Oxford University Societies
Starting at the University of Oxford next week studying Philosophy, Politics and Economics. I'm a US born student who is looking to break in in London due to family circumstances. I've heard various societies exist within Oxford but not too sure what I should join - is there any current Oxford students or industry professionals who can give some colour on the various societies in Oxford and what their industry reputation is?
Thanks :)!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, Oxford University offers a plethora of societies that can significantly enhance your networking and career prospects, especially if you're aiming to break into finance or related industries in London. While specific societies aren't explicitly mentioned in the dataset, here are some general tips:
Finance and Business Societies: Look for societies focused on investment banking, private equity, or consulting. These groups often host networking events, invite industry professionals for talks, and provide resources for technical preparation.
Debating and Public Speaking Societies: Joining the Oxford Union, one of the most prestigious debating societies in the world, can be a game-changer. It not only hones your public speaking skills but also connects you with influential individuals across various industries.
Identity-Based and Interest Groups: Similar to the identity-based groups mentioned for Duke (e.g., Business Oriented Women, Black in Business), Oxford likely has equivalent societies that can provide a supportive community and targeted networking opportunities.
Political and Economic Societies: Given your PPE focus, societies related to politics and economics can be invaluable. They often attract high-profile speakers and provide platforms for engaging discussions.
International and Cultural Societies: As a US-born student, joining international or cultural societies can help you build a diverse network and adapt to the UK environment.
Alumni and Networking Events: Many societies have strong alumni networks that can be leveraged for mentorship and job opportunities.
Make sure to attend the Freshers' Fair to explore all the options and speak directly with society representatives to understand their offerings and industry reputation. Good luck at Oxford!
Sources: Duke Guide: Tips and Info on What to Do at Duke if Interested in Business/Finance at Duke, Wharton WITG - SSG vs Tacops vs Industrials, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?,
Oxford has a bunch of societies that have some presence in the finance space so it can def be difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. That being said, just to give an overview on each:
The genuine finance societies w/ competitive applications, programmes, and competitions:
1. CapitOx - most longstanding one at Oxford. Operates both a buy-side fund and sell-side M&A group. I did the academy and it was super helpful + they get teach ins from their sponsors. They weren't as strong in like 2022, but have made a massive comeback since and are probably the biggest player now.
2. Oxford Alpha Fund - Honestly were probably on top until last year; like CapitOx in that they focus on teaching you the skills and are honestly good as well. They don't run every term and there's been stagnation since I've been here, but still a good team of leaders. Only buy side though, so there's that.
I'm biased given I stuck around in CapitOx and things like committee destinations and whatnot are simply better, but they're both sponsored by the same companies, teach similar things, etc. so honestly join what you can. OAF has things like the varsity pitch competition vs CapitOx has the International Open, so two peas in a pod type of ordeal. What you gotta remember (and I can't stress this enough) is that ultimately these societies play second fiddle to your experience, internships, etc. in London, but they're a great place to build those skills and stand out amongst the crowd.
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The events focused orgs:
1. Oxford Finance Society - They are purely events focused, and credit to them as they pull some massive names (I always try to go). Attending events and whatnot is always super helpful, but the work itself is just doing marketing and outreach. I think they started a fund this year but fwiw its probably well behind the two above.
2. OxWIB - More business focused in general, and women in business in particular. Pretty large presence but also mainly events focused.
3. OxWIF - Same as above but more focused on finance.
I was recently at Oxford and am not as sure about this. Capitox seems to have always played second-fiddle to the Oxford Alpha Fund. Looking at both websites and Linkedins tells a different story - that the Oxford Alpha Fund is sponsored by more firms and has stronger placements than Capitox. It was well known in Oxford that pretty much almost anyone in Capitox Finance leadership was either rejected/left the Oxford Alpha Fund or didn't convert their programmes. Capitox however is incredibly solid for Consulting and does a fantastic job there with great clients and a great programme.
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re: placements and exits. Just pound for pound, OAF current committee has zero buyside placements, which is especially strange given they’re buyside only. As for their sell side placements, OAF got no one at the big 3 while even OFS does so not sure what you are on about.
This is such a weird cherry picked comment. OAF has 2 Evercore and 1 PJT NYC placement, Optiver, Citadel, Ardea out of the top 6.
These are all top tier firms. CapitOx current committee, half the people haven’t done any internship despite being final year.
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