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One Week Down

I left the United States a week ago, and yet I already feel at home in Oxford. I’ve been attending various “Freshers’ Week” information sessions (and I thought Holy Cross’ orientation threw far too much information at me!), setting up my room, meeting other JYA’s (Junior Year Abroad), and exploring this magnificent city. What I truly love about this program is that I’m really living by myself in a foreign city. Yes, my primary focus here is studying, but I also have to make my own meals (there’s no handy-dandy Kimball here), factor errands into my day (okay, so this isn’t that big of a deal. My errands right now include going to the Post Office and the like), and find some time to make friends as well. Even though I’ve only been here for a week, the experience has been truly amazing. If anything, my cooking skills will improve ten-fold!

With regards to academics, classes haven’t begun yet. I have a meeting with my Age of Bede tutor on Friday, and I have my first History of the English language class next Tuesday. I already have an essay due for that class, actually. My tutor e-mailed me and said to e-mail my paper to her and also bring a hard copy to class. That was it. There were no prompts. Welcome to Oxford! I’m so excited for the tutorial program. I’ve heard nothing but fantastic things from all the other students who have completed the program. The entire situation is going to be very different from my Holy Cross education. While Holy Cross classes meet for a certain number of hours a week, I will only meet with my primary tutorial (History of the English Language) once a week, and I’ll only have my secondary tutorial once every other week. That means that I only have 8 sessions for my primary tutorial and 4 session for my secondary tutorial. Hm. This is going to be extremely interesting!

Now for something completely different: This past Sunday, I attended Mass at the Oxford Oratory. This is the same church in which Cardinal Newman preached and J.R.R. Tolkien attended. Yes, I do realize that the former is more theologically important than the latter. But being in the same pew at Tolkien is kind of cool, you have to admit. Anyway, this Mass happened to be the Solemn Mass. Everything except the Liturgy of the Word was in Latin. Everything. As obsessed as I am with Latin, I thought it was cool. The homily didn’t hold a candle to the Jesuits’ at Holy Cross, though (3,000 miles away and an ocean in between me won’t stop my love for Holy Cross!). Regardless, the Mass was gorgeous. This Church is also hosting the relics of St. Therese of Liseux starting tomorrow, and Pope Benedict is going to be visiting this Church sometime in the Spring. No, I had no idea that any of these events were going to happen while I was here. I’m actually thinking about writing my ICIP (International Culutral Immersion Project. Every HoCro student who studies abroad has to complete a project that required them to immerse themselves in their host country.) about Catholicism in England  and how it becomes different when you’re not in the majority, as we are at Holy Cross. It’s still in the working stages in my mind, but I promise that it makes sense.

Well, I’m going to sign off for now. When I get my card reader running, expect to see this page full of pictures!
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Please Mind the Gap

Well, I have officially arrived! Let my Junior Year Abroad begin!

Tuesday was one of the most hectic days of my life. Well, that’s not entirely true. Freshman year move-in day takes the cake for that one. However, Tuesday was somewhat stressful. I had to pack everything that I need for a year into two suitcases. It was difficult, to say the least. But, after unpacking everything, I am proud to say that I only forgot my card reader and my mini booklight, both of which can be easily replaced or shipped. But let’s not get ahead; there’s an entire saga to relay.

I left Atlanta on Tuesday night. When I separated from my parents at security, yes, I was a little sad because I’ll be away from them until Christmas, and then once again for six to eight months. But that’s not the point of this entry. Even though I was somewhat sad, I was more ecstatic (sorry, Mom and Dad) because I knew what was ahead of me. The plane ride went very smoothly. I met a couple of American students who are also studying in England; one of the guys that I met actually goes to Williams and he’s studying at Exeter College for the year. I went through Customs without a glitch. But here was where the fun began. Remember how I had packed two suitcases? In addition to those checked bags, I still had my backpack and a rolling carry-on. Both of my checked bags were rather heavy (one was 50 lbs, and the other was 57 lbs), and I still had more weight to carry because of my carry-ons. Here’s some advice to any students traveling to England next year – the luggage carts (or trolleys, as the Brits call them) are free to use in Heathrow; it isn’t like American airports, and I wish that I would’ve known that. Anyway, I was meeting Carrie and Terminal 5, so I dragged my luggage to the train. Last year, I just took a train to Terminal 5 and hopped on the Oxford bus. Well, there is no train to Terminal 5 anymore. Then 5 different people told me how to get to Terminal 5 in five different ways. Finally, I found the bus to Terminal 5, hopped on it and dragged all of my luggage behind me. I found Carrie, and we were off to Oxford. You know, typing this traveling experience out does not do it justice. I think I’ll have to request the security video from Heathrow to show you all what an ordeal it was!

