This summer, Christian Maloney '21 and John DiGravio '21 attended the Reagan-Thatcher Lecture Series at the University of Oxford. Their participation was sponsored by the George Edward Durell Scholarship, a special grant from the Intercollegiate Studies Institute.
In the final week of the programme, Christian and John completed their tutorials. Christian concluded his study of the American presidency, while John wrote his last essay on Edmund Burke and the French Revolution. After parting with their Oxford tutors, Christian and John embarked on a final day trip to Windsor Castle.
Studying at Oxford has been a great privilege for John and Christian. Brief reflections on their experiences are written below.
John DiGravio '21: I am extremely grateful to have participated in the Reagan-Thatcher Lecture Series at Oxford this summer. This has been a deeply fulfilling and unique academic experience. The intimacy and intensity of the Oxford tutorial system is unlike any other college class, and it encouraged me to explore new ways to research and write. Through careful and deliberate teaching, Dr. Jones guided me through the tutorial process and helped me build a firm foundation in the philosophy and writings of Edmund Burke. The University of Oxford and the surrounding city are historic and beautiful. It was a special privilege to study and live in the same places where so many distinguished persons have walked before. Our travels gave me a sense of Great Britain's geographic and regional diversity, and also a great respect for the history and national icons of its people. As I move on from this programme, I know that the lessons that I have learned, the friendships I have formed, and the experiences I have enjoyed will continue to inspire me for years to come. I extend my deepest gratitude to the Intercollegiate Studies Institute for making this possible.
Christian Maloney '21: The Reagan-Thatcher Lecture Series has significantly broadened my academic horizons. I have expanded my understanding of conservatism and its role in domestic and international politics. Lectures on topics such as Margaret Thatcher’s fiscal policies taught me the unique characteristics of British conservatism, while other lectures on topics such as the Falklands War helped me understand the historical context of the U.K.'s geopolitical situation. My tutorial on the U.S. presidency with Dr. Mark Almond taught me how to apply political theory and contemporary political science research to improve my understanding of the commander-in-chief’s role in the American political system. Dr. Almond's teaching and reading also helped me explore the complex roles of political actors, the media, and the American public in policy formation and execution. I am very grateful for the chance to study at Oxford, and thank the Intercollegiate Studies Institute for its support.
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