Kindly request....

I have received official notice of my exams! The letter writes: "The candidate is requested to attend the location as indicated." Haha Like it's an option! We've also received an email about "Post-Exam Celebrations": "The purpose of this note is to ask for your help in preventing post- exam celebrations from getting out of hand. We realise that the exams are an intense and high-pressure experience and we're sure that you'll want to celebrate and let off steam when they end. But
we ask that you do so responsibly and with consideration for others.In particular, you should be aware that activities such as food- throwing and fizzy drink-spraying are not harmless fun." (Fizzy-drink spraying is my fav part!) Apparently, students wait for their friends outside Exams School and then throw tuna, champagne, eggs, etc. Of course only undergrads resort to these shenanigans, as we graduate students are far too mature :) But I am glad the university recognizes these are "intense and high-pressure" times. Didn't need that to be put in a memo.

Today I helped Haddenham Rotary Club (where I gave my very first talk) run a horse trial at a massive estate, Waddesdon. Basically, people pay to be able to ride 14 miles around the beautiful countryside, starting at staggered times throughout the day. Caterina, a fellow scholar, and I were assigned to keep sheep from coming out an open gate on the course - not too strenuous since we didn't see a sheep the whole time! The weather started out truly horribly, with rain and wind, but then the day improved significantly, plus a fellow volunteer allowed us to sit in his car. Actually, it was very strange - sitting in an SUV in the middle of a field, watching on one side for sheep, and on the other for horses. But a very English fundraiser, I think! And a nice time to chat with Caterina.

Currently, I am editing my dissertation, which I'll turn in on June 5th. Then.....June 6th is St Antony's Ball!! I can't wait! We are having live bands, chocolate fountains, and breakfast at 6am - haha! This is the ultimate Oxford event!

Other good news: A girl in my house has started giving massages at super low rates as a fundraiser for the organization she worked with on her field research in the Philippines. I already have an appointment for Tuesday night!

Finally: I received letters from Mom and both grandmothers today, so it was an exciting time in the lodge! Thanks family. Love you!