Anyway, we arrived in Oxford, grabbed our keys to our residences, and moved in. The first night, I just unpacked and I was unconscious by 10:30 p.m. Since then, I’ve been unpacking bit by bit, and I’ve set up my room quite nicely. I even bought a rubber ducky hamper (I believe that this is the highlight of my year abroad, so far!). I’m living in a single, and it’s about half the size of a typical dorm at Holy Cross. I have the typical desk, wardrobe, bed, computer chair, and easy chair. The room also has a sink and cabinet, and it’s wonderful to be able to brush my teeth in my room. The kitchen and bathroom area are shared between the seven other people who live on my hall. All in all, it’s a great living situation.

As for Oxford, it feels like I never left. Everything has been fantastic so far. The only part that I’m still rather nervous (well, that’s not the right word) about is getting my own food. I’m so used to Kimball that this is going to be quite the switch for me. It’ll all work out; don’t worry! But the actual city of Oxford is fantastic. The people here have been so helpful, and I feel perfectly situated. I won’t say acclimated just yet because I haven’t started classes. My first class is on October 9th, and then my next one is October 13th. Yes, I already have essays assigned. I’m just so excited for this year to really begin! Until then, though, I have to attend various Orientation (or, as they call it, Induction) meetings, but life will soon begin here in Oxford. How exciting!
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2 Days and Counting…

Last night, I couldn’t fall asleep. In order to cure my insomnia, I began thinking of what I need to pack for my year abroad (trust me, it helps). I then started thinking, “Well, I’m sleeping in my own bed for tonight, Sunday night, Monday night…and…oh, wait. That’s it.” Yes, it has finally dawned upon me that I’m leaving the country in TWO DAYS. I’m beginning to think that I’m crazy for doing this in the first place. Packing up at the end of last semester was difficult enough. Condensing everything that I need until the end of June (well, it might be August, but that’s for another post) into two suitcases, a backpack, and a laptop bag is extremely difficult. And I’m not just talking about clothes. My list of books to pack is way too high at the moment.

Tomorrow is, by far, going to be one of the busiest days of my life. I’m getting my braces off (YAY!), running to the bank, packing, doing about a million things on the computer, running here and there, and trying not to forget stuff. I really cannot believe that I’m leaving in two days. It seems so unreal!
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September 21, 2009

This past weekend was amazing. I was so happy that I was able to see my friends and professors one more time before I head across the pond. Here’s a recap of each day:

Friday: I had several meetings with various professors. I honestly think that I was busier this weekend than any other weekend I have ever been on the hill. I met with Prof. Matlak who directs CISS. As I’m sure that you’ve all figured out by now, I’m really interested in Medieval Studies (how many boring posts have I included shout-outs to St. Augustine and the Beowulf poet?), and I’ve contemplated declaring a minor in Medieval Studies. Unfortunately, Holy Cross doesn’t have a template for said minor. Actually, I’m really happy about that. This way, I can coordinate my own minor to the exact specifications of what I want to study. Anyway, I met with Prof. Matlak, and he advised me to make a double major out of it instead. Low and behold, I was doing some calculations (WHAT?!? Math somehow entered into my life?), and it turns out that I can still graduate on time with a double major in English and Medieval Studies. So, I spent some time in the library and began working on my proposal. At least it will give me something to do before I go abroad! Here’s how a CISS major proposal works: I’m required to select ten classes (14 if it’s a single major) from at least three different disciplines. This is why I’m really excited that there is no set template. I want to focus more on the philosophy, theology, and literature of the Middle Ages than anything else, so my ten courses will revolve around that. I’m also required to defend my class selections, and I also must persuade the CISS board why a Medieval Studies major would contribute to the academic life of Holy Cross. I also have to get two professors to agree to be my advisors. That’s the tricky part. But, it’s really not too much work, and I’ll be able to graduate with a degree in both of my academic loves. I’m so excited! Let’s just hope that my proposal is accepted by the CISS board.
After all of my meetings with professors, Melissa (my fellow blogger) and I decided to go out to dinner. We were going to eat at Uno’s at Blackstone Valley Shops; however, the bus for Providence arrived at the same time, and Melissa and I decided to jump on it. We spent far too much time at Cheesecake Factory and we also ate too much food. However, it was worth it!

