An Andover school has welcomed back their former head boy as he discussed his time at Oxford University to help other students.

Mark Todd returned to Harrow Way School last week after graduating with a Masters degree in physics. Mark wanted to challenge the perception that Oxford University can have, encouraging all students to apply.

“People have an impression that Oxford is full of secret societies and elitist groups, but this wasn't my experience at all,” he said. “I think it was a great opportunity, and not just academically.”

Mark’s journey to university began with a fascination for science fiction, which led him to develop a passion for physics. He says that he was hesitant about applying to Oxford at first, deeming it ‘unbelievable’.

“If someone had said to me when I was at school, one day I would be a University of Oxford graduate, I'm not sure I'd have believed it!” he said. “I suppose I just took things one step at a time - if you concentrate on each small goal then it seems easier.”

However, he says that the support he got from teachers at Harrow Way, as well as its approach to the curriculum, helped to find his route into university, and the topics he enjoyed.

“One thing I really liked about Harrow Way was the amount of subject choice we were given,” Mark said. “I was able to choose subjects I really enjoyed, and ultimately this meant I found myself studying not just for exams but because I liked what I was studying.

“At Oxford this was vital as I often found a direct correlation between my enjoyment of a topic, and my success in it!”

Mark was subsequently admitted to St Catherine’s College, the largest and newest of the undergraduate colleges at Oxford University. Mark says that his initial nerves over the University were assuaged once he arrived.

“Although being from a state school isn’t always common at Oxford, St Catherine's was very welcoming and I soon felt really at home there,” he said. “It was great to find people who shared an interest in a subject I enjoy, along with societies where people did the same hobbies.”

Mark enjoyed participating in a range of groups, including the Oxford Doctor Who Society, as well as getting to know people on his course.

“I'm glad to have made lots of friends I still keep in contact with,” he said, “as well as those I still have from Harrow Way.”

Mark is currently working for a software programming start-up, and is enjoying branching out from student life. He’s also considering taking a PhD in Physics while he explores his options for the future.

He said: “I suppose ultimately I think finding something you really enjoy is the most important thing, and that's what will drive my career.”

Commenting on the outstanding success of his former head boy, headteacher Michael Serridge said: “It was wonderful to see Mark again and hear of his time at Oxford. I hope his story will inspire Harrow Way students to believe in themselves and have the conviction to follow their dreams. We certainly give them a good grounding and quality all-round education that they are well placed and prepared to apply to the very top universities.”