Student Evaluations of the International Relations Course

The course in International Relations (held in January and the Summer) is always highly praised by the students, some of whom were from San Diego State University but many of whom came from other universities around the US.

Not only are the lecturers leading scholars in their fields (they have published over 60 books collectively) almost all have also had practical experience in their governments which makes their lectures more realistic and relevant.

Sir John Johnson was a British Ambassador who returned to Oxford to direct the graduate program in Foreign Service. Dr Tudor Jones has advised many British political leaders. Dean G.H.L. Le May helped Prime Minister Churchill write his speeches in World War II. Mark Almond has advised the EU and the UN and is a frequent commentator on Eastern Europe and Russia in the media.

Sir David Yardley was a judge and head of a government commission as well as an Oxford Law Fellow. Dr George Bergstrom (D.Phil., Oxon) served in US Air Force Intelligence.

The Academic Course Director is Dr Michael Stoddard of the San Diego State University Political Science Department and a Visiting Fellow in Greyfriars Hall, Oxford University. He was recently elected "Best Professor of the Year" by the student body; he has received numerous other teaching awards. He has served several Presidents since 1970.

The Director of the Oxford Study Abroad Program is Professor Robert Schuettinger, an Associate Fellow of a Yale College since 1973 and a former Visiting Fellow of an Oxford college. He has served in the White House and the State Department and was Director of Long Range Policy Planning at the Pentagon. He also was elected "Best Professor of the Year". Both of these scholars have published many books and articles.

We list below many representative comments written by students in the Spring 2006 course in their Student Journals and in their Evaluations of the course.

We urge you to carefully read the last comment from a student who tried to understand exactly why so many students say that they learned more in six weeks in Oxford than they did in two or three years at home.

So far this trip has been amazing. Truly an experience I will never forget. As far as academics go, I have learned more here than I have in my two years at my US college. I was told people say that, and I believe it because I am one of those people.

Before this, I had no idea what went on in the rest of the world. I now have a much better understanding of the politics, history and driving forces behind a lot of countries whose geography I didn't even know. I've seen museums and architecture older than the history of my country. I've seen beautiful country scenes and experienced cultures far different from what I'm used to. I truly love my life right now, I wish I could take this home in a bottle and share it with everyone I know - MH

My tutorial was wonderful and very beneficial - RS

I loved our house - RS

My tutorial was great! - SW

I am going to miss Prof. Schuettinger's lectures. I understand his method of thinking and connect with him more than any other professor I've ever had. I like how he tells it straight and is so entertainingÉ he'll probably be fired soon. - HS

The awards at the dinner were so emotional and touching. It really puts things into perspective to see how much these scholars involved with OSAP do for the students. Prof. Schuettinger's award was especially significant to me. I have such a tremendous respect and admiration for him and his accomplishments, and his lectures have literally changed the way I live my life - HS

I always walk home and think about things he says about his own life and ways that he achieved success and try to model myself after him. After all these years he is still so passionate about education and always gives 110% - HS

My time here at Oxford has been seriously life changing. The academic knowledge I have gained is insurmountable and I learned more in six weeks here than I did in all my three years at my US College - HS

Above that, the social lessons and experiences I have had here with people in the OSAP program and people who live here in Oxford and the UK and Europe have been so enlightening. I hope to come back to Europe quite frequently and visit all my new friends. I am so happy that I have decided to study abroad and I can't wait to go home and share all of my experiences with family and friends. I am going to miss Oxford so much - HS

It was amazing. This trip has changed my life - RN

The program was great - JD

The academic program was great - GM

When everyone told me that this trip would teach me more than I have learned in my three years at my US college I just thought they were saying that to everyone but it is honestly true! - JP

I learned so much from all the different lecturers and great speakers but I also learned so much about different cultures and myself. I would not trade this experience for anything and it will be the best memory that I take with me for life. Once I finish my trip and return home, I will always remember how this summer in Oxford changed me in more ways than I will ever know - JP

The speech he gave was awesome. It was very moving and motivational. Dr Stoddard puts so much faith into his students and makes them feel like they can do anything and as long as they try hard enough they will succeed. Throughout my college career and even high school, I've had a lot of teachers that don't instil that into their students. A lot make you feel like if you can't do it now you never will, and Dr Stoddard definitely makes you feel like you can do anything - LN

I really like how they have these formal dinners in these gorgeous dining halls. It is very different than anything that my home college has - LN

Dr Stoddard is one of the best teachers I've had in my whole college career - LN,

I couldn't believe that someone that used to work with Churchill in 1944-45 was actually giving us a lecture. Dean Le May was a really good speaker - LN

