Chaplain
Welcom Letter from the Chaplain
Introductory stuff
In the days when welcome letters were on real paper rather than in an electronic form, I wouldn't have labelled an introductory letter so explicitly - it would no-doubt have been promptly filed in the bin, but now, thanks to the Intranet facility, I can rest assured that even if no-one ponders my subtle style and dry wit, at least there won't be an appalling carbon footprint to answer for, and it'll be there, looming in the e-world for ever. Some of my colleagues in other colleges write personal letters to each new student mentioning things in their Applications - I'm in awe of them, but I don't do that. Suffice it to say, however, that if you have any extraordinary interests or gifts, and you feel it appropriate to share them, please tell us about them! Some chaplains meet every fresher for a three-minute appointment in Freshers' Week. Whilst that can, no-doubt, break the ice, it's also a bit forced I think, so I don't do that either. But if you would like to come and see me, for a chat, for a coffee, or just to say hello, or if there are any questions about life in College, the Chapel or issues you want to explore, please don't hesitate to get in touch. And you can have longer than 3 minutes.
Congratulations and Welcome to the Friendliest Oxford College
Yes, first of all, congratulations - we are delighted you are here! I know that you will have been exhausted and anxious about A-level results - and now, well, you did it. So (at least for the first week) relax and enjoy finding out about the College, University and others in your year and college. Friendships forged in undergraduate years can and do last a lifetime - so invest well and wisely. I really hope that you will flourish in the years ahead, and settle into the community. The College is unashamedly focused on academic excellence - but it's also a place where we trust each other, get to know each other very well, enjoying diversity and benefitting from what each brings. I really love Pembroke, I think it's probably the happiest job I've ever had, but when there are times when people feel far from happy. Then, there is a network of support at hand (more of which below).
Work and Welfare
Some of you will also have to meet tutors and be set work, just to set the pace. Oxford is not like many other Universities in terms of assessment and teaching and learning, it's 8 (or more) very full weeks three times a year. Lectures may be what you expect, but at
weekly tutorials you will be expected to do lots of reading of texts and come to your own measured and justified conclusions having produced a careful analytical essay. This means a lot of hard work, even if you've managed thus far to get by thinking on a sixpence, (through superfluity of intellect), you will have to read and think and write a great deal. This can mean a lot of pressure - but there is a network of support and welfare services of which I am but a part. There are JCR welfare reps, mentors, Junior Deans, your tutors, and people find the Academic Office a place of welcome and understanding. In particular, I recommend our College nurse, Glynis Perry, in the very strongest terms - she's very wise, approachable, and fun. Glynis and I have a remit of assumed confidentiality. We try to support people across the board, but neither she nor I will disclose anything confidential without your permission. My room is in Staircase 10 (in Chapel Quad, near Hall), and Glynis' is in Old Quad more or less opposite the Lodge, next to the Academic Office.
Chapel, Choir and Ultimate Matters
The square, sober looking building in Chapel Quad is the Chapel, ornate with chubbly cherubs and ornate detail on the inside. It is a place for everyone - for whatever you need it... within reason. It's a place where people come for a moment of quiet, or to practice bagpipes (the two are not entirely compatible I know, but both are true). It has a grand piano, and a fine Letourneau organ. There's a lively choir which tours and leaves Pembroke's mark in many European cities - so if you can sing, or play the organ or piano, please contact Sam Baker who is the Senior Organ Scholar. The chapel inherits many generations' interest and commitment, where ancient wisdoms can bring tolerance and challenge us. That's not to say that the Chapel doesn't ask hard questions of religion - and speakers on Sunday night include members of many faiths and none, the Chapel has been the context for rigorous debate about the nature of religion (a battle between Professor Atkins and Professor Swinburne), and more things are planned. So if you'd like to be a part of new developments, come and see me - I'd be delighted to explore your ideas and get to know you.
With my best wishes as you settle in
Andrew