Oxford: So Much Freedom Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

It's much more independent at Oxford, and there is no external factor (exams, grades, etc.) forcing you to do your work. If you need this, Oxford may not be for you, because lectures are also quite big and skipping is very, very easy. It can be hard to work really hard without any feedback, but if you are internally motivated enough to appreciate this system, you will love the freedom.

On-site administration of your program

Administration was good, but right before we arrived, there was a change in people so there was slight confusion during the overlap period. It took a while to get my CAS number, and that was a bit worrisome, but it worked out in the end. Hartmut (Tutor for Visiting Students) is absolutely wonderful, though.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

Lived in an annex about five minutes from Peter's. Sheets and cookware were mostly provided, though some students did buy things like a casserole dish, mugs, personal kettles, personal sheets, extra pillows, and mattress pads. My site was right in city centre, so it was quite safe and perfectly located for shopping purposes (Tesco and High Street are about ten minutes away if you walk slowly) and going out at night (and returning home with a short walk). My room was not the biggest in the dorm, but I thought it was more than sufficient, especially compared to Wellesley singles. I had my own bathroom, which was so excellent, and I liked my scouts who came and cleaned my room/bathroom. My dorm had less American Visiting Students and more local students, which I really enjoyed because it gave me more opportunity to mingle with the locals.

Like I said, I was not the healthiest, but there was ample opportunity for healthy cooking with many grocery stores located nearby. Peter's dining hall was also decent - taste and price wise - I just knew I could save a bit more money making my own food. I would recommend dining in the dining hall because it gives you more time to interact with other students, but it's up to you, really. Definitely go for formal halls though!!

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Oxford life provides you with an excellent balance between work and play. You work all day, and just hang out at night, which is so wonderful. There aren't many Peter's-arranged field trips, but there was a Ball this year that was lovely even though it rained.

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Didn't need NHS, but seemed to be alright for friends. I mostly felt safe walking around alone at night, but I was always alert.

(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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• Americans
• International Students
• Local Students

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• Local Students