The second that Dean Le May was announced as being a speech writer for Churchill, the class immediately perked up, paid attention and began taking copious notes. This was one of the best lectures I had on this trip because of what he said before beginning his lecture, he said "Take with great scepticism everything I say here today in this lecture" WOW! What a humble, yet confident and intelligent man. That sparked my interest in his lecture even more. His lecture was no doubt amazing and very informative and factual - JP

My tutorial was fantastic - GM

As much as this has been an assignment, this is also a personal journal for me to reflect on. I am glad I had this opportunity - JP

My housing was not bad - GM

The OSAP staff are great - GM

Amazing teachers who actually enjoy and love to teach you anything - SB

Every time I meet with my tutor, Mark Almond, I am shocked by just how much he knows about terrorism and history in general. He is always able to provide a unique perspective to anything we are discussing. Frequently, there are several key points that I would have never thought of on my own - MT

It was really interesting to hear Dean Le May speak, the fact that he was a speechwriter for Churchill during the war gave me the feeling that we were having a real brush with people who had a hand in making history - MT

The tours and events have been awesome - SB

Overall the academic program was great. My tutorial on terrorism (with Mark Almond) was amazing - AG

Dr Stoddard's passion for teaching is unsurpassed by any of my former teachers which makes what he says stick in your mind and provoke thought - SP

I really liked Dr Bergstrom's care for the students and his ability to relate to his students - SP

The formal dinner at New College was extraordinary, from the beginning to the end, it was all fabulous. The courtyard was beautiful, and we took a great group picture. I liked the champagne as I am sure everyone did. The meal was excellent, and the food was awesome. Everything about dining in New College was a great experience. The speeches were great, highlighting all the great work that our instructors had done for us; it was overall a special occasion. After dinner we all went to the New College bar - GM

All I can say is that this is truly one amazing experience - GM

The teachers we were learning from are world class - SH

Our house was great - AG

Later we went to the formal dinner at New College which was very pleasant and I could give my thanks to everyone. It was a very nice dinner and I was glad I got to sit across from Sir David Yardley and speak to him. I want to go into the law field so just speaking with such a prominent person in his field was very inspiring to me. Later we went to the New College bar below ground. It was cool because it seemed like a castle and I could picture other students drinking there five-hundred years ago at the same time - SH

I really like Dr Stoddard's lecturing style. I do not think that I have had a teacher that lectures with half of the passion that he does. I think that this is a very important lecture trait to have. Back in my US college most of my teachers appear to be just going through the motions. Why then should I take an interest in the topic if my professor, the so called expert in the field, does not appear to enjoy it? Sometimes I may not agree with some of the points that Dr Stoddard makes, but his passion for the topic makes me think more critically about what he is saying - CK

It's a once in a lifetime opportunity - AG

The river boat cruise was the best - AM

We then walked to New College for the formal dinner. We took some fun pictures with our robes and had some champagne (which always makes you feel grown-up and sophisticated). A few students got up to thank some of our professors and Prof. Schuettinger and Doc, especially. I was really touched by David's speech for Doc explaining his thanks for all his work to get us here and the way he inspires his students. It was an excellent speech and I think he spoke for us all.

Then, Donald gave a really great speech as well commending Prof. Schuettinger for his incredible accomplishments thus far in his life and his (and our) appreciation for all he does and all he has taught us through his program. Again, it felt good to let them know that we were thankful and grateful for this experience and for being able to learn so much from them. Knowledge is the best gift you can give someone, I think - MO

It was very enlightening. Really educational in more than a strictly academic way - HS

Prof. Schuettinger is amazing - HS

This has been an incredible experience that I will remember for my whole life. I have learned so much and I am sure I will be learning from this course upon my return to the states - MO

It had never occurred to me to think of the birth of the United States of America as happening in 1759 during the French/Indian War. Prof. Schuettinger once again brings in the "killer facts" that no one ever hears about in school, but seem to make much more logical sense than the stories and the facts that we actually do hear in school. It was quite an interesting lecture, especially the bit that the British were the ones behind the Monroe Doctrine. That was definitely a creative yet intriguing idea of Prof. Schuettinger's once again - DY

Housing was better than I expected, coming from SDSU I had this picture in my head of the typical dorm rooms running down hallways, but I was very pleased with the "flats" as the English call them. Overall I loved the program, the best experience of my life and something I will never forget. When people ask me if they should go I am going to give it nothing but praise - JO

I like my house a lot - HS

I took a tutorial and I really enjoyed it. I had Mark Almond for International Security and I found the readings to be very insightful - LE

I enjoyed Ambassador Sir John Johnson so much. He made the lectures interesting and interactive - AB

