Summer School at Real-Life Hogwarts: How Living in Oxford Changed My Life

“Summer is more summery [in Oxford] than anywhere else I know; not hotter, certainly not sunnier, but more like summers used to be, in everyone’s childhood memories.” – Jan Morris

Radcliffe Camera

At seventeen, I embarked on my very first solo adventure: a three-week summer language course in Oxford with Education First. After two COVID-19-related postponements of my trip, I finally made it! And looking back, I can say with certainty that this trip changed me as a person and my life forever. It wasn't just about improving my English; it was about growing up, stepping out of my comfort zone, and falling in love with one of the most enchanting cities in the world. I have gained new and exciting life experiences that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Why Oxford?

When I started planning my trip back in 2019, I had a few other destinations in mind. But something about Oxford - the timeless charm, stunning architecture, the dark academia, and let's be honest, the Harry Potter vibes - quickly won me over. It was the best decision I could have ever made. In my opinion, Oxford is more than just a city; it's an experience. An just like Jan Morris said, my Oxford summer indeed felt more like the picture perfect summers of my childhood.

Shortly before my departure from Germany to the UK, I was quite nervous, even though I'd prepared meticulously with a packing list and personal Oxford bucket list with all the sights I wanted to see, and experiences I planned on doing. On that list? Shopping at Blackwell's Bookshop, visiting Magdalen and New College, grabbing cookies from the famous Ben's Cookies in the Covered Market and so much more. The nerves eventually gave way to pure excitement and joy. I couldn't wait to finally visit the City of Dreaming Spires!

First Impressions

After landing at Heathrow Airport, the transfer from EF took me straight to my host family in Oxford. From there, my flatmate from Spain and I headed straight into the city centre. I won’t forget how special this day was: that evening stroll during golden hour and seeing the Radcliffe Camera for the first time in my life felt almost surreal. Oxford looked like it came straight out of my dreams, except that it was real.

The next day kicked off with a special welcome talk at the historic Sheldonian Theatre, where I joined hundreds of other new EF students from all over the world - Spain, Italy, France, Argentina, Chile and beyond. In the afternoon, we went on a walking tour around Oxford's most iconic sights, and friendships began to form over awkward introductions and our shared awe of the city. Although students living on campus found it easier to bond quickly, I was positively surprised by how extremely friendly and welcoming the whole EF staff, all the teachers and even the locals in Oxford were. From the very beginning I felt safe and at home.

Life in the City of Dreaming Spires

Between classes at summer school, I made it my mission to complete that Oxford bucket list. I explored some of the most iconic colleges - All Souls, Magdalen, Queens, Oriel, and of course, New College (yes, this is the one where Draco Malfoy is transformed into a ferret in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire). Naturally, I didn’t miss out on a punting trip on the River Cherwell, which turned out to be quite a fun experience. It definitely looks far easier than it actually is, but laughter and a few near falls into the water made it all the more memorable.

Tuesdays were for EF theme parties at the Bullingdon nightclub - Midsummer Party, Prom Night, Glitterball - each one more fun than the last. I also tried dinner spots like George Street Social and watched Thor: Love and Thunder at the Odeon Cinema George Street.

Weekends brought adventures beyond Oxford. I joined day trips to Stonehenge & Bath, Cambridge, and Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The latter is still one of my favourite palaces I have ever visited. I even organised a trip to London with a few of my friends using the Oxford Tube, which was pretty convenient as this bus runs 24/7 and was only around 16 pounds for a return ticket (as of July 2022).

Stonehenge

Blenheim Palace

What I Learned

At the beginning, it was hard to approach strangers, but I absolutely loved getting to know people from all over the world. The international friendship I made with one girl from Switzerland specifically has become some of the most meaningful connections in my life. As a result, I became much more independent, self-confident and open-minded. Living with a host family played a big role in that because it pushed me to adapt and engage in real-live conversations on an every-day basis. I particularly enjoyed the intercultural exchange during the interesting conversations I had with my host-siblings.

If there's one thing I've taken from this trip, it's this: solo travel is empowering! Yes, it can be a little scary at the beginning. But it also forces you to speak the local language, meet new people and discover how capable you truly are on your own. I have experienced things that I could only experience in Oxford and that will enrich my life in every way possible. It wasn't just a language trip - it has changed my life completely!

Final Thoughts

If you're thinking about a language trip - or simply a solo adventure - DO IT! Oxford is a city where history, academia, and magic meet in one place. And if you’re lucky, like I was, it just might change your life too.

You're ready to improve your English abroad and want to experience the same things I did? I did my language trip with EF. Find out more and order your brochure with detailed information about all the trips by clicking the following link: https://infl.tv/kWO5.