The sun was shining brightly as St Hugh’s opened its doors to its first ORA students of 2019. The wonderful campus team were on hand throughout the afternoon to organise refreshments and help our students settle into their rooms. 

Once everyone had taken the opportunity to introduce themselves, it was time for some important welcome talks. The talks intend to remind the students of the more crucial aspects of their time here: making international friends, studying diligently, and exploring the wealth of culture that Oxford has to offer.

Afterwards it was time for some dinner where students began really getting to know each other; sharing travel stories, comparing home countries, and discussing the activities they were looking forward to the most.

Once the cohort had finished with dinner, it was time to head outside for some ice breaker games. Despite many students having travelled a very long way, nobody was short of energy. Several of them banded together to set up some frisbee games – one in a classical circle and another breaking off to set up their own american football style game. It was the perfect way for the students to get to know each other and begin building strong friendships. 

By the time the evening was over, everyone was thoroughly exhausted, but smiling. The students went to bed looking forward to the chance to begin their studies tomorrow in the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’.