Student Evaluations
THE SUCCESS of OPUS is both reflected in, and has been inspired by, the comments of its participants. Actively involved in this program and its development and secure in the knowledge of our policy of openness, honesty, and a genuine desire to impart, it is our students who have shaped and contributed to countless improvements big and small in our pursuit of excellence and it is to them that we pay tribute.
Set out below are a few comments from several hundred similar testimonials received in written evaluations from participants since the Program began eleven years ago. Significantly, and unique in any program, is the consistency of perception over the years.
Recent Letter
At the end of the Michaelmas Term 2000, we received the following letter in our offices. Unsolicited, unexpected, and quite unsurpassed, even by our expectations, we proudly reproduce here for general information and for the benefit of prospective candidates.
I would like this opportunity to mention my personal feelings about OPUS. I had many concerns about leaving the US to study abroad, but my feelings were put to rest immediately upon arrival because of DM (Program Director) and the OPUS progam. Beginning with Orientation and continuing throughout my entire stay OPUS provided everything needed for a student studying in a foreign country.
The OPUS program was very helpful with giving guidance to students who were not accustomed to a tutorial education, or to the traditions and culture of England. My experience in Oxford was completely positive, and this I feel is a direct result of the dedication of the OPUS program. I would highly recommend the OPUS program to anyone interested in a stress-free experience of a lifetime.
The housing provided by OPUS was more than adequate. It was very convenient to live close to the city center, in a quiet and safe neighborhood. If maintenance was needed, problems were resolved instantaneously.
The tutors whom I was placed with were truly experts in their field. They were patient and intelligent, which makes an excellent combination for a successful educational experience. I have learned more in one term at Oxford than in one year at my home university.
I have had the opportunity over the last few months to meet other students who came to Oxford through programs other than OPUS. These students are often jealous when I tell them about my experiences with the OPUS program. They were surprised to learn that I was able to see other parts of England, through day-trips arranged by the OPUS program, and even more surprised to hear that after the group flight into London the students were met at the airport by OPUS and taken to their prospective houses. There are many programs available to students who want to study abroad. But OPUS is one of those rare organizations that goes the extra mile, meeting, then exceeding one's expectations.
M.M. SUNY Stonybrook, Michaelmas 2000
General
"Best times of my entire life".
L.N. DePauw University, Michaelmas 2004
"Oxford is an incredible place to live. Not only are the academics top-notch, but the city has a social life to match. The students know how to study and they know how to party. It is an atmosphere like no other.
J.C. University of California San Diego, Trinity 2000
"OPUS is a great experience for American students, Oxford is a lovely small city that has almost everything picky Americans want! And the tutorial system was a challenging one that still allowed time to have fun. I've had a great time even though I can't find the words to put a finger on the impact and impression Oxford has had on me."
E.J. George Mason University, Michaelmas 1999
"Honestly, one term in this fine institution is not enough. I wish I had opted earlier to stay longer. It has been a rewarding experience to say the least."
A.P. University of Rochester, Michaelmas 1998
"I don't want to leave. This has been the most noteworthy experience of my life. I won't forget it, ever."
M.M. Cornell University, Trinity 1998
"Every day in Oxford is a life in itself."
N.F. Washington University, Michaelmas 1995
"I think coming to Oxford was the best decision I ever made. I regret, however only staying for one term."
A.D. SUNY Albany, Michaelmas 1992
Orientation
"Orientation was very informative, fun, intensive, I really enjoyed it!"
K.U. George Mason University, Michaelmas 2000
"Orientation was very useful, especially since we came here knowing absolutely nothing. It also gave us a chance to meet other students. I belonged to New College Rowing and Oxford University Tennis. Both are invaluable experiences that I would recommend."
J.C. University of Califomia San Diego, Michaelmas 1999
"I found Orientation extremely useful. There was quite a bit of information, but everything needed to be said. Not too long because of breaks."
