Julian Tan
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Julian Tan is Vice President of the Cambridge University Students’ Union – International (iCUSU). He grew up in Malaysia for most of his life and is an avid campaigner for international integration after having spent over 5 years in the UK.

He graduated with a BA and an MEng from the University of Oxford in 2011 and is currently pursuing a PhD in Materials Engineering at the University of Cambridge. He hopes that through his written pieces, he can discuss real issues affecting international students in the UK in an honest and raw fashion.

Blog Entries by Julian Tan

Dear Malaysia, Democracy Should Be Easier

(20) Comments | Posted April 28, 2013 | 7:50 PM

"It's not on the list," said the lady in the pink floral scarf.

"What do you mean?" I firmly asked, trying my hardest to suppress the imminent trembling in my voice.

"Your name - it isn't on the list," she said monotonically, pushing her bifocals along the bridge of her...

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The Boston Marathon Explosions: We Will Win, You Will Lose

(5) Comments | Posted April 17, 2013 | 7:00 PM

I opened Twitter. BBC Breaking News tweeted, "US media report two explosions near finish line of Boston Marathon (28 minutes ago)."

#prayforboston was trending.

I immediately thought to myself, 'Not again... '

What is it about the human race that breeds such contempt - contempt so strong that motivates the...

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Oxford or Cambridge - Which Is Better? Does It Matter?

(2) Comments | Posted April 10, 2013 | 7:00 PM

Oxbridge, the portmanteau of the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge has for centuries, produced world-changing ideas and people that have gone on to mould the course of human history.

Oxford, the city of dreaming spires has bred 48 Nobel laureates, over 60 heads of state and government,...

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Why I Am Glad I Was Spanked as a Child

(143) Comments | Posted March 13, 2013 | 7:00 PM

I grew up in a typical Asian household. My dad was boss and his words were law, I always cleaned my plate (disliking broccoli or being too full risked me listening to a long lecture on the dying children of Africa), school was my only priority and cake for dessert...

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How University Taught Me To Be Patriotic

(0) Comments | Posted January 25, 2013 | 3:03 PM

It is 7:25am in a quiet suburban city in Selangor, Malaysia. Sitting by a bench in my school cafeteria, I rummage through the many contents of my Adidas backpack to fish out a navy blue necktie. I quickly drape it around my collar and tie it into a knot to...

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A First Class Degree From Oxbridge - So What?

(34) Comments | Posted November 11, 2012 | 6:00 PM

In my graduation gown and subfusc, I tensely stood before the vice chancellor of Oxford University. With both my parents proudly looking on, the dean of my college held up my hand as she led my graduating class through the ceremony. A few sentences in Latin later, we all solemnly...

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Why Are Asians at University So Anti-Social?

(23) Comments | Posted October 7, 2012 | 7:00 PM

I am Asian and five years ago, I flew on my first international flight alone. With three packed suitcases and a one-way ticket to the United Kingdom, I was bursting with excitement and anxiety. What awaited me at Oxford University, I hadn't the slightest clue. But one thing was certain...

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