Former Australian Prime Minister visits Oriel

Abbott, an Honorary Fellow of The Queen’s College and a former Rhodes Scholar, was invited to the Oriel Middle Common Room to meet with Ramsay scholars from across the University. The Ramsay scholarships supports young Australians to undertake graduate study at the world’s best universities and colleges for two years. During his visit, Abbott spoke with students about his experiences as a Rhodes Scholar and his time at Oxford, reflecting on how it shaped his career and perspective. He also shared insights into his close relationship with Paul Ramsay and the broader vision behind the Ramsay Scholarship.

Discussing the impact of the scholarship, Abbott expressed his admiration for the current scholars, stating, “Really impressive people, and it’s wonderful to think that Paul’s bequest is adding so much to their lives and, hopefully through them, continuing to add so much to Australia.”

Following his talk, he engaged in a wide-ranging discussion with students, addressing topics such as how his Oxford experience shaped his career, the importance of changing one’s mind and the role of protest in public discourse. On the subject of changing one’s mind, he remarked, “We should be prepared to change our mind, but we shouldn’t do so for personal convenience or the benefit of conforming.”

The event provided an opportunity for students to hear first-hand about Abbott’s academic and professional journey while exchanging ideas on broader philosophical and political issues.