K.B. DePauw University, Hilary 1996
"The Orientation was very useful and informative - I think it covered all the 'basics' of living in Oxford."
K.W. Hartwick College, Michaelmas 1994
Academics
"I was amazed by the exceptional quality of teaching and I learned a lot during the eight weeks. I also appreciated the fact that my tutors treated me the same as other Oxford students"
M.W. Tennessee State University, Michaelmas 2000
"Tutorials are so class that I am not looking forward to going back to lectures. Perhaps I can establish tutorials at my home University"
D.C. Washington University, Trinity 2000
"The tutorial system in Oxford is excellent - I learned a lot and it was very challenging, but fun, I think I will came back for another degree!"
J.M. Dartmouth, Hilary 2000
"My tutors - both absolutely wonderful! Very helpful, very knowledgeable, very good/open minded to new thoughts, etc."
G. C. St Edward's University, Michaelmas 1999
"Both AH and SP (tutors) were sensitive, intelligent, and eager to discuss with me, not lecture at me. This was a first for me. Their criticism of my essays was very helpful".
R.F. Cornell University, Hilary 1997
"The tutorial system is, simply put, the highest quality education possible to receive. The work load is intense - a bit more than I expected."
M.L. DePauw University, Trinity 1996
"I loved my tutors! They are both very intelligent and interesting women whom I feel lucky to have been given the opportunity to work with. I really learned a lot through their instruction."
K. Y. University of Buffalo, Hilary 1996
Housing
"My housing was just wonderful!"
A.T. Kumamoto University, Japan Trinity 2000
"The housing accomodations are great. They are a real strength of the program."
S.S. De Pauw University, Hilary 2000
"The laser printer and computers are awesome, and we made good use of them."
D.R. Washington University, Hilary 1999
"Great location, beautiful houses. This is the best housing I've gotten as a student in four years."
K. B. Drexel University, Trinity 1998
"The students should be told that the housing is exceptional. I was awaiting a run down flat, and I found one much nicer than apartments in the states."
E.M. SUNY Geneseo, Trinity 1996
"Very pleased with housing accommodations. No problems." A.S.B. University of Rochester, Hilary 1996
"I was very happy with my housing, it was comfortable, well located and 'homely'."
F.U. University of MD at College Park, Michaelmas 1995
"Housing was excellent. Problems which arose were dealt with quickly and efficiently."
M.K. University of Toronto, Michaelmas 1993
Social Integration
"I thought the OPUS trips were excellent - especially the London weekend. That was amazing. "
M.H. Mary Washington, Michaelmas 2000
"Joining the Lincoln basketball team was great. I got to know a few more people here and got to participate in athlectics at a colleglate level which I can't do at home."
S. R. UCLA, Michaelmas 2000
"The Oxford Bach Choir was an amazing experience! Superb quality singing, extraordinary directors but in a relaxed setting - loved my time with the choir."
A. B. George Washington, Michaelmas 2000
"The Union Society is a wonderful place. Being an American, I got away with not being teased for being too posh, and free entrance to the Purple Turtle is key."
A. G. Dartmouth College, Hilary 2000
"The trips were very well organized, usually a perfect amount of time alloted at each location."
M. A. SUNY Geneseo, Hilary 2000
"I really enjoyed every single tour. They were great. Thank you. The program was great, I had a fantastic time. I really enjoyed my studies, and staying at Oxford."
A.S. George Mason University, Michaelmas 1999
"Rowing, I cannot stress how good Hertford's boat club has been to me this year - socially, athletically. I would not know anyone at Hertford unless I had rowed. The regattas are great fun and the boat club dinners are really great."
J.F. SUNY Albany, Trinity 1999
"The tours are a great way to see some of England. It's great not having to plan or pay for anything."
M. C. Corsnell University, Trinity 1999
"Teddy (St Edmund) Hall is the friendliest college in the world, I know 70% of the students by name... A place to go for real interaction."
