos🙌! Much love💖💖

[@jack_edwards]

ah don't be worried - you'll love wherever you choose to go I guarantee! having a slight derail doesn't have to be a disaster as long as you put in the work to get back on track 💪🏼

[@TwinGeeks]

I like the way you just accepted it with good grace and moved on. I've seen people on youtube and in real life take one or two gap years and keep applying each year as they can't give up the dream. You're showing people that a plan B can be just as good, and sometimes it's best to just put all your energy in to changing direction and making the most of it.

[@sugarcandy4639]

The greatest thing is that you tried, the stigma behind oxford and Cambridge typically scares people from applying, feeling that only the ‘greatest’ and the most ‘smartest’ are only allowed entry. It’s an accomplishment in itself to try and test new opportunities with no prejudice. 🐱🐱 😊

[@jack_edwards]

i just slammed the thumbs-up button on this comment, thank u

[@AmaliaTh]

I love how honest you are in this video! Congratulations though, even getting an interview is such an amazing achievement. Also congratulations for getting into Durham uni, wishing you all the luck

[@jack_edwards]

Thank you so much! I'd always prefer to keep it real rather than acting as if this huge part of my life didn't happen haha!

[@applejuice6616]

Thank you so much for this video, honestly it's motivated me in ways you can't imagine, i'm currently self teaching myself A Level biology and doing the exam privately, when i told my teacher, she straight up in my face said that i shouldn't do it because she's certain that i am going to be unsuccessful. It honestly baffled me, the fact a teacher who is supposed to see your effort and motivate you in your aspirations, could put you down so much. I've been stressing ever since she's said this, contemplating back and forth constantly whether i should carry on dedicating so much time and effort to actually do it. I stumbled upon your channel out of curiosity and i'm glad i did. I'm going to put my head down and prove her wrong, i CAN do this and i WILL get the best grade possible.

[@jack_edwards]

I did AS Biology and found it very difficult, but taught myself a lot of the course, and so what I'd say is that it DEFINITELY is possible. As long as you're determined and committed, I reckon you'll smash it out the ball-park 💪🏼💪🏼

[@applejuice6616]

Jack Edwards thanks so much! What grade did you get if you don’t mind me asking ? I did AS biology too in my first year but didn’t get a good enough grade to carry it on the next year. I feel like it was a real brave thing learning the A2 content by myself this year. In all honesty no one tells you how serious you need to take your first year, we all make mistakes but we learn and this shapes us, Ive never been so dedicated in my life, this stress is good stress. Thanks again for your support, I really appreciate it !! 💓

[@kwebs10]

The fact that you felt confident to apply to Oxford is itself an accomplishment. You must be an amazing student and incredibly bright. Ya know...we might have slaughtered the English language on this side of the Atlantic but we have some universities over here where you can study English Lit.! (and American Lit. too. We do have some good authors.)

[@directorkrennic6943]

DON'T WORRY THE DEATH STAR WILL TAKE CARE OF OXFORD

[@jack_edwards]

this made me chuckle, thank u

[@radhikarani4098]

Don't say that pls

[@annahoran5097]

"how does lolita start?" me: *guess listening to lana del rey paid off*

[@magdan.6053]

I almost cried with this testimony! I loved it! Your honesty and the way you explain it, is really helpful!

[@urso2424]

Your generous spirit gives me hope for the future of this world. I am so pleased to have seen your video. Thank you and the best for you, always.

[@csk81191]

can't agree with your positivity more! hope to see you around Oxbridge in the future, and thanks for your love to Oxford, it IS beautiful

[@awkwardambition9727]

I absolutely enjoyed your commentary about failure. You are certainly such a positive human being, and I love that about you, Jack! I am going through some tough times right now, academically speaking, but I will use my setbacks to empower me more now that I got an extra shot of confidence from you! :)

[@jack_edwards]

Definitely use the failure to motivate you to revise and focus in classes, it'll make all the differences I promise! I had a lot of setbacks in the build up to my exams, but what you need to remember is that you're not supposed to be perfect just yet - you've still got LOADS of time to smooth the edges! Honestly, it all falls into place by the time the exams come around if you're willing to work for it... YOU'VE GOT THIS 💪🏼

[@ellarose4587]

It’s an achievement in itself getting as far as a interview. Well done ☺️

[@jack_edwards]

Thank you! ☺️

[@nutellalatte7522]

You are too kind for Oxford. You are actually the cutest person ever! Never change Jack Edwards💕

[@gracelilley857]

Just got rejected from Cambridge but I have an offer from durham ! Thanks for the video. 😂👍

[@jack_edwards]

Ahhh I'm so sorry to hear that - their loss! Durham will very very lucky to have you and I hope you love it as much as I do!

