The Penguin Review
Abstract
After ten hours on a plane and a one-hour drive from Heathrow Airport, nothing felt more exciting than seeing the Oxford sign for the first time. I remember my hands were shaking as I stepped into an entirely new experience. Leaving warm California for a place widely known for continuous rain and cold was something I never imagined I would be ready for. Yet Oxford gave the warmest welcome. Despite arriving in October, my first day in the city was sunny and surprisingly warm. As we approached Oxford, I could not help but stare out the window. I began to notice fewer cars, as more people walked, rode their bicycles, or took the bus. There was a mix of old stone buildings, chaotic and baroque architecture, and some newer, more modern-looking buildings. Seeing this instantly gave me Harry Potter vibes. At that moment, I fell in love with the city. It truly was love at first sight.
DOI Link
https://doi.org/10.33015/dominican.edu/2026.penguin.review.01.01.15
Included in
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