With Friday came Graduation day and for our students at Merton this meant a special celebration dedicated to all of their hard work over the past two weeks. As these students have shown particular commitment to their studies, it seemed like an even more special occasion to reward the efforts of this cohort.

Lessons were a more relaxed affair than usual for everyone. Having now handed in their final assignments and performed their final presentations, students shared in interesting discussion with their teachers, asking them more broad questions about their area of expertise. With a group tutorial in the afternoon, everyone was able to share their final thoughts on the programme, reflecting on what they had learnt and looking back through all of the material produced.

Following the end of lessons, students thanked their teachers for the passion and inspiration they have shared over the last two weeks. Then it was time for everyone to head off to start packing their belongings and getting into their best outfits for the ceremony.

The event was held in the TS Eliot theatre, and it was brilliant to see everyone applauding their peers as they headed up to receive their scrolls and special awards. The proceedings were closed by our programme director before the group headed for their meal before a drink at the student bar to reminisce on their time in Oxford.

As this is the final session in Oxford, it was slightly sad for students and staff alike to say goodbye to college. However, everyone was eager to stay in contact and we hope that the friendships that have formed here over the past two weeks will endure for a lifetime!