Dyan Ruffen-Madrey
Student spotlight details
After completing a short course with us, and following her tutor's recommendation, Dyan decided to apply for the Certificate of Higher Education so she could further explore her interest in archaeology. She plans to continue her studies with the Department by attending summer schools, allowing her to deepen the friendships and connections made with both classmates and tutors.
'I am an Organizational Development Consultant based in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, currently working at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). I hold a Master’s Degree from Lesley University and a Bachelor of Science from Lincoln University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).
'When I began my studies with the Department, I was both excited and nervous. It had been a while since I was a student, and the thought of writing essays was particularly daunting. However, my early online courses were so engaging that my apprehension quickly faded, and I was able to fully immerse myself in the experience.
'My decision to pursue the Certificate of Higher Education in Archaeology was influenced by two key factors: my tutor, Faye Stevens, who recommended the programme during my second archaeology short course at the Department, and my longstanding fascination with archaeology. This interest was first sparked by a childhood visit to the Tutankhamun exhibit. The prospect of seeing the boy king, who bore a resemblance to me, filled me with excitement and fueled my desire to explore the mysteries of ancient civilizations. Although my exploration had previously been confined to classroom readings, a few museum visits, and documentaries, studying archaeology at Oxford – with all its resources – felt like a dream come true.
'The most challenging aspect of the Certificate programme for me was writing academic essays. I’ve never been particularly fond of writing, and this task initially felt quite overwhelming. However, a preparatory writing class significantly alleviated this challenge, and although writing is still not my favourite activity, I now feel much more confident and capable.
'Oxford’s programme is rigorous and demands a lot of work – there are readings, mini-assignments, presentations, videos, and regular interactions with fellow students. Despite the workload, I thoroughly enjoyed the coursework and appreciated the opportunity to take online courses outside my main field of study, such as The Culture of the English Country House, Shakespeare, and Psychology: An Introduction. These courses broadened my knowledge and satisfied my diverse curiosities. The friendships I’ve formed with classmates over the years are particularly meaningful to me. We make an effort to coordinate our Oxford University Summer School for Adults weeks to catch up, and stay connected through email as well.
'Although I am unable to pursue the next undergraduate level of study at Oxford due to residency requirements, I have started volunteering for fieldwork programmes in the U.S. to gain hands-on experience. I also plan to continue attending summer schools courses annually, as I greatly value the friendships and connections with classmates and tutors that I’ve developed.
'To anyone considering taking a course or applying for a certificate programme at the Department, I would say, "What are you waiting for?" It is truly an experience of a lifetime.'
