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DPhil student Latt Mansor tells us about competing in the Varsity Match - Ballroom against Cambridge. Although not strictly science, dancing requires concentration, attention to detail and commitment to his partner, Emily Sergeant (Kellogg College).

I'm a third year student from Malaysia studying for a DPhil with Professor Kieran Clarke in Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics.

I have always wanted to learn to dance, but there was never the opportunity to take lessons. When I started my DPhil studies in Oxford, knowing I would be in Oxford 3/4 years, I decided to try dancesport, it gave me the chance to learn something new and exciting. I joined the beginners team in 2011/12 and progressed to the main team the following year.

This year I represented Oxford in the Varsity match, and having never danced before 2011, I am delighted with this achievement. Having fulfilled the requirements, I hope to be awarded a Half Blue later this year.  

Joining Dancesport has helped me sustain a great work-life balance as both my research and dancing require focus, consistency and dedication. At the end of my study I will be very proud to leave Oxford with a DPhil, and second skill that I can continue to use for the rest of my life.

Latt Mansor Varity Match© Karen Galloway

Image courstesy of Karen Galloway.