The Summer in Oxford program was a fantastic experience. I keep mentioning to my friends here how it feels like a simulation instead of reality. I have grown so much as a person, met great people and experienced amazing things. I was able to slow down, which I normally struggle to do, and appreciate the special moments we have had here. This is definitely the most difficult thing I have ever done, but it was so worth it.
The Sights, Sweets and Sounds of Oxford – A How To
I have visited incredible historical sites and eaten great food since coming here. It was difficult to pick just a few to talk about in this post, as we have been to many amazing sites such as Stonehenge, Blenheim Palace and the Globe Theatre. Both the sites and food have left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful to have such fond memories to look back on.
The Breathtaking Christ Church – How to Not Get Lost
One of the most interesting sites I visited during my time in Oxford is Christ Church. It was already beautiful from the gardens on the outside so I was thrilled to be able to further explore the grounds and go inside the church. The cathedral was breathtaking and gave me peace and serenity. One of my favorite parts was admiring the beautiful stained glass. I cannot believe people long ago constructed something so exquisite. I am also a huge Harry Potter fan so it was a dream come true to see the inspiration for the Great Hall as well as where they filmed some of the famous staircase scenes. It always fascinates and excites me when I am able to see something in person I have read about or watched. I truly think Christ Church is a must-see site when visiting Oxford. I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I really was able to slow down and appreciate the moments spent here.
As for how to not get lost, I suggest getting a headset guided tour and following the signs. The signage is relatively clear, but the guided tour helps in telling visitors exactly where to go next as the path can be a bit confusing. It was easily understandable with so much history piled in. There are also guides around, so do not be afraid to ask questions!
How to Navigate a New Dessert Culture: Ben’s Cookies and iScream Gelateria
I have had a sweet tooth for as long as I can remember. One of the best decisions I could have made during my time in Oxford was going to Ben’s Cookies and iScream Gelateria. Both are located in the charming Covered Market in City Centre. Each time I went to Ben’s, I got the white chocolate chunk. It is easily one of the best cookies I have ever had: warm, gooey, right out of the oven. Eating Ben’s Cookies brought me such happiness and tranquility, as cookies are my favorite dessert. I have not stopped talking about it since I had it, suggesting it to everyone else on the trip, asking “have you had Ben’s Cookies yet?!?!?”
One day, I had the genius idea to then pair the yummy cookie with vanilla gelato from iScream. That gelato was also easily some of the best I have ever had, and I have had a lot of ice cream in my lifetime (and it being a great price was an added bonus). Putting little bits of the cookie into my gelato was a very tasty experience, as the vanilla and white chocolate paired well together. I am really going to miss both Ben’s Cookies and iScream Gelateria after leaving Oxford.
For navigating Oxford’s food culture in general, I would first go where you are most comfortable and know that you will enjoy that food. I would then branch out from there after you know you have places to fall back on. I would also strongly suggest pairing Ben’s Cookies with iScream. Both cannot be skipped while visiting Oxford!
How to Experience Religion Differently: Evensong
A happening I was thrilled to attend was Evensong at New College Chapel. The chapel was beautiful and unlike anything I had ever seen before. A small group of us went with Dr. Sacco after he had been excitedly telling us about it since our pre-trip orientation. Evensong is an event that includes choral music, readings and prayers. It is a unique moment for meditation and reflection at the part of the day after work but before time with family. It has been going on for 500 years, so I was very grateful to be able to witness it. There was a grand choir made up of mostly young adults who sang beautifully. Evensong is a great opportunity to be able to take a moment and reflect on everything that has been going on in our lives.
One of the best parts of Evensong is that it is non-denominational, so all are welcome. I had friends come with me who were not followers of Christianity but enjoyed the ceremony as much as I did. You do not have to know the songs or prayers in order to get the most out of the event; you control what you get out of the ceremony. I also do not think there is something like this in the United States which makes it even more special. I suggest taking it all in and letting your mind soak in the sense of tranquility Evensong provides.
Final Thoughts
I am so grateful to have been able to come on this trip. I am proud of myself for constantly pushing through the challenges that arose during the trip. I expanded my horizons and the memories made will stay with me forever. Although I am sad for the trip to be over, I look forward to going home and telling my family and friends about all of my adventures. I also look forward to studying abroad a full semester in Spring 2026!
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