MW Program

[CACanterbury]

Jancis-

Congratulations on the OBE - yet another fine distinction to add to a splendid list of achievements. And, thanks for any thoughts you might have to my inquiry:

I just received my application for the MW program. I anticipate beginning in January 2004 and look forward to the challenges and discoveries that lie ahead. A very broad question, indeed, but I will ask any way: do you have any particular advice for approaching this experience?

Many thanks.

[Jancis Robinson]

Thank you.

Firstly, congratulations on even thinking of tackling this task. Whether you eventually manage a full pass or not, I firmly believe that the activities of learning and studying themselves (in a subject in which one is interested of course) afre capable of giving you a sort of high, an intellectual version of the effects (I'm told) of strenuous physical exercise. You're bound to end up a much better informed person whatever happens. Poorer, yes. And it is vitally important to have the support of those whom you live and work with. To have to study apologetically and in snatched moments would be virtually impossible.

Although the structure of the course and exam were pretty different when I took the exam in 1984, I'm sure it's still true that forming a group of fellow students can be terribly helpful. Not only you divide up the research that needs doing and share research notes, you definitely need small tasting groups which can meet increasingly often as the exam draws near in which you can confidently make a fool of yourself as often as is possible. You can get to know which of you is the best at blind tasting and learn from them.

Almost everyone approaches the exam feeling unworthy and underprepared, but there's a heck of a lot of luck involved so it's usually worth having a go - unless your tutor/mentor tells you severely to save your money this time around.

As I pointed out recently on my site, taking the MW is a bit like scaling Everest. And now one MW has done both.

Wishing you the very best of luck.