A Semester in the City of Dreaming Spires Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

Courses were extremely rigorous, and workload was intense. There were weekly essays due (and sometimes two per week). I had access to all Oxford libraries and online resources, which was a great help.

On-site administration of your program

The administration at St Catherine's College in Oxford was somewhat disorganized. While the staff were friendly and willing to help, there were blunders such as missed emails, forgetting to forward important information to visiting students, etc.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I had a single room without ensuite facilities. Since I was expecting a double room, I was very happy with this arrangement.

Although there isn't much choice, especially at dinner (three-course meals are served each night), the quality of food is good. It is good value for money as well.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

I have mixed feelings. While Oxford students are very intellectual and interesting to talk to, I didn't meet as many people as I could have, because I did not participate in the drinking and clubbing culture.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

Oxford is not a cheap city in terms of eating out, etc., but expenses could be reduced either by cooking your own meals (groceries are quite cheap) or eating at dining halls (meals are heavily subsidized and hence not expensive for students).

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• International Students

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• Other

• Tutorial system
• Access to libraries
• Nice living spaces

• Administration
• Helping Visiting Students meet local students
• Offering vacation residence for free (or at a lower cost)

The Academic or Linguist