An enriching experience at Oxford January 20, 2025
By A student (Economics, Wellesley College) - abroad from 09/09/2024 to 12/06/2024 with
Worcester College, University of Oxford - Visiting Students Program
My time at Oxford taught me how to think critically, manage my time effectively, and approach challenges independently. The tutorial system pushed me to develop my research and writing skills while articulating and defending my ideas during one-on-one discussions. Beyond academics, I gained a deeper appreciation for British culture and history through immersive experiences in the city.
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 2 weeks - 1 month |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
The academic experience at Oxford was both rigorous and intellectually rewarding. The tutorial system pushed me to engage deeply with topics, develop independent research skills, and think critically under the guidance of highly knowledgeable tutors. The pace was intense, with weekly essays requiring extensive reading and synthesis, but the resources available, including world-class libraries, made this challenge manageable and fulfilling. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
The on-site administration of the program was well-organized and supportive. The staff provided clear guidance on navigating academic requirements, and there was always someone available to address logistical or personal concerns. Orientation sessions were thorough, helping me settle into both the academic and social aspects of life at Oxford. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
I was very satisfied with my living arrangements at Worcester College. My room was spacious and comfortable, with access to college facilities like the dining hall and common rooms. The picturesque campus added to the experience, creating a peaceful and inspiring environment for study. |
| * Food: |
The food was adequate, with a mix of options available in the college dining hall. While the quality varied, it was convenient and reasonably priced. |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Oxford’s vibrant community made it easy to integrate socially and culturally. From participating in college events to joining student societies, I had many opportunities to meet both local students and fellow international students. The city itself, with its rich history and cultural offerings, provided endless exploration opportunities. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
The healthcare system was effective and accessible. |
| * Safety: |
I always felt safe during my time in Oxford. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
No
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
I would rate this a 3.5. While Oxford is not as expensive as cities like London, certain costs, such as eating out, social activities, and transportation for trips, added up quickly. |
Language
| * Did your program have a foreign language component? | No |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
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* Who did you live with?
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* Who did you take classes with?
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A Look Back
| * What did you like most about the program? |
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| * What could be improved? |
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| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | I wish I had known more about the academic intensity of the tutorial system and the importance of time management. |