[@gracelilley857]

Jack Edwards thank you! I loved it on the open day. What college are you?

[@saihanmarshall5287]

Grace Lilley He can’t say.

[@yousiflakho1771]

What grades you got at alevels

[@iriskonline4766]

Jack, you are an amazing individual!

[@tboaitey4884]

Thanks for keeping it real. I wish you all the best at Durham !

[@jack_edwards]

Aaaaaalways gotta be real! Thank you!

[@Chipgargoyle123]

I appreciate the video Jack. I applied to Oxford for medicine this year and got rejected before interview. I was gutted because this was always one of my targets in life but now this video has helped me.

[@jack_edwards]

So so sorry to hear about Oxford, but glad this video helped in some way! There are looooads of other options, you'll look back in a year and won't even worry about it!

[@andres.alegre]

“Lolita, light of my life, fire of my loins. My sin, my soul. Lo-lee-ta: the tip of the tongue taking a trip of three steps down the palate to tap, at three, on the teeth. Lo. Lee. Ta”.... please tell me you remembered it

[@mollywood8032]

This was such a good video jack, it’s so important to celebrate failure as well as success because without the former there would never be the latter and I feel like that is an idea neglected on the internet. So thank you so much for making this, was also my dream to attend Oxford but I’m now at University of Birmingham and couldn’t be happier, so glad you are as well x

[@jack_edwards]

Aw I absolutely love that - thank you so much! Glad you're loving Birmingham - I've heard such good things and kinda regret not going to have a look around! Oxford rejects unite 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@lisamilne8621]

Watching this on the 25th about to hear back from Cambridge! This is great motivation.

[@sameeha9326]

You didn't lose them.. they lost you xxx I love your videos so much 😘

[@jack_edwards]

Love this - thank you!

[@Sophiee0304]

Also an Oxford reject 2 years ago for languages and your experience sounds so similar to mine! After I was interviewed I kind of knew I wasn’t cut out for Oxford, wasn’t bitter at all for not getting in and I’m really grateful for the experience. Now at Bath and everything has worked out really well! Loved this video - rejection needs to be talked about more x

[@snowycrystalz101]

Thanks very much Jack for making this video. I just received my rejection from Oxford :( it was really reassuring to hear from someone who has been there that it's not all that bad! I appreciate it greatly. Also, I like your point about going ahead and getting better grades than required to prove them wrong! I'll be sure to use my rejection as motivation now thanks to you! :)

[@jack_edwards]

DO IT! It's the best feeling to look back in hindsight and think 'actually, I AM good enough' Sorry to hear you didn't get the result you were hoping for today, but I promise everything will work out! You've got this 💪🏼

[@snowycrystalz101]

Thanks! I appreciate it :)

[@WaitingForAStar2Fall]

Hey Jack, this is such a wonderful video! I've actually just graduated from Cambridge with a degree in Classics. Listening to you talk about your interview brought back so many memories of my own experience! If you ask me, they've missed out on an absolute gem with you. If you ever have any questions about life at Cambridge (for doing your master's there!) I'd be more than happy to talk about it! All the best at Durham, they are lucky to have you ⭐

[@jack_edwards]

Omg that's incredible - congratulations! I'm just about to start the classics module on the Durham English course (Oedipus Rex, Odyssey, Iliad, Republics, Metamorphoses etc) and I'm so excited as those texts have always fascinated me! Thank you so much for such a kind comment, you're lovely 🌟

[@faustine4624]

Thank you for making this. Failure is really a part of a success story

[@arlena3297]

You are such a positive and inspiring, honest person! Watching your videos always makes me happy. :)

