The History department selected me and Sophia Georghiou to represent Wren Academy at the McWhirter Conference at Trinity college, Oxford, on 14 and 15 March 2017.

The theme of this year's conference was 'Brave New Britain', so all four lectures and the final panel activity were focused on Brexit and its undeniable effect on the country today. Following each lecture, Sophia and I joined our designated syndicate groups for a seminar.

The most memorable event was the 'Evening Dinner' on our first night, which required delegates of each school to dress in their best clothes and attend a formal dinner consisting of specific seating arrangements and a five star restaurant service throughout the night. The food was splendid and, despite not knowing who we were seated next to at first, we managed to have engaging conversations. After dinner, we were ushered into the 'cellar' where a band called OUTLYA played live for an hour or so before students started trickling out into their own rooms.

Overall, the experience was truly unforgettable. We made many new friends during our stay and learned more than we expected from the lectures, syndicate leaders but, most importantly, our peers. If an opportunity similar to this ever arises, I recommend you apply because, despite your uncertainties, the end result may be worth it.

Diana Savtsuk