A Celebration of Living in England: A Poetic Tribute
Ashwin Prabaharan, an Opinions Editor at Oxford University, recently shared his experiences of the unique culture of friendship and camaraderie he encountered during his stay in the United Kingdom. The article, titled "Profiles", was written in a personal capacity and does not reflect an official endorsement on the part of the SGA or any other campus entity at Holy Cross.
Upon arriving in the United Kingdom in October 2024, Prabaharan was initially expecting a hardened and blunt culture. However, he was pleasantly surprised by the gracious, vibrant, and friendly nature of the locals, particularly in Oxford.
The academic environment at Oxford is steeped in tradition, with customs like 'trashing' and formal events like balls fostering camaraderie among students. The collegiate system promotes a close-knit community within colleges, where students frequently engage in discussions, debates, and social activities, helping build strong friendships and a sense of belonging.
Prabaharan found the English culture to place a strong emphasis on the outdoors and camaraderie. He observed that the locals in Oxford were eager to make new friends and learn about their colleagues, which further enhanced the social environment.
The university's various societies and clubs provide ample opportunities for socializing and forming friendships. International students often find it challenging to integrate initially, but as they settle, they develop a strong sense of community. The unique cultural and historical context of Oxford shapes the way friendships evolve.
The diversity of international students enriches the cultural landscape, leading to meaningful cross-cultural exchanges and friendships that transcend national boundaries. The role of international students as agents of transnational mobility can influence how friendships are formed, maintained, and valued within the context of global societies.
Prabaharan, who is also running for Co-Presidents of the SGA (Student Government Association) at Holy Cross alongside Luke Cambra, is excited to return to the United States and complete his final year of college. He will be taking the helm of The Spire next year alongside Will McHale. The article was edited by Lily Wasmund '28, and features photos courtesy of Charlotte Fallon '26 and Mara Galvin '24, and Valentina Moran '23.
- Prabaharan's unexpected discovery of the friendly and vibrant culture in Oxford, England, during his stay, was initially contrasted by his anticipation of a hardened culture.
- The collegiate system in Oxford not only fosters academic growth but also promotes a close-knit community, where students engage in discussions, debates, and social activities that help build friendships and a strong sense of belonging.
- Prabaharan observed that the local culture in Oxford placed a strong emphasis on camaraderie and the outdoors, and he found that the local people were eager to make new friends and learn about others.
- The university's various societies and clubs offer ample opportunities for socializing and forming friendships, though international students may initially find it challenging to integrate, eventually developing a strong sense of community.
- The cultural and historical context of Oxford, and the diversity of international students, contribute to meaningful cross-cultural exchanges and friendships that transcend national boundaries, influencing the way friendships are formed and valued within global societies.
