Prospective students strolled through Somerville on Friday as part of the University of Oxford’s Open Day, their path decorated with balloons in the College colours.
They were greeted by current students in trademark ‘Somerville Red’ T-shirts, taken through the grounds and treated to a view of the restored front of the library, which emerged from under its wrapping only this week.
As they considered their possible entrance to the College, others were taking their formal exit, finishing their undergraduate degrees with a visit to their College, accompanied by friends and family, and dressed in formal gowns.
“Graduating is a surreal experience,” said Kate Travers, one of the Somervillians who graduated this week. “All the crowds of people, the academic robes – and so much Latin!”
“But it’s a great feeling to know that all the hard work paid off,” she added. “Although it’s sad to be leaving Somerville, it’s good to know that you never really lose touch with the College and the people you study with.”
Among those attending celebratory drinks in the early evening sun was Dr Alice Prochaska, the College Principal.
“I am thrilled that the College’s microclimate has produced its customary spell of sunshine for the occasion!” said Alice. “And it’s been a pleasure to meet the prospective students. I’m looking forward to welcoming many of them back here as undergraduates.”