Leading up to my study abroad opportunity in Oxford, I spent a month working as an EMT and shadowing at the ER in my hometown. I enjoyed the experience immensely, and I learned a great deal from it. However, during that time, my life moved extremely fast. I worked long, odd hours (sometimes upwards of 70 hours a week), and I got little time to reflect on the small aspects of beauty in everyday life. Even during the regular academic year, I frequently notice the weeks slipping by in a haze of exciting opportunities, adventures, and homework.
What little free time I had in June, I used to complete the pre-trip assignments for my study abroad in Oxford. I read about the transformative, emotional experiences generations of academics had in Oxford, and I eagerly anticipated my own revelation.
Arriving in Oxford, I discovered the town was indeed breathtaking. The history, architecture, and atmosphere immediately captivated me. What I didn’t expect was that my most profound experience during the initial days of the trip would happen alone and away from the historic architecture and academic sites.
Waking up to the early rising Oxford sun, I went for a jog along the Oxford canal which connects with the River Thames. Along the way, I stopped at a number of gardens and scenes of greenery. I witnessed the animals and the atmosphere of the town slowly come alive over the next few hours. I decided to briefly meditate in one of the gardens and was overtaken by an incredible sense of calm. The natural beauty of Oxford allowed me to see past the academic hustle and begin to appreciate the beauty of what it is we study.
