While I am a visiting third year student from Cornell University in the United States, I have also lived in Australia and Singapore, which is where I have called home most of my life. At Cornell, I major in Government with a minor in Law and Society, while I read Politics and Philosophy here in Mansfield College. Having been generously sponsored by the Monetary Authority of Singapore throughout my undergraduate studies, I will return upon graduation to take up a position in the Authority. The study of political systems and ideas has been a rewarding and challenging enterprise for me, and will serve me well in my chosen field of work.

The process of applying for the year abroad in Oxford was surprisingly straightforward for me. Cornell Abroad does an excellent job of briefing applicants and coordinating their applications. The admissions and accommodation officers here in Mansfield were extraordinarily diligent and helpful throughout the process of applying for a visa and selecting accommodation. While obtaining a visa to the UK was not the simplest process, prospective visiting students should not feel intimidated. A good dosage of patience and diligent checking of emails should suffice to get one through the said process.

My experience this past year at Mansfield has far exceeded my personal expectations. Mansfield is all that it purports to be, and then some. I have made and enjoyed meaningful friendships with my tutors and fellow students, as well as the dining hall staff. It is an open secret that Mansfield students enjoy some of the best and affordable food an Oxford student can find both in and outside the college. While football trainings in winter provided a respite from the rain and snow, summer has really been the highlight of my time here. From Rounders and Croquet Cuppers to punting on the Cherwell and sailing in Farmoor Reservoir, it is almost a miracle to me that I have still found time to complete the twelve essays in Trinity Term.

I have found no shortage of work, opportunity and entertainment here in Mansfield College, and count this year abroad as a year deservedly spent.

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