[@jack_edwards]

MY EYES JUST STARTED LEAKING A LIL BIT

[@robfonseca1444]

Me watching this video for the first time in 2022, knowing that he actually applied for a masters in Oxford and was rejected… again: 🥺😢 I’m soooo sorry that you didn’t get to go to Oxford after all, Jack, but I’m super happy to see where life’s got you so far ❤️

[@sephwatson340]

Honestly, this video has made me feel so much better about how badly my Cambridge interview for Economics went and my subsequent rejection. I know I am good at the subject, but their style really does trip a lot of talented, dedicated and intelligent people up. Sometimes you do just panic.

[@t.woodruffe14]

I’ll need to re-watch this Wednesday to console myself 😂 EDIT: I acc didn’t get in so I’m back 😂

[@jack_edwards]

Wishing you all the best - fingers crossed you never have to re-watch!

[@jeanettenyatoro]

haha, me too 😢😅

[@t.woodruffe14]

Jeanette Nyatoro good luck!!!!

[@SofiaH]

thanks for this video!! it's rare to see videos about oxbridge rejection. at the end of the day, they're nice places, but not on a completely different level than other top unis

[@jack_edwards]

Agreed - all universities have their own stories and traditions, it's just finding the one that's perfect for you!

[@JBuns02]

Just sent off the personal statement:) will be back in January

[@priscillaose5772]

Their loss. Thanks for Sharing your story

[@jack_edwards]

the pleasure is all mine! thank you for watching and listening to my ramble haha!

[@reptilianmentality]

I have just got two unconditional offers from my favourite university (South Wales) doing sociology! So excited xo

[@surabhidhapare8700]

This was so motivating, Jack. I absolutely agree with the points you made. Failure should be seen in a positive light and eventually things will work out! Glad I found your channel haha x

[@jack_edwards]

Ah I'm glad you found my channel too! Thanks so much for watching :)

[@ark01000]

This is something that has hit home. I developed an illness that let to a year resit. I had weeks and weeks in hospital and alot more. This meant my results where less then good and it devastated me. Like I needed therapy. I though the worse and I’d end up on the street. Life may not go as expected but I ended up still getting into a uni. I’m currently waiting for freshers as we speak.

[@anneonymous9680]

his oxford rejection left him in a different dimension

[@elise_.y]

I got rejected from oxford for english lit yesterday, but i'm currently looking into Durham (as well as st andrews and edinburgh).. i applied for a second undergrad so i don't want to take a gap year as i'm already 'older' (22y) but this video helps a lot, thank you. Oxford knows how to shake you awake although you were/are convinced that it's your dream (and only) option

[@jack_edwards]

I definitely agree that they make it feel like it's your only option, especially as you spend so long within the admissions process - it kind of makes you forget all the other universities even matter! I'd highly recommend Durham, but I think you've got some spot-on options there!

[@elise_.y]

Jack Edwards would you be interested in doing a more in depth video on English at Durham? I would love to hear your opinion :)!

[@foyekealayande2096]

Hi...What uni are you in now and are you enjoying it

[@frauleinmarlenschka6891]

thank you so much for your honesty!!! it's not easy talking about failure

[@natashaheath3791]

There is a really important message behind this video, thank you 😊

[@rhianharrison5469]

Thank you so much for making this - I’ve been looking for someone talking about the other side of the Oxbridge process for so long and you literally couldn’t have said it better. I’m not really feeling confident for when oxford offers come out...

[@jack_edwards]

Aw I'm so glad - thank you, this is the exact response I was hoping for! I was in the exact same boat last year haha! I've got everything crossed for you, but if things don't go to plan then there are soooo many other options. Let me know how it goes :)

[@rhianharrison5469]

Rejected unfortunately...all those years...all that hard work. But thank you for helping me realise it’s not the end of the world! Backup for me is probably Durham :)

[@nns7353]

This is an extremely motivating video and I just hope I can work as hard in my last year of school as you did! And you're so right, everything happens for a reason and it all turns out for the best💞

[@jack_edwards]

100000000%! You've got this 💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼💪🏼

[@nllionel4926]

What a fantastic attitude to life, refreshing. Needed to see this