For 35 years, Yeager Scholars from Marshall University have traveled to the “city of dreaming spires” to further their education in literature or political science. The Ferguson Class of 2026, which includes four students from the College of Science, is the latest group of students to make the journey to Oxford in the name of higher education. Asha Bora, a biology major and member of Marshall’s cross country team, recounts her time as a scholar in England:
“Over the past three weeks, I studied English Literature at Oxford’s Exeter College. Although I was initially hesitant about taking difficult classes outside my major, I feel the courses have helped me gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of literary analysis and Shakespeare, thanks to my excellent tutors and diverse range of opinions from classmates.
Along with the educational opportunities provided by this study abroad, I was also able to explore Oxford and a few of the surrounding cities with my Yeager classmates. I toured several of the university’s other colleges, went to a Hozier concert in London, and saw Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon. Above all, I value the memories I made with my fellow Yeager scholars, who are some of my closest friends. I’m extremely grateful for the Yeager Program for providing me this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Oxford and Exeter will always hold a special place in my heart.”