I thought I would look back on this wonderful experience and see what I came up with. I am extremely happy that I came on this trip. I had wanted to study abroad ever since I first came to college and this was the perfect experience - AS

I didn't know anyone when I got here and I will be leaving with friends and memories that I will remember for ever. This trip exceeded my expectations in terms of what I learned, how much I learned, and how much fun I had. The week of travel that I had was an amazing week and one that I will look back on for years to come. I will definitely continue to tell my classmates and friends to strongly think about coming on this trip. The staff was brilliant as well as friendly - AS

The lecturers were very knowledgeable and the topics were very relevant to the course. Doc and Prof. Schuettinger do a great job running this program and all I can say is thank you for letting me come on this and I will hope to keep in contact - AS

How many people can say they saw a Shakespearian play in Shakespeare's hometown? - PC

This was an amazing experience - LE

Amazing. I gained an understanding of America and the world that I didn't have before, and how to find "killer facts" - BC

The experiences I've had here have been absolutely amazing and they have definitely surpassed all my expectations. I don't want to leave, I love it here; this trip has been the best experience ever!!! - PC

At the dinner, it was great just talking to Doc, and Sir David Yardley about anything we wanted. I really enjoy just talking like regular human beings with my professors. In the States, they act as though they are in a different league than us - GM

Unfortunately today was my last tutorial. I was very surprised to learn that Sir David likes my essay. He is a very knowledgeable man, in fact one of the most intelligent men I have ever met in my life. I thank and applaud OSAP for this wonderful experience - GM

Living with a British student was fine for us, but I don't think it worked out well for him - BC

I loved the program. I learned more here in six weeks than I have in two years at home - academically and personally - Anon.

I will never forgot this class. I have learned an amazing amount about the world and America - JO

Leading up to the Sistine Chapel seemed like a rat maze. At last, we arrived to the sacred chapel, where the cardinals are locked in until a vote is reached to elect a new pope. Once inside, the words that I could use to attempt to describe the chapel, just wouldn't do it any justice, similar to the way that I felt inside St. Peter's Basilica - NJ

I have changed so much from this trip in so many ways. I now understand what people meant when they say this trip would make me a different person. It really has. I learned about myself so much. I definitely can say I gained tremendous insight about anything and everything from this trip. Being away from my comfort zone in America really has changed my perspective on many things - MM

Overall, words cannot describe this experience and how it has affected me. I have learned so much about myself, the world, and how people work. I have taken so much away from this experience and I have had more fun that I even deserve in the process. I will never forget the memories I have. I will always cherish these six weeks for as long as I live - MM

Very pleased with housing - JO

Everything was amazing. I learned more than I ever imagined -JB

There are many invaluable lessons that I have learned on this trip. We have travelled abroad and learned about different cultures. We have made friends that we will keep for life and memories that will last a lifetime. One thing that most changed was my appreciation for America. I have always loved America and been a proud citizen, but being abroad has made me appreciate it so much more. America truly is the land of opportunity where anything is possible and imagination is always at work. This has been a wonderful trip and I am so grateful for my opportunity - AM

The housing was great - Anon.

This was one of the best experiences that I have had. I was never really into Political Science but taking this class made me appreciate it in a different light - JP

This entire experience has been one that I cannot explain to someone else with words. I can try, but the full experience that I have gone through is something one would have to do themselves just to even understand slightly. This program has done so much for me directly as well as for the future. To all of those that have helped with OSAP as well as the professors and knights that we have had the utmost privilege to listen to I say thank you. Even saying thank you is quite an understatement, however, I do sincerely mean it. Thank you for everything - SB

I am so in love with Dr Stoddard's lectures, he could talk about anything - and anyone would listen. You can see his love for the opportunity to touch our lives in his eyes, and you can hear his deep-rooted passion in his voice - CP

This has been the experience of a lifetime, everything I expected and more. Just the opportunity to hear wordly perspectives, live in flats in Oxford, meet loads and loads of international people, and travel from European city to European city. I am so grateful that I was able to go on this trip, and it has changed quite a few of my outlooks on life, people, politics and friendships, and I am glad, because transformation is always good - CP

The tutorial method of learning that the university has developed is unmatched. It effectively turns out world leaders and brilliant minds. The lifespan of Oxford alone (900 years) is indicative of its capabilities - CP

My housing was fine - JP

I advise everyone to go on this trip! - JP

Today was my last tutorial with Sir David Yardley. His class has been such an experience. He is such a brilliant man. To have the opportunity to simply sit and speak with Sir David about law was one of my favorite experiences here at Oxford. He knows so much, yet he is never condescending when he speaks. This style of teaching encourages students to ask questions and interact, rather than simply sit quietly in the back. I have never been one for asking questions in class. However, the environment of the tutorial is so conducive to asking questions - HW

