Oxford Creative Writing Program - Week 1

 

After 2 long days of travel and a couple of wrong turns later I finally stumbled, heavily jet lagged through the grand entranceway of Exeter college.  I was relieved to meet some of  the other students joining the course -  'phew' I'd come to the right place! We were greeted at the door by the college porter. Who presented us with our room keys and directed us towards the summer school office, where we were given our welcome packs and names badges. After which people either went straight up to their rooms to relax or hung chatting in the front quadrangle. 

 

The first thing that struck me was the Exeter campus itself - it is breathtaking. We found ourselves surrounded by castle like sandstone buildings with vines and climbing roses, stunning stained glass windows and ancient gargoyles.  Having been built in 1314 Exeter college is the fourth oldest college in Oxford. Just don't walk on the grass in the front quad ( only the Oxford 'fellows' are allowed to do that sort of thing ).  

 At 5 o'clock that first evening we attended our orientation, meeting followed by a drinks reception in the fellows garden. Here we got a chance to mingle and get to know our peers and teachers, and the girls all made sure their heels didn't get stuck in the grass! ( the fellows have allowed us use of the garden during the summer school, usually only they are allowed in). We then moved on into the hall for our reception dinner ( think Harry Potter and you've about got it! ) with everyone dressed in their best and the teachers seated at the high table at the head of the hall. All the meals are served in the dining hall, and we are provided with plenty of delicious food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Everyone went off to bed early that evening, excited for the start of classes the next day.

 

 

Classes are held from 9-11 or 4-6 every day, with each student taking a seminar for one of their two chosen courses during one of the time slots on alternating days. We also attend a 1 and a half hour plenary session each day as well. The sessions are given by a different practitioner In the industry each time - literary agents, authors, poets.  Each of these sessions looked at a different element of the writing/publishing industry - with students eager to question the presenters at every opportunity. 

 

 

Last but definitely not least there is always plenty of fantastic friendly staff on hand, more then willing to help you out.  Our Summer school assistants Joe Bluck and Richard Broadbridge were quick to welcome us leading us out into Oxford for our very first pub walk on the Monday night. During the walk we also got to experience many beautiful and historical parts of the city - getting a look at the iconic 'bridge of sighs' and a few of the other colleges situated around Oxford, before getting to know each other over a cider at the King of Arms pub. Tuesday night introduced the first of our 'open mic nights' where students were given the opportunity to read their work aloud and have it discussed by their peers in the Audience. It was a very friendly atmosphere and a great experience was had by all. 

 

On Wednesday evening Richard led us on an enjoyable and informative tour through the university gardens, where (some of us at least) we're excited to spot our first squirrel!  

 

There is plenty for students to enjoy outside of their classes, whether it be taking part in an activity or just kicking back and playing some pool in Exeter's Undercroft bar. Our first week as students at Exeter college has been jam packed with study and with out a doubt - fun! I can't wait to fill you all in on our next week!

See you next time....

 

Kiri :- )

 

Kiri Zobel is participating on our Oxford Creative Writing program this July 2012. Kiri is in her 3rd year of a Bachelor of Arts at University of Canberra