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Manila Bulletin devider Opinion devider The significance of Oxford's St. Hugh's College in my journey

The significance of Oxford's St. Hugh's College in my journey

Published Sep 10, 2024 04:09 pm

NIGHT OWL

Anna Mae Lamentillo.jpg

As I prepare for the remarkable journey from the Philippines to St. Hugh’s College, Oxford, I am filled with a profound sense of anticipation and gratitude. I often reflect on my childhood, when I was a three-year-old flipping through an Oxford dictionary, struggling to pronounce words correctly. Back then, my favorite subject was math, and speaking was a challenge due to my diction problems. I spent about five years with a tutor to improve my communication skills. The idea that this young, hesitant child would one day study at Oxford University seemed like an impossible dream. Yet here I am, on the brink of that very dream becoming a reality. St. Hugh’s College, with its rich history of providing opportunities to women who would otherwise be excluded from Oxford due to financial constraints, embodies the transformative power of education and the realization of dreams that once seemed out of reach.

 

St. Hugh’s College was founded in 1886 by Elizabeth Wordsworth, a visionary determined to create educational opportunities for women who faced financial barriers. At a time when access to higher education was largely restricted to men, Wordsworth's commitment to inclusivity and her use of her inheritance to establish the college represented a radical and progressive vision. The college was named after Hugh of Avalon, reflecting a legacy of broadening educational access. Wordsworth’s mission was to ensure that women, regardless of their financial means, could pursue academic excellence and contribute to society. This pioneering spirit resonates deeply with me, as I see my own journey as part of a continuum of overcoming barriers and seizing opportunities for personal and professional growth.

 

The historical journey of St. Hugh’s from its initial establishment to its current prominence is a testament to resilience and adaptability. The college’s transition from 25 Norham Road to its present site on St. Margaret’s Road, and its adaptation during World War II when it served as a hospital, illustrate its enduring commitment to serving its community. The eventual shift to a co-educational institution in 1978 further underscores St. Hugh’s dedication to inclusivity and progress. For me, being part of St. Hugh’s is not just about joining a prestigious academic institution; it is about aligning with a legacy of overcoming challenges and pushing boundaries.

 

Education is a transformative force, and St. Hugh’s embodies this principle by offering a platform for individuals to realize their full potential. As I embark on this journey, I am motivated by the knowledge that I am joining a community with a strong tradition of inclusivity and excellence. My aim is to leverage this opportunity to gain knowledge and insights that I can bring back to the Philippines, contributing to its development and taking pride in the potential of its people.

 

Being accepted to St. Hugh’s College is not just an academic achievement; it is a culmination of a lifelong journey marked by resilience, growth, and a commitment to making a difference. The college’s history of overcoming barriers and its dedication to inclusivity align with my own experiences and aspirations. I am honored to be part of this legacy and am excited to contribute to the vibrant academic community at St. Hugh’s, shaping my future and working towards a better future for my country.

 

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NIGHT OWL Anna Mae Lamentillo
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