University of Oxford: Day 1 in Oxford

As I mentioned in a previous post, I am studying at the University of Oxford this fall! This blog is the perfect avenue to maintain my Oxford diary to share about my experiences. I spent my first full day in Oxford getting settled into my new, albeit temporary, life in Oxford. We had our first day of orientation, that included a session on Oxford’s history, as well as a short walking tour. Here’s some of what I learned and saw on day 1 in Oxford!

Nestled along the banks of the River Thames in southern England, the city of Oxford is renowned for its rich history, picturesque architecture, and, most notably, its prestigious institution of higher learning – the University of Oxford. The intertwined history of the city and the university dates back over nine centuries, making it one of the oldest and most esteemed educational institutions in the world.

While there is no clear date of when the University was founded, there is some evidence that teaching has existed in some form since 1096. Known for its monasteries and churches, men flocked to Oxford for clergy training and intellectual explorations. Oxford did not allow women to attend until 1878 and did not admit them as full members until 1920. Since 2008, all colleges have admitted men and women.

Oxford Colleges

Thankfully, on day 1 in Oxford I had the opportunity to tour Balliol College, which is one of the oldest colleges, founded in 1263. The grounds were absolutely stunning as they consisted of well-manicured lawns, colorful gardens, and stunning architecture.

There are an additional 35 colleges (36 total) and three societies. Each college is independent and self-governing. I don’t know my college affiliation yet, but I will update you soon. Each college sets out to take care of students’ minds, bodies, and spirits. The colleges care for the mind through your studies and the libraries. The body through the dining halls. And, the spirit through the chapel.

Notable Buildings at the University of Oxford

Saxon Tower of St. Michael at the North Gate

We stopped in front of the Saxon Tower of St. Michael at the North Gate, which is the oldest building in Oxford. The tower was originally part of the north gate of the city and served as a defensive structure. The tower, made of local limestone, has survived numerous battles and sieges throughout history.

The Divinity School

For all my Harry Potter fans out there, we stopped by the Divinity School. The Divinity School is where they filmed the classroom dance, and infirmary scenes. The Divinity School, built between 1427 and 1483, is the oldest surviving purpose building for university use.

Radcliffe Camera

Next, we learned about the Radcliffe Camera, or “Rad Cam”, built between 1737 and 1749. James Gibbs designed the Rad Cam in the English Palladian style. The building now houses reading rooms as part of the central Bodleian Library complex. The Radcliffe Camera is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in Oxford and is a popular tourist attraction.

Bodleian Library

Speaking of the Bodleian Library, we spent a lot of time learning about that too! The Bodleian Library is one of the oldest libraries in Europe. Sir Thomas Bodley, a diplomat and scholar, founded the library in 1602. He sought to create a repository of books that would be available for scholars and students to use. The library’s collection has since grown to over 13 million items, including books, manuscripts, maps, and other materials. The Bodleian is one of the largest and most comprehensive libraries in the world.

Day 1 in Oxford was a success. There is still so much to explore in Oxford, and I have the next three months to do it! I hope you join me in this journey and enjoy reading about my adventures. If you have ever been to Oxford, please let me know where you think I should go next in the comments!