Alright so I never actually knew that the Vampire Weekend's song, "Oxford Comma," was an actual thing, let alone that I would be studying abroad at the university from which it originated.
However, as I find myself posted up just a few blocks down from Oxford University, in "The Secret Garden," at the scenic Organic Deli Cafe, with it's mint green brick walls and succulents hanging in ceramic pottery, I feel as if I am just another one of the locals tuning into their Friday afternoon brunch.
Yet here I am, 3 weeks into the program, no longer noticing my American accent that seeps through in conversation with the locals as I order my morning latte.
My journey to Oxford has been a bit of an interesting one to say the least. After applying early on a whim and trust on the words of a girl I just met a week into my freshman year, I received my confirmation email informing me that in a few short months, I would find myself living in England for 6 weeks.
Now halfway through the program, despite the many self-imposed travel struggles and my families reluctancy to send me off to another country for a month and a half, it seems as if somehow, all along, this place was meant to be placed in my path.
Little did I know that immediately I would be immersed into the rich culture that holds true to the city of Oxford. From being the city of residency for J.R.R. Tolkien, to the birthplace of Emma Watson and ultimately the inspiration for the book, "Harry Potter," this not-so-small town has so many stories to tell. And as I write my own story through the streets as I imprint my legacy onto its stone brick walls, I feel the need to share these stories for those seeking a similar, life-enhancing experience.
Week 1: Wimbledon. This seriously has to be one of the coolest, once in a lifetime experiences I have had thus far. Being too broke to afford a pre-bought ticket, we chose the queue option in which you can wait in line until you finally make it into the park (I was #7719). Despite the actual second degree burn I acquired from that four-hour wait in line, it was well worth the wait, and allowed from a great bonding experience for my week-old friends.
Week 2: Bath. Alright so I had no clue that the Roman baths were located in Bath, or that maybe that's why the city was named after an odd household item (believe it or not, I do like history, just maybe not geography). Needless to say, this place was phenomenal. With the original stone, two-thousand years old artifacts, and the opportunity to taste the hot, calcium-dense, spring water, I can't help but say, this was yet another experience of a lifetime.
Week 3: Despite missing my train to Dublin and having to cancel my weekend trip (note to self: when traveling anywhere you are not familiar with the transportation system, allow yourself plenty of time to arrive in time to make your trip actually happen), this weekend has been one of exploration. After exploring several of Oxford University's free museums, punting boats, and beautiful parks, it has been a much needed weekend of decompression and relief (as anyone who has traveled for an extended period of time knows that a little time off from the hustle and bustle tends to be much needed).
And with yet another 3 weeks to make the most of before I travel my way back to sweet, sweet Athens, GA, I have to say:
To anyone looking into studying abroad in a city full of rich culture and plenty of beautiful, historic views, Oxford University is your destination.