I would love to have all of my classes in tutorial format. I would do much better in all my classes. By eliminating the anonymity factor that is part of large classes, it forces one to do their best work. My work is exceedingly better in the papers that I read aloud for Sir David, as opposed to the papers that I hand in at my US college. I know I should do equally well on both papers, but that has not been the case. This tutorial experience has made me strive to write all of my papers as though I would be reading them aloud, that is, talking to a person - HW

The houses were pretty nice - CC

I really enjoyed this programme. It was different from any of the lectures I have taken before, so it was nice to learn in different way - RS

Our second lecture today was by far my favourite. The lecturer was Dean G.H.L Le May and he spoke to us about World War II and its effects. He was Winston Churchill's speech writer during World War II. This is so astonishing to me. At some point in time this man spoke directly to Winston Churchill and now he speaks to me. - OP

This made me think back to my political science 103 class and how Professor Ingram remarked over and over the importance of language in politics. The choice of words can make such a difference in interpretation. I can not even imagine how this man altered history. Had he advised Winston Churchill to use some different words history might be completely different - OP

Another thing I was thinking of is the theory of six degrees of separation. It basically says that every person on this planet is separated from every other by no more than six people. If this is true then Winston Churchill and I are separated by only one degree, one person - Dean Le May. That's just amazing! - OP

I feel as though this trip has been a life changing experience. I learned more about myself in the last six weeks than I ever have before - OP

Our housing was better than I expected - RS

It was a privilege to be taught by such an experienced man in foreign affairs - Ambassador Sir John Johnson - Anon.

I truly feel like I have developed and grown so much in the past five weeks and I am sorry to leave. I have made friends and will have forever changed the way that I think. I have stories that will last a lifetime. I tried to explain to my boyfriend what it is like to be here, but no words can accurately describe what this trip has really meant to me. Now I feel that the best way to end this is to quote some of Professor Schuettinger's characteristic phrases "Yes, yes. You see you've learned something. Think about that" - OP

Dr Stoddard's is one of the best professors I have ever had and it was an honor to be his student. Doc really enjoys teaching and has a true passion for it! Then Bob continued with a farewell speech after him, and he reminded me of how lucky I am to be over here in Oxford studying at one of the most prestigious Universities in the world. It really is truly exciting to be over hereÉ feels like a dream! - CB

When Professor Schuettinger asked us what we thought was the most lasting event of the 20th Century, I was very surprised when he explained that it was the empowerment of women. In 1960, only 5% of Harvard Law students were women and by 1980, 20 years later, 50% of the students were women and still are today - CB

It reminded me of how lucky I am to live in a country where I can flourish as a woman. Furthermore, Bob explained that this is one of the reasons why many countries resent America, because of women's rights! - CB

Dr George Bergstrom was one of the best professors that I had at SDSU - SB

Dr Tudor Jones is a brilliant tutor. I learned more about the European Union than I would have thought was possible -MS

Oxford has been an amazing experience I will never forget. I will talk everyone's ear off about my wonderful time I had in Oxford and encourage many people to attend this trip! Thank you so much for everything; it has truly been an unforgettable experience! - CB

Prof. Schuettinger's explanation of effective dates was one of the more useful and interesting lectures. I had considered the end of the British Empire some vague time after World War II, as I concluded it was too exhausted from the war to carry on, but I could pin no exact date. November 7, 1956 I now know (a killer fact) is the day the British Empire effectively ended as the UN General Assembly voted almost unanimously against British action in the Suez Canal. Effective dates are more important than the date some paper was signed and I will attempt to discover more effective dates to pretend that I am smart in class - BC

The St Antony's College Ball was a fantastic experience. A graduate college in International Relations with a very cosmopolitan student body was the ideal college for us - SB

It was a rare pleasure to be able to talk with so many outstanding scholars on the Boat Ride. Unfortunately we hardly ever meet professors outside of class in America. This is just one way that the Oxford system makes a big difference - SB

These past three weeks have hands-down been the best three weeks of my life! - KH

I love when Prof. Schuettinger lectures as well, because he always uses his life experiences (in government) as examples (to illustrate his points) and that always seems to fascinate me - KH

I can honestly say that I have learned more in the past 5 weeks from this course than I have learned in my entire college experience - KH

I feel so confident about discussing politics. I will never forget this amazing experience. I cannot thank Doc and Bob, as well as other lecturers and OSAP staff members, enough for giving me this experience of a lifetime, one I will recommend to every student at my US college - KH

This was one of the most amazing experiences of my life. This trip has changed me in more ways than one - RN

Prof. Schuettinger gave us valuable insights into how the White House actually works. I will never forget that memos (the engines of government) are similar to Oxford essays - that's why Oxford and Cambridge graduates hold most of the top jobs in Britain - Anon.

