The Oxford experience is a strangely elusive thing, found somewhere between leisurely punting on the river post-matriculation and rigorous study sessions in the Bodleian Library. Students arrive with a shared aspiration for a world-class education, and often a curiosity about this institution, with all its idiosyncrasies, and a yearning to partake in the Oxford student life immortalized in countless literary works. Whatever this intangible experience may entail, it is evident that Univ’s formal dinners play a pivotal part. They offer a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the College community, in a manner distinct to what is typically available at other universities.\=

On 7 March, I arrived for one such formal dinner and was promptly separated from the friends I came in with. Places at the Tom Schrecker formal were in high demand, and so seating was complex. I found myself across from an international student in mathematics, who I would likely not have met otherwise. We had a fascinating discussion about his work in probability theory; his from a mathematical perspective and mine from the vantage point of its applications to economics. That is the true gift of The Tom Schrecker Formal. Not just free (and excellent) food, but in the connections forged amidst the bustling ambiance of the crowded hall. It was in these spontaneous encounters that the true value of the event emerged – a testament to the delightful uniqueness of Univ.

The dinner began with an address from the Master, who noted Tom Schrecker’s reluctance to have the dinner named after him, stating “It isn’t about him.” I would have to disagree. The Master traced a ‘chain of goodness’ in her brief biography of Mr. Schrecker, highlighting how his life was saved turn after turn by individuals who chose to act with kindness, all the way from his parents to the guardian who provided refuge in the UK. Embedded within this narrative lies a profound lesson about the transformative impact of individual actions. The education we pursue here extends far beyond the confines of lecture halls and tutorials. Our interactions, choices, and gestures have the potential to ripple outward, effecting meaningful change in the world around us. As Mr. Schrecker aptly noted, it is imperative that we foster an environment of friendliness, engage in meaningful conversations, and actively work to break down barriers from the outset of our university journey.

Beyond the generosity of hosting such a splendid dinner, Tom Schrecker’s contributions extend further with the establishment of the Schrecker-Barbour Tutorial Fellowship. This serves as a testament to his enduring commitment to the educational mission of the College.

Tiwaloluwa Ogunleye (2023, PPE)

The Master’s address served as a poignant reminder of the collective efforts of the College community, from individual student initiatives to official institutional endeavours. It underscored the importance of each member’s contribution to the fabric of our community, weaving together a tapestry of goodwill and mutual support that defines the Univ experience. The dinner embodies the essence of community – not merely as an abstract ideal of harmony, but as a dynamic force for positive change. Tom Schrecker exemplifies this value, making the naming of the dinner fitting and appropriate.

The dinner concluded with a speech from Ardeel Hussain, the JCR (Junior Common Room) President, who expressed gratitude to Mr. Schrecker for his generosity over the past ten years of the dinner and for the upcoming Meal Assistance Fund. He also extended appreciation to all those involved in making the dinner possible, a sentiment I wholeheartedly echo, particularly to the Kitchen and front-of-house staff, and Isabel Sebode.

Tiwaloluwa Ogunleye (2023, PPE)