N. F. Washington University, Michaelmas 1995
"The JCR was very good. I was able to hang out there, feel comfortable, play tennis..."
D.L. Washington University, Trinity 1995
"The Union Society was excellent. The debates and speakers were amazing."
R. T. Colgate University, Hilary 1994
"The events I attended were all enjoyable. The welcoming dinner was a great way to experience Oxford traditions and the trips were well planned."
C. C. Davidson College, Michaelmas 1994
"The OPUS tours and events are FANTASTIC! They should definitely be continued."
M. K. University of Toronto, Michaelmas 1993
Administration & Overall
"Everyone was helpful, prompt, good natured, etc. A thousand blessing on them! The program was so wonderful in that it fully integrated students into the Oxford culture. Other programs.....limit intercultural exchange, not OPUS"
J. B. SUNY Buffalo, Hilary 2001
"My overall impression is that OPUS is the best program available for Americans wishing to study abroad."
A. B. Mercyhurst College, Michaelmas 2000
"I am so pleased with everything in this program and Oxford. I am grateful for all the help of everyone and I would not change this experience for anything."
M. D. SUNY Brockport, Michaelmas 2000
"Everyone has been very helpful!! I felt very safe, looked after, and genuinely cared about by everyone associated with the program."
M.M. SUNY Geneseo, Hilary 1999
"Everyone has been wonderful! Attentive and responsive to any problems that arose which were few, if any."
D.C. SUNY Stonybrook, Hilary 1999
"It was excellent; I'd recommend it to friends"
P. U. University of Maryland, Michaelmas 1998
"DM (Program Director) is very organized, helpful, friendly and informative. I am grateful to have had his help during my stay. Excellent administrator."
M.K. Washington University, Trinity 1998
"OPUS is top-notch. I have learned a lot and my experience has been indescribable!"
K.B University of Tennessee, Hilary 1998
"OPUS does a very good job overall; everything seems to run very smoothly. Tutor placement was excellent."
E.G. Washington University, Hilary 1998
"The best aspect of the program is its assiduous concern for the students."
T.K. Washington University, Michaelmas 1997
"I do feel that OPUS is a good program and I received a lot from it. The best aspects are placement, housing, tutors and colleges."
K.C. Nazareth College, Michaelmas 1996
"The program offers a quality 'experience' - Oxford, the tours, faculty/student mixers. After talking to other Americans on different programs I rate OPUS highly - best at Oxford."
M.L. DePauw University, Trinity 1996
"It was wonderful to be driven straight from the airport to our new residence, and I certainly hope that it is continued."
K.R. Johns Hopkins University, Trinity 1995
"I think OPUS is doing an excellent job, the academics were what I'd expected and I felt attention was given if I required it."
M.B. Colgate University, Hilary 1995
"I have talked to people in many of the rival programs...and I have no doubt OPUS is superior in every way, the accommodation, the academic program, the social integration, and its special events. DM is one of the most competent persons I have known."
N.F. Washington University, Michaelmas 1995
"I appreciate the easy going friendly approach."
A.M. Cornell University, Trinity 1994
"OPUS is a wonderful program. I am so glad I had this opportunity to study abroad. DM is extremely organized and extremely helpful. He saw that we were all settled in properly and then checked on us periodically. He resolved any problems quickly and compassionately. He is one of the best aspects of the program."
M. O. SUNY Geneseo, Michaelmas 1993
"I believe that OPUS is definitely meeting its primary objective. The best aspects of the Program are the people and the flexibility they give the students."
M.B. Duke University, Michaelmas 1993
"I think OPUS is an exceptional program and I'm so pleased to have been a part of it. It was extremely effective for me and I hope all future OPUS students have as great an experience as I did."
J.L. SUNY Geneseo, Trinity 1993
"The program is anyone's dream and was beyond any expectations I could ever perceive. Keep up the Program's thoroughness and it will remain a success for years to come."
M.B. SUNY Stonybrook, Trinity 1993
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