A Rigorous but Rewarding and Unforgettable Experience! Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The academics at Oxford is very intense and I would recommend it only if you'd like to be academically challenged during your study abroad year. It could be a bit overwhelming if you were expecting something less than the average workload at Wellesley. The Oxford's unique tutorial system is definitely rigorous but it helps you to improve your research and writing skills. It also gives you an opportunity to have interactions with your tutor in a new way, totally different from the American academic system. Although Bodleian library system can be quite complicated and it takes a while to get used to it, it is undoubtedly a great resource for research. Moreover, I really enjoyed diverse learning experiences that Oxford offers, such as, lecture series and conferences, and also cultural experiences, including, museum nights and musical concerts.

On-site administration of your program

At the beginning of the term, Mansfield College organized several orientation sessions, which gave visiting students an introduction to the Oxford University and some basic information about the college. Throughout the year, there were events (e.g. Thanksgiving dinner, Farewell Reception, etc.) organized for the visiting students. Also, the director of the study abroad program at Mansfield College was very organized and she was always willing to help. She was able to help me with the selection of courses and other concerns related to the program.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

I lived in an off-site accommodation, Dale (Ablethorpe site) on Dawson Street. Although Dale is nice since all the visiting students live here together and its proximity to restaurants, shops and groceries is convenient, it can also be a bit isolating since it's far away from the college (15-20 min. walk), where the rest of the local students live.

The food at college is okay but sometimes it can feel like it’s a bit overpriced given its amount and quality. However, the food at formal dinner is usually nice. Since the college is about 15 minutes away from the accommodation site, it's difficult to have every meal at college. I usually either cooked in the communal kitchen in Dale (Ablethorpe) or went out to eat.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Mansfield has a tradition of having college families (i.e. college mom and dad) and these college family members are very friendly and helpful. However, sometimes you can feel a bit disconnected from the wider college community due to the location of the off-site accommodation.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

GP (general practice), which is very close to the Ablethorpe site, is located on Cowley Road. When I was sick, I was able to see the doctor there after making an appointment and get medicines.

I think Oxford is a pretty safe city overall.

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

It was not too difficult to live on a student's budget. Groceries at markets, such as, Tesco and Sainsbury's, are usually a bit cheaper than in America so I was able to get a bunch of fruits, vegetables, eggs, dairies, etc. (which would then last for about 5-6 days) when I wanted to cook. Also, I think I was usually able to eat out at a reasonable price in Oxford.

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans
• International Students

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• Local Students

• Academics - tutorials and tutors
• City of Oxford - overall atmosphere/environment + British culture
• Rich resources - libraries, museums, etc.

• Integration between visiting and local students