Summer is now over for our students in Oxford, and it is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to our brilliant final cohort of students from Merton. It goes without saying that this group have shown total commitment to their work, immersing themselves in their classes, and showing both their teachers and one another a huge amount of respect in this challenging and international learning environment.
Classes have been a highly important aspect of the experience here in Oxford for the students on our 19 + programmes. It has been great to hear that our cohort has learnt a huge amount during their stay, as they return home with a wealth of both practical and theoretical knowledge. Those on International Medical Research and Practice have enjoyed workshops which have detailed human anatomy, whilst those on Psychological and Behavioural Science have developed their knowledge of the human brain and how this can affect the way we think and feel.
Elsewhere, students on Public Speaking for the Modern World and Workplace have built their confidence in speech making, particularly focusing on overcoming anxiety about standing out in the crowd. Our Global Business, Management and Finance students have gained insights into wealth management practices as well as learning the best ways to be the most innovative entrepreneurs of tomorrow. Finally, International Law in the 21st Century has seen our diverse cohort discussing the complicated implications of Human Rights law whilst those on Politics and International Relations have been exploring how to tackle the contemporary issues faced by leaders today.
Not only have these students developed considerably in their classes, but they have also excelled at making friends. The group bonded over drinks at the famous watering hole, the Turf Tavern, as well as visiting the huge array of cultural sights in the city of Oxford. In particular, students have been seen travelling together to the Bodleian to study before heading into town in the evening to share a meal together. A scavenger hunt of the city helped friendships to blossom whilst also encouraging the students to explore the hidden corners of Oxford. To stimulate their academic curiosities, students also benefitted from the expertise of our guest speakers Professor Nicola Clayton and Clive Wilkins. These talks were designed to complement their programmes as well as to inspire all of our students to explore the boundaries of their imaginations.
We would also like to congratulate all of our staff at Merton, from our counsellors, junior deans and campus co-ordinators to our programme directors and teachers, they have shown so much enthusiasm and encouragement to those studying here. Without their fantastic and dedicated input, the experience of this cohort would not have been the same.
Graduation day came rather too soon as no one was ready to leave! However, the ceremony was a brilliant celebration of the achievements of these students. As everyone accepted their scrolls and special awards, the pride was clear on the faces of our staff. A party was an appropriate end to proceedings as the group got to enjoy a meal and drinks at the college bar. Well done to all of you for your hard work!
A huge amount of gratitude goes out to all of our students and staff who have made the weeks absolutely fly by. We wish everyone the very best of luck with their academic endeavours and all the best for the future. We are hoping to see some of these friendly faces again in Summer 2020!