Dr John Dowling made us think about the cultural differences that motivate Business Executives in America and Europe - JB

We've had such interesting lectures in this program. We've had knights, Oxford Deans, SDSU professors, experts in certain fields, and former Churchill speechwriters. People ask me why I went on this program because I am not a political science major. I wanted to come here because I looked at the past syllabi and saw all of the amazing speakers that people dream about meeting - RN

My eyes were opened up so much on this trip. I've been inspired here to travel, to learn more, to find a career that I can be passionate about, and to look at the world through yet another angle. I just want to say to everyone that reads this thank you. This has been an amazing adventure that I will never forget. Doc you have inspired me. More than most - RN

Dr Alan O'Day, fellow of Greyfriars, Oxford gave a brilliant explanation of the conflict in Northern Ireland and its relation to terrorism in general - CB

The lectures on Africa and Latin America filled important gaps in our knowledge - Anon.

Dr Stoddard's lectures were outstanding and thought provoking to say the least. I talked with my mom the other day on the phone and she asked me what I was getting out of this trip, and if it is what I expected. Firstly I am exceeding my hopes and expectations about this trip in terms of the educational and personal growth I am experiencing - RS

I called my mom back after this lecture and I told her, it's a speech given by Doc that makes this trip worth while, it's the thinking that I will do that will take place long after I'm back in the states because of Doc and other lecturers - RS

The formal dinner was so delightful! When I walked into the room I could just imagine hundreds of generations of students dining in this hall with their professors - RS

I always enjoy Prof. Schuettinger's lectures because he gives us information ("killer facts" - not trivial facts that you can read in any texbook), I would not ordinarily receive in a lecture, and I can use this information when talking to others about a particular subject matter - RS

Dr George Bergstrom was brilliant. I will never forget his lectures on what is happening in Russia, China and India - CB

One thing that stood out for me in this lecture was Prof. Schuettinger saying it is always good to ask, what happens next? He always puts some good ideas in my head which I will think about and discuss long after I leave Oxford. This is what Oxford is all about, thinking for myself, developing my own thoughts and ideas - RS

Dr Stoddard speaks so passionately, and it's inspiring to see someone who obviously enjoys what they do so much. It's not a surprise that he is so well loved by his students and peers - JM

Prof. Schuettinger made an interesting point that if Britain and France had become involved in the American Civil War, (thereby probably forcing Lincoln to find a European ally - probably Prussia/Germany) modern history would be changed completely. Things would be nothing like they are today, and it really makes you think - JM

It was very educational and has changed my life forever. - JW

This has definitely been the most amazing experience of my life. Never at my US university have I had any professors like the ones who spoke on the first day. I learned more on the first day of this three week course that I did in almost an entire semester. - SN

Excellent! Every part of the academic program was amazing. Housing was awesome. - Anon.

Never in my life have I realized the potential that I have to make a difference, to be successful, to grow as a person, as I have on this trip. Indeed, this is to say a lot for the three weeks time that I have been here, but I have never been surrounded by such influential and successful people in my life. To be able to learn more from the best and the brightest in the world is an honor I fear not many people will ever have the chance to experience. - BH

My tutorial with Bob Schuettinger was awesome (he knows a lot about Presidents having worked for one). - DA

I like having such a variety of speakers. All the tours and events were awesome. Everything was very well organized. - Anon.

Every Oxford professor who spoke was more impressive than most of my previous professors combined. I can say that one day did not go by on this entire course where I did not learn something new and relevant to my life. I always knew how professors taught in America. They use their presentations and projectors to catch our attention. However, here that was not the case. It is rare that my attention can be held just by lectures with no visual aids for four or six hours a day and the professors here were unbelievable in gaining not only my complete attention, but that of everyone else in the class as well. - SN

The program was excellent! I will definitely come back either in the Spring or Summer and take a tutorial. - AZ

This has definitely been the most amazing experience of my life. I learned more about the world in these three weeks that I have in my entire life. - SN

Prof. Schuettinger told us that if you're not surprised several times during a lecture, it is not a good lecture. I do believe this is why so many professors at my US university are extremely boring. - BL

Exceptional. This is the most I've learned in this short a time. - RC

Great, overall the best thing academically I have ever done. - Anon

Never did a lecture touch me so deeply. Every part of it was absolutely amazing. Between his selection of readings and own works, I do not believe anything will ever compare. "Doc" Stoddard is the most amazing person I have ever had the opportunity to meet. He has had an enormous effect on my views as well as my motivation for life. He has been an inspiration to me. - BL

I learned more here in 3 weeks than I did in a semester in my US university. - BB

Excellent. Bob Schuettinger was hilarious, Dr Bergstrom is great and knowledgeable. - Anon

I have never had someone in my life that I look up to so much. Dr Stoddard's lectures are absolutely fascinating and I find it hard to sit through one without being inspired. His lectures at both San Diego State and Oxford have been by far the most interesting I have ever heard.