Saturday: Well, the Crusaders broke my curse. Our football team won a game at which I was present! Well, I wasn’t exactly present for the entire game, but I was still on campus. I’m so excited that the curse is finally broken. Anyway, I met up with a lot of my friends on campus, and I also saw my good friend Kelsey, who studied at Oxford last year. She gave me some insider tips on how to survive a full year and such. After hearing some of her experiences, I have high expectations for my year abroad!
Also, Ashley family had an emergency on Saturday night. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Sunday: Sunday was my last day on the Holy Cross campus until August 24, 2010. On that day, I will enter into my senior year (hopefully in a senior apartment, but we’ll see). It’s a weird feeling. I’m still a student at Holy Cross, but I’m not at the same time. I mean, an entire year will pass in which everyone at Holy Cross will have grown and learned new information, both in their classes and about themselves; I’ll come back with a full year of amazing experiences, both academic and personal, and yet it’s still the same year. When I was at the 11:30 Mass and I didn’t participate, it kind of hit me. Oh goodness – is this how I’m going to feel right after I graduate? I hope not!

Anyway, I’m now back at home in Georgia. There are monsoons here (literally. My backyard is a lake), and I’m spending my time working on this major proposal and several other documents. My suitcases are sitting on my sister’s bed, and they’re just waiting to be filled. I have eight days left before I begin the adventure of my life. Now that I’ve visited Holy Cross and everyone there, I don’t think I could be more ready.

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September 18, 2009

I’m am currently (and happily!) writing this update from a computer in Dinand Library. I cannot contain my excitement. I’m in the most lovely building on this campus (well, second to the chapel, maybe).

I arrived yesterday afternoon, and since then, I’ve been attacked by hugs and hellos. I spent yesterday seeing as many of my friends as I could. Today, I’ve been running around (and it’s only 11:00!) to see professors. Some have been just to catch up, and others have been for signatures, advice, and the like. Even though I’m only on campus for three days, I don’t think I’ve ever felt this busy. Nevertheless, it’s fantastic to be back. It’s kind of weird right now because all of my friends are in class, and I’m just hanging out. Of course, I am in Dinand, so I’m sure that I could probably find a book to read to keep me occupied for the next couple of hours or so.

Check back soon for photos from this weekend!
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September 16th, 2009

Well, here’s the bad news: I had to get braces on my bottom teeth…again. Long story short: I couldn’t wear my retainer for three months after my surgery, and the only way to straighten my teeth again is to be in braces for a bit.

Here’s the good news: A) The braces will only be on for two weeks, which means that I’ll have them off in time for Oxford.
B) I’m leaving for Oxford in two weeks!!
C) I’ll be at Holy Cross in less than 24 hours!
D) I’m leaving for Oxford in two weeks!!

Can you tell that I’m excited for my year abroad?

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September 10, 2009

I have to admit that it’s pretty strange to know that everything continues at Holy Cross while I’m still on summer mode. Every day, I receive copious e-mails from Holy Cross that alert me about specific events happening at Holy Cross. For instance, today, I received an e-mail highlighting a lecture about the rededication of the Pantheon in 609 as a Catholic church. When I read it, I forgot that I’m about two thousand miles away and immediately looked for the location and the time of the lecture. For all of you at Holy Cross who might be reading this – please go to that lecture and take notes for me! It sounds fantastic.

