Oxford: Once in a Lifetime Experience Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It takes a little while to adjust to the tutorial system as it is very different from learning in the US. 5 of my tutorials were one-on-one, and I had one economics course, which was a mini-lecture of 5 or 6 students. During my tutorials, I would either have to submit my essay the night before, and my tutor and I would discuss the comments during the tutorial. Other tutors would have me read out my essay during the tutorial. Another tutor had me describe my essay, and then we would discuss everything that I didn't write about. The workload initially seems very heavy, but once you get used to the required reading and writing each week, it becomes much more manageable. In regard to grading, the UK uses a 100 scale, although a 70 mark is the equivalent of an A. Most of my tutors were very fair graders. Overall, Oxford requires you to be very independent and disciplined in your work.

On-site administration of your program

At Oxford, you are in charge of making sure you stay on top of your bills, meetings with the programme director, etc. There is much less emphasis on accessibility and support than in the US. However, there is a director just for visiting students, who can help with any questions or difficulties.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

All of the American visiting students lived in the same building. Unfortunately, there were very few British students living there as well. I happened to be on a hall of nearly all Brits, so I felt less isolated from the rest of the Mansfield student body than other visiting students living in the same building. The accommodation is called Dale, and it is located 10-15 minute walk away from College. It is located in Cowley, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and pubs. However, the area is a little sketchy late at night. Cowley is about a 20 minute walk away from the clubs.

The dining hall food at Mansfield is some of the best at Oxford. At each meal, there are usually 2 meat options and 1 or 2 vegetarian options. As a vegetarian, I always felt like I had adequate options during all meals.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Mansfield College had amazing Entz Reps, who planned entertainment for the entire student body. These events included ice skating, biking to Blenheim Palace, pub crawls, club nights, bops (silly dance parties where costumes are necessary).

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Oxford is a very safe place. American students also live very close to the NHS infirmary. They have decent hours also.

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

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• Dorm

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• Local Students
• Americans

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• Local Students