They are indeed what have shaped my new outlook on the world. He is able to point out and understand things that most people would never see. - BC

This has been the greatest experience in my life. - CC

Just as Doc said would happen, I learned more in the past couple of weeks than I have in one semester. It was a mind-opening experience. - LJ

This experience has been a major impact on my life! I learned more in these three weeks than I have in many of my other classes!!! Some of the details that Prof. Schuettinger and others lectured on are not taught in school or even in many books. - VS

The academic program was great. At first I didn't believe the saying that we would learn more here than in a semester at my US university. However its completely true. Everything was organized to the T and all the staff was helpful. I was impressed how well planned it was. - HM

It was great to be back in the Old Library (built in 1310) for class! I didn't realize how much I missed Bob's lectures!!!! Schuettinger's lecture on foreign policy was awesome! I always learn so much from him. I really like how all his points are backed by statistical data. - VS

On a scale of 1 to 100:100. Every lecturer knew so much of what they were speaking to us about and it made learning from them that much better. - Housing was awesome. - KC

Not only did the lecturers drink with us but they engaged in political conversation with each other and with us. It was quite exciting to watch Doc and Dr Black-Branch debate with one another but even more exciting to join in on the conversation. I only wish this type of engagement would occur more often back in the US. - TM

The lectures were incredible. I learned more here in 3 weeks than in one whole semester at home. Housing was great, staff was very helpful. - BH

The reason Oxford has become so special to me is because it has given me a new look on life. The university education that I have received at Oxford is something that I wish I had experienced much earlier in life. Not only have I enjoyed the lectures but I have enjoyed the way I have learned to think. Oxford is not a school but it truly is a University. It is hard to describe but I feel as though a door has now been opened to me in which the world is out there for me to experience. I feel a new motivation for learning and know when I go back to my home university I will be a different man - a better man.(Prof. Schuettinger told us that most students in Oxford become a different person after a few weeks). - TM

It was often told to us by other students that in three weeks at Oxford we will learn more than in a year of education back home. I believe this to be true. - TM

Today's lecturers gave by far the most interesting, enthusiastic, mind-boggling and informative lectures I have ever heard throughout my college career. - AZ

A great experience! This is exactly what my past three weeks at Oxford have been. I have learned a lot; some say that they learn more during their three-week period at Oxford than in 3 years at their US university. I would agree. - AZ

I learned that it is ok to disagree with people, especially your professor. Here at Oxford it is suggested that you disagree with them, for that is when the learning process actually takes place. - AZ

I learned more about international law and US policy in three weeks than I have in my two years at my home college. A conversation in a pub between Oxford professors (in which I joined) was amazing. - LN

Throughout this entire Oxford experience, Bob Schuettinger has made me laugh and brought an immense amount of knowledge into my life. The structure of his lectures was always open to added commentary which usually ended in a humorous example. The education I have received in the past three weeks at Oxford far exceeds any education I have previously received. I have never attended an institution where the instructors are so passionate about their subject area, which inevitably makes learning the subject much more exciting.

I would have never thought sitting in a lecture room for six hours would have been as interesting as it was. I can honestly say I am going to leave Oxford a different person. I have been encouraged to question my professors and to formulate my own opinions rather than have them handed to me. - LW

This has been the greatest experience of my life. - CC

Overall, this was a life changing trip. In the words of past OSAP students "I have learned more in 3 weeks here at Oxford than I have in one and a half years in my US college". - RQ

It is astonishing to think that the room that I sat in was built in 1310 and was the original library of Oxford University. The history and tradition alone truly sweeps one away into imagining what it was like to be in that time. Class here is unique in the sense that the teachers really want their students to learn. It didn't take long to figure out what the teachers and past students meant when I was told that you learn more in three weeks in Oxford than you do in all your undergraduate work in the states. - RS

Never in my student life, at any of the institutions that I have attended, have I walked out of class and had conversations about the topic with my friends and peers. The teaching style here challenges you and engages you to the point that you feel instantly passionate about the subjects being taught. - BT

I can say without a doubt that this was the most educational three weeks of my life. Never have I met so many truly bright people that care so much about the young minds they teach.

