A Day in the Life of an Oxford Royale Student in New York

New York City is a place like no other—bold, fast-paced, and brimming with culture, history, and unforgettable sights. Whether walking through Central Park, gazing up at the skyline, or exploring world-famous landmarks, every day feels like a movie.

With cultural discovery in the morning and exciting afternoon sessions on campus, this day captures the energy, ambition, and excitement of summer in the Big Apple.

Rise and Shine – 8:00 AM

The city may never sleep, but you wake up refreshed in your student residence at Barnard College, Columbia University. After a hearty breakfast in the dining hall—bagels, fruit, pancakes, and your choice of eggs or oatmeal—you and your friends discuss the day ahead. Cameras are charged, comfy shoes are on, and there’s a buzz in the air. You’re heading up high for a view you won’t forget.

Guided Cultural Exploration – 9:00 AM

Today’s excursion takes you to one of New York’s most iconic experiences: the city skyline. Led by your Counsellors, you head downtown for a rooftop experience with panoramic views of Manhattan’s incredible architecture. As you look out across the skyline, your Counsellors point out famous landmarks—Chrysler Building, Empire State, One World Trade Center—and share stories of how this city came to be a global powerhouse.

It’s the perfect backdrop for selfies, reflection, and a new appreciation of just how much New York has to offer. Later this week, you’ll explore the Metropolitan Museum of Art, standing under dinosaur skeletons at the American Museum of Natural History, and walking the corridors of the United Nations Headquarters. But for now, it’s all about taking in the view—and dreaming big.

Lunch Break – 1:00 PM

After a morning in the city, lunch hits the spot. You grab something tasty from the dining hall or join your friends on a quick walk to a local deli for a New York classic—maybe a pastrami sandwich or a fresh slice of pizza. You sit together under the trees on campus or indoors with air-con, swapping stories, laughing, and talking about the upcoming afternoon sessions.

Afternoon Session 1 – 2:00 PM

After lunch, the campus buzzes with energy as the first session kicks off. Whether you’re diving into a creative challenge or taking part in a collaborative workshop, this is a relaxed, engaging way to explore real-world topics beyond the classroom.

Some students might be building a basic prototype in an engineering challenge, while others take on an economic policy simulation, debating how to respond to a global financial crisis. In psychology, students could explore cognitive bias through hands-on experiments, while Global Leaders participants analyse major UN case studies and practice strategic negotiation.

Break – 3:00 PM

It’s time to cool down with a cold drink and a snack. Some students head to the quad with iced coffees, while others settle on campus benches for a quick sketch of the skyline or a chat about the best parts of the morning. It’s a great moment to pause and soak up the summer atmosphere before heading into the afternoon.

Afternoon Session 2 – 3:30 PM

After a short break, the second session opens up new opportunities to go deeper. You might be pitching an innovation to tackle climate change, testing behavioural theories through interactive tasks, or collaborating on a city-wide leadership scenario based on real events in New York.

It’s a chance to push your thinking, work in teams, and apply what you’ve learned in creative, practical ways—guided by expert tutors and supported by your counsellors. Whether you’re solving, presenting, leading, or experimenting, this is what active learning in the city that never sleeps looks like!

Dinner on Campus – 6:00 PM

Evening rolls in, and the dining hall fills with the sounds of laughter and clinking cutlery. You grab a hot meal—maybe stir fry, burgers, or veggie tacos—and sit down with your friends to relive the best moments of the day. Someone’s still talking about the skyline selfie they took; someone else is already discussing tomorrow’s visit to the Met.

The sense of community here is real—diverse, welcoming, and filled with students who are just as curious and ambitious as you.

Evening Activities – 8:00 PM

As the sun sets over the city, the evening comes alive with a mix of fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Tonight, the spotlight’s on with the always-popular Talent Show—whether you’re singing, dancing, performing magic, or sharing a hidden talent, it’s your time to shine.

Elsewhere on campus, students gather for karaoke night, where the playlist ranges from pop hits to Broadway classics. Laughter fills the air as friends cheer each other on, and even the shyest students join in by the end of the night.

For those who prefer something more relaxed, there’s an evening walking tour through the local neighbourhoods—perfect for taking in the city lights, learning a few hidden stories, and snapping some great photos along the way.

Whether you’re performing, singing, strolling, or simply chatting with friends under the stars, there’s something for everyone!

Lights Out – 10:30 PM

As the lights dim and the city outside winds down (a little), you return to your room feeling content. It’s been a day of exploration, creativity, and connection—a reminder of why you came here in the first place. You fall asleep to the soft hum of New York in the distance, excited for what tomorrow will bring.

One thing’s for sure: your summer in New York is going to be unforgettable.

Learn more about our New York Summer School!

Ready to discover one of the world’s most dynamic cities? Join our Oxford Royale Summer School in New York and experience a programme that’s as exciting outside the classroom as it is inside.