I’m not doing all that much anymore. The pub at which I worked for the past two summers suddenly closed down, so now I’m out of a job. No matter – I’ve been keeping myself occupied with books for my upcoming tutorials. Some things never change, do they?

Check back for more updates! I’m visiting Holy Cross a week from today, so check back to see all of my pictures!
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September 1, 2009

Hello everyone and welcome back! This summer flew by way too quickly. Since my last update, I visited Tybee Island (which is off the coast of Savannah) for the Fourth of July, went to Cape Cod for a family reunion, worked practically every night at the restaurant, visited Cape Cod for a week with just my nuclear family, stayed with my grandmother in New Bedford, and then spent some time with my sister, Caitie, at Colgate. I can’t believe that it’s already September. I guess the main reason for my disbelief is that I’m typing this at home rather than at my desk at school. While all of my friends are back at Holy Cross and preparing for another semester, I’m biding my time until September 29th. On that day, I’ll step onto a plane headed for London with only two suitcases (Delta’s new policy does not factor in students who are studying abroad for the year!) and I’ll begin my studies at Oxford. I am so excited. I’m not sure if that really even needed to be said. A group of my friends who are abroad all throughout Europe have already started a Facebook message indicating where we are and for how long in case if anyone wants to visit. As of right now, my friends are in Germany, Spain, France, Ireland, Italy, and Scotland. That’s not including my friends who are outside of Europe, but there’s no possible way that I could visit Tina who is studying art in Melbourne, Australia.

So, how will I be spending my time until September 29th? Well, I’ve already received e-mails from my two tutors at Oxford about supplementary information that I should read before classes begin. Right now, I’m in the middle of Bede’s Ecclesiastical History of the English People. Now this sounds like my kind of summer! Note to any future English majors who might concentrate in Medieval Literature – People will look at you as if you have three heads when you tell them what you’re reading. Trust me. My extended family thinks I’m insane.

Continue to check back for updates as I begin my preparations to jump across the pond! Until then, though, you can enjoy some photos from my summer travels.

Bumper BoatsBumper BoatsOrleans - Nauset BeachLobster!
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June 27th, 2009

Tonight, I wasn’t sure if I was in Boston or in Atlanta. My family and I went to the Red Sox game in Atlanta tonight, and I’m quite positive that there were more Red Sox fans there than Atlanta Braves fans. When Youkilis got up to bat, the crowd was deafening with cheers of “Yoooooooouk.” Instead of cheering “Let’s go Braves,” the crowd changed it into “Let’s Go Red Sox.” It was hilarious. It was basically an away game for the Braves, but in their own stadium. Of course, Turner is not the same as Fenway, but it was still great to see the Red Sox play. It was just a rather boring game. The final score was 1-0. There were only five or six hits by either team (and Big Papi did make a double). It was more of a pitchers’ duel than anything. Oh well – it was still hilarious to see a taste of Boston in Atlanta. Now I just wish that we could have some of Boston’s weather. The high hovers in the 90’s on a daily basis; the day of the game was 96. I just keep going from extremes – Worcester in the winter, and Georgia in the summer. You would think that I’d learn how to balance it in my favor!
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June 23rd, 2009

You know what’s one thing that I geniunely miss about Holy Cross? I really miss the Jesuits’ sermons on Sundays. I know it sounds weird, but their sermons are really just brilliant. For instance, Fr. McFarland’s on Easter Sunday was about death – not exactly what all of us were expecting. But it was just so intellectual and so moving. And, I’m not saying anything against my dioceasean priests, but their homilies just aren’t the same!

Yesterday, I started my Ancient Greek class. Exciting, right? I spent two hours with my tutor, and he spent an hour trying to get me to speak from my gut. My tutor actually had a really interesting philosophy about ancient languages versus modern language. He said that a majority of modern languages simply use language as a tool. Ancient languages, however, involve the whole body because they’re trying to express everything that the speaker is attempting to convey. For instance, when we speak English, we form our words with our lips. When you speak Ancient Greek, the sound has to start in your stomach, and it works it way up through the throat. Then the tounge has to manipulate the sound. It was a really interesting concept. But that’s enough philology for today. Just wait until Oxford – then you’ll be reading about philology every day!

Until next time!