I learned that the word doctor in front of a name does not necessarily mean that individuals possess the intellect suitable for brilliance, instruction, or even competence; but what makes people true teachers is their dedication to understand events and to show their students the truth. This I feel is the essence of a professor, not some title given to them by a university. This is exactly what I found at Oxford. It is no wonder why it is one of the best institutions in the world.

Teachers here refuse to hold back and challenge every facet of each mind they come into contact with, often times encouraging you or even requiring you to disagree. This is what I appreciate the most about Oxford and the study abroad program. I find that each person that is teaching from day to day truly cares and longs to make a difference in the world not by shaping young minds but rather stimulating young people into shaping their own minds. - RT

I learned important things that I have never heard before involving American policies and history and I couldn't help but feel that I was cheated since I was never taught them before. The words really are true when it is said you learn more in three weeks here than in one's entire undergraduate life. This couldn't be more true. Each lecture was saturated with Prof. Schuettinger's saying of: "You didn't learn that in school, did you?" And we didn't not only most of the time but all of the time. - BM

Perfect. - SK

I was told I would learn more here in 3 weeks than any time in my academic career. Well that is definitely true. - BC

I could describe this course as changing me in terms of teaching me about critical thinking. In coming to Oxford most people told me I would learn quite a bit which thus far has been a true statement. I believe most importantly though, Oxford has changed the ways in which I analyze the information I learn.

Most students today take down notes from a power point only to memorize the information and regurgitate it out on a test for a letter grade without even understanding what they learned.

Coming to Oxford and listening to such speakers as Bob Schuettinger has made me realize that it's not only important to listen to your lecturers but to also understand them. Taking in what they say and using it to analyze and form your own ideas to challenge existing ones is the most important piece of information I have learned during my stay here at Oxford. - RS

I thought all of the lectures were brilliant. - KG

As a lecturer I felt Sir David Yardley could speak for hours daily without his listeners ever tiring of what he had to say. Robert Schuettinger was our second speaker of the day in which he compared British and US foreign policy. While Bob usually provides many killer facts when he speaks, I found the most interesting to be on the private British companies which originally founded several of the thirteen colonies. As Bob said, this is a killer fact, which our high schools never taught us (it explains why America is more entrepreneurial than Europe). I also found a quote from his lecture to be highly interesting "The purpose of language is not to express but to conceal thought" (from the French Foreign Minister, Talleyrand) . - RS

Amazing. I felt inspired to learn with the amazing lectures. I would definitely recommend this to all my friends. - Anon

Amazing! Everything was great! - SP

Every single speaker has been incredible. The lectures are more than I could have imagined. Every day there was so much enthusiasm about the subject from the lecturers that it was contagious. I have learned more in these three weeks than I did in four years of high school.

Being able to have discussions/arguments with highly educated people in pubs and informal settings is something rarely found in the States. Not only did every lecturer encourage us to disagree, but their ears were wide open to listen to our arguments. In the States, most people with a BA think they are better, smarter, and all around right. And usually they will not hear the opinions of college students, especially teachers. It was quite refreshing and an appreciated change to be taken seriously by my professors. - LK

Amazing! Truly exceptional! It is true to say that you really do learn more in Oxford for 3 weeks compared to a semester in my home college. - JH

I know students say this all the time, but now I know it is surely true. I have learned more at Oxford over the past three weeks than I would have ever be able to learn at home. Maybe it is because of the phenomenal professors who are able to teach with a level of enthusiasm not felt at home, but are also able to show us first hand exactly what they are talking about. (Almost all have had real experience in government so they don't rely on textbooks, workbooks and sample power points). LS

Adam and the OSAP staff did a great job taking us around and helping us with any problems! - LJ

Lectures overall were absolutely thrilling and better than any others in my home university. Everything was put together very well - Anon.

Life changing. - RS

Excellent academic program. The housing was fun. Be ready for the time of your life. - JW

The success of Oxford rests in the holistic approach to education. When a student attends my US university, for example, he will pursue his degree as he enjoys a meal from the cafeteria - a la carte. The courses he takes may or may not interrelate, the professors may or may not engage him in thought, and he may or may not achieve anything beyond fleeting memorisation in order to achieve a passing mark.

On the contrary, the Oxford experience can be likened to dining at a five-star restaurant. The meal is served in logical order, one course after another, spaced accordingly with time to reflect and discuss the previous course over a glass of good wine, before the next course is served. The chef spends countless hours perfecting the recipe to ensure it sits well on the palate and is not too much to digest.

Time is available to speak individually with the chef to discuss the fine points of the dish, and fully understand its greatness, or comment on its shortcomings. Finally, one is left with both physiological satisfaction as the meal is complete; not just the feeling of being "full" as with the "a la carte" example.

