Student Research Success on the International Stage

Oxford International College Students Achieve Outstanding Academic Publishing Success

Oxford International College is proud to celebrate the exceptional academic achievements of three of our students, whose research papers have been accepted for publication in recognised academic journals and international conferences. These accomplishments reflect the intellectual curiosity, independence, and scholarly ambition that define our academic community.

 

Exploring Culture and Mental Health: Angela Lin

Angela Lin has had her collaborative research paper accepted for publication, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey. The paper, “The Influence of Culture on the Expression and Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Through the Lens of Asia,” explores how cultural beliefs, traditions, and social norms shape the experience, diagnosis, and treatment of OCD across different Asian societies.

Drawing on psychological theory, cross-cultural research, and real-world case studies, Angela examines how religious practices, stigma, and traditional healing methods influence both the manifestation of symptoms and access to effective treatment. Her work highlights the limitations of Eurocentric approaches to mental health and makes a compelling case for culturally sensitive therapeutic frameworks.

The paper demonstrates not only impressive subject knowledge, but also academic maturity, critical thinking, and a strong awareness of global mental health challenges—qualities that underpin research at university level and beyond.

 

Challenging Economic Theory: Michael’s Published Research

Year 13 student Michael has already achieved the rare distinction of becoming a published academic researcher while still at college. His paper presents a sophisticated analysis of how behavioural economics challenges traditional neoclassical economic theory, drawing on insights from psychology and neuroscience.

Inspired by the work of Nobel Prize–winning economists Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky, Michael’s research grew out of his engagement with the college’s autumn term elective Risk and Return. Going far beyond the A Level syllabus, he explored how real human decision-making often deviates from purely rational economic models.

Michael’s achievement is notable not only for the publication itself, but for the intellectual independence and persistence behind it. His work exemplifies the spirit of enquiry and ambition that Oxford International College seeks to nurture, and his success stands as an inspiration to fellow students aiming to push beyond conventional academic boundaries.

 

Research on Faith and Psychology: Lola Zhang (Awaiting Publication)

We also congratulate Lola Zhang, whose paper has been accepted and is currently awaiting publication following an international peer-review process. Lola’s research, titled “Religious Beliefs and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Exploring Mutual Influences and Potential Roles in Symptom Development,” was accepted for presentation at the 4th International Conference on Interdisciplinary Humanities and Communication Studies (ICIHCS 2025).

The paper investigates the complex relationship between religious belief systems and OCD, examining how faith can both shape symptom expression and influence psychological coping mechanisms. Lola’s work was commended for its interdisciplinary approach, bridging psychology, humanities, and cultural studies.

Acceptance at an international conference following double-blind peer review is a significant academic achievement, and we look forward to celebrating the paper’s formal publication in due course.

 

A Culture of Academic Excellence

These achievements highlight the strength of Oxford International College’s academic environment—one that encourages curiosity, independent research, and engagement with complex global issues. We are immensely proud of Angela, Michael, and Lola, and we look forward to following their continued academic journeys as they progress to higher education and beyond.

Their success is a testament to what can be achieved when talented students are challenged, supported, and inspired to think deeply and ambitiously.