Hot Dogs, Baseball and Optical Illusions

Rhys Mackenzie
5 min read
March 30, 2026
Group of friends taking a picture together
TABLE OF CONTENT

A member of the pastoral staff gives an insight into a typical day at Stanford:

"Another sunny day at Stanford was mostly spent in and out of classes today, with Design Thinking this morning and Optical Phenomena this afternoon. Both workshops were practical and challenging, offering new perspectives on business and science.

The Design Thinking came is really useful as it helped to put the GSP work into context, with the tutor Bill pushing students to justify their reasons and debate and to discuss the relationships between elements of each island (project) which help to create a sustainable environment and viable economy. In Gennfier’s class, the students took part in real life experiments to do with light — which was seriously impressive — they have lots of facts and demonstrations to take home!

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This evening we went to AT&T Park to watch the San Francisco Giants play the Milwaukee Brewers. Many of the group had never been to a baseball game before so it was a perfect way to take in the sights and sounds of the great American sport. Hot dogs were bought before we’d even got to the stadium, and the group left at the end of the evening adorned with a lot more orange hats than we’d left Stanford with. It was a sleepy bus journey back to campus for most, although still a few singing along to Katy Perry at the back of the bus — but I’d say today has been one of our best days yet and I’m sure the students would agree."

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About the author

Rhys Mackenzie
Website Marketing Manager

Rhys Mackenzie is responsible for creating and maintaining educational content at Oxford Summer Courses, helping students and families access clear, accurate information about studying in Oxford. With several years of experience in digital content and student-focused resources, Rhys specialises in presenting academic programmes in a way that reflects the quality and integrity of the Oxford learning experience. Learn more about Rhys here.

Summary

Students at Stanford had practical workshops in Design Thinking and Optical Phenomena, gaining new perspectives on business and science. They enjoyed a baseball game in the evening, making it a memorable day.

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Four teenage girls smiling and chatting outdoors with greenery and orange flowers in the background.