I am a believer. I wasn't sure what to expect when coming to Oxford, but now I know why it is world-renowned. The Oxford experience is like no other I have come across. I have been challenged mentally and will walk away with a life-changing experience. I will walk away knowing more of who I am, than I did when I arrived. I will walk away knowing more about my political beliefs than I did when I arrived. And most importantly, I will walk away from a three-week program with an idea of how I can change the world and make a difference. - MK

The experience was surreal. I have definitely learned more here than during my three years at my US university. All the lecturers were brilliant, bright and understandable. - anon.

Excellent experience! Flats were nice. - MK

Intellectually challenging. The professors' lectures were the most beneficial lectures I have ever attended. - SM

It was intensive yet a unique and fact-filled three weeks; the discussions with the lecturers outside of class were a definite bonus I did not expect. Adam was very helpful with housing and other concerns. - OA

It was nice having different lecturers with different points of view. (This doesn't always happen in many US classes). - SL

The lecturers were intelligent, witty and entertaining. I learned more than I could possibly have imagined. Everything was AMAZING! The London tour was extremely interesting. All of the events i.e. pub crawls, the formal dinner at New College, etc. were planned out very well and were a lot of fun. The dinner was fantastic. It was just all incredible. This was a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget. - LK

Lecturers (especially our two knights, Sir David Yardley and Sir John Johnson) were all very informative and most were entertaining. - HM

I especially liked Bob Schuettinger's and Doc Stoddard's lectures. I feel I learned the most from their lectures. I thought all of the tours and events were planned very well. Over all the programme was run exceptionally well. - Anon.

I've learned more here in 3 weeks than I have back home for a whole year. - CS

I absolutely loved the program. The lecturers were amazing because they had so much experience with the subject matter and were so passionate. (Most had first-hand experience in government). Everything was so well organized! - KD

This has been an experience of a life time. I have learned more in three weeks than I have in a year in my US university. I took the additional tutorial on the American presidency with Bob Schuettinger which was great as well. Bob is such an intellect, and a sincere and nice individual. (Prof. Schuettinger is both a former fellow of Oxford University and a former White House aide in foreign policy). The OSAP staff was great. - DF

I have learned more in this one Political Science course than in any other course I have taken before. This was the most amazing experience of my life. - CC

The program was definitely life changing. I was impressed about how well organized this program is. - BB

During this course I have asked myself and many other students exactly why so many say that they learn more in six weeks in Oxford than they do in 2 or 3 years back home.

Some say it is because of study abroad but I don't think that can be the full explanation (it is possibly a part).

As I have heard from other US study abroad students and professors most US study abroad programs are not very intellectually demanding - the usual idea is for students (and professors!) to get to travel and have fun, with a thin veneer of academic work.

This Oxford program is very different. In six weeks we had four examinations, read two required books, we wrote an essay on a third book and wrote a student journal of about 7-10,000 words. More than half of us also took an Oxford tutorial - in International Law, the European Union, Terrorism, International Business, etc. In these courses we had to read 4-5 books a week (not every page) and write essays of 1500-2000 words which were carefully scrutinised by our individual tutors in classes of one student each.

Several students confessed to me that when they handed in research papers at home much of their writing was "filler" - obvious generalisations that everyone knows already. In Oxford you have to read your paper to your tutor. Here anyone would be embarrassed to read out empty verbiage - facts based on extensive reading and closely reasoned arguments are essential. You can't hide in the back of a room.

In addition we were able to discuss ideas with our tutors and lecturers in many informal settings outside of the classroom, as is customary in Oxford. This made a great difference.

In Oxford you are constantly urged (even ordered!) to disagree with your teacher and think for yourself.

Besides their brilliant academic qualifications, about 80% of our teachers had had distinguished careers (often part-time or for a few years now and again) in government - in the British Foreign Office, the Prime Minister's Office, the White House and State Department, as a judge, as an intelligence officer, etc. etc. Two were knighted by Queen Elizabeth II. It seemed to most of us that this added experience made their teaching come alive. Every lecture involved valuable insights on how human nature works and how the world works - the essence of a liberal arts education.

The University of Oxford itself could not fail to inspire students. We were often aware that we were in a long line of students wearing black academic gowns who had studied here before us - some were here 900 years ago.

Living close together as we were we had 16 hour days - we often discussed ideas and theories with other OSAP students and with British Oxford students in our homes, in pubs, at dinners, receptions, etc. This, I think, was a crucial part of the experience. Too often, too many of us, I fear, simply sat in classrooms and never thought about the subject when we left the room. That does not happen in Oxford.

As far as I can judge (based upon many conversations) these are some of the reasons many of us at least learned more in six weeks than we ever learned before - SB