India-Rose Burton-Aden

Please tell us about your internship at MFO.
My Masters dissertation is questioning the articulation between cultural outreach and scientific projects in a foreign research centre, thanks to an ongoing analysis of the activities of the Maison Française d’Oxford during my internship. 

Could you please tell us a bit more about your internship/exchange programme?
I’ve been given the great opportunity of coming to Oxford for a 3-month internship that acts as my final internship for validating my MA in cultural outreach. The Ecole du Louvre is committed to encouraging its students to study or intern abroad if the opportunity arises, and they are fully committed to putting grants in place for supporting these chances. 

First impressions of Oxford/the University?
I don’t think one knows what to expect before arriving in Oxford, but it doesn’t disappoint, especially in Spring. It definitely feels like you are in the heart of the academic world, but what surprised me the most is how green Oxford is. Nature isn’t secondary to the beautiful colleges and the business of the town. Instead, it is on an equal footing, and allows for a healthy balance between the cultural dynamism of the city and a quality of life on a day-to-day basis. 
Nevertheless, the feeling of surrealism is never far away. The idea of peeking through the looking glass has never been quite so meaningful, and I feel privileged to get a taste of the Oxonian student life, both benefiting and getting involved in the overflowing scientific and cultural activities. The perks of being an intern during Trinity term! 
I am particularly grateful for the warm welcome I’ve received at the Maison Française, who has provided me with such a high-quality and beautiful work environment in which anyone would thrive.