Oxford interviews, and parents

[Squirrelface]

My daughter has to stay at an Oxford college for a few days for interviews. Does anyone know if the students usually arrive/check in alone, or would it be usual for a parent to go with them as far as their room to ensure that they have everything sorted out? She would be mortified to have me tagging along if everyone else arrives alone! (I do intend to go home once she is settled).

Oops, that was intended to be a reply to you gelatinous on the UCAS thread!

I caught the train by myself. Some people had their parents with them as in, in the same city, but no-one had their parents with them. This was 10 years ago now, thanks for reminding me :)

I wouldn't have minded if my parents have come...but it's ages away by train.

There were quite a few people with parents there- including one boy whose mum carried his stuff to the quad for him. He didn't seem embarrassed at all, it seemed perfectly normal.

Hi! I joined specifically to answer your question :D I had my interviews this week at Wadham College Oxford. I was perfectly happy to bring my dad in and give him a hug in front of all the other applicants in there - no one seemed to think it was weird. Taking both my parents would have been over the top, but that's just because they manage to attract attention when they're together (by arguing in loud whispers...)

You will go to the Porter's Lodge first and get a folder and your room key. Then you will have to go somewhere (possibly the JCR, possibly not - for Wadham it's the Okinaga room) with a desk to sign in with the helpers and check the board with the list of interviews. This was the point where I hugged my dad and then he left. The helper took me to my room. As soon as she'd gone I realised my camera was still in the car and had to ring Dad to come into the college with it ;)

But do what makes your daughter feel comfortable. If you're going by car then take her as far as the college at the very least. Stay in Oxford for half an hour afterwards in case she panics and needs you. If you're arriving on Sunday then a lot of roads will be closed for the Santa run so beware!

Good luck to all the interviewees, for the parents and for the interviewers. You are not forgotton sieglinde and donindisguise. My brood are back home and have had the most fantastic time of their lives so far- interviewees give it all you have because all the hard work is worth it as the academic and social opportunities are amazing. to those who contributed to a similar thread last year as this anxious mum found it invaluable and will never forget it.

Thanks for all your replies and suggestions. We've just returned from dropping daughter off by car. I helped her with her bags as far as the Porter's Lodge, and then wasn't needed any more! (we did see lots of parents going in though).
We did manage a peek at the beautiful college - I feel quite envious of her staying in such fantastic surroundings for a few days.