Surprised by Oxford

Young Caro learns that her father has led a double life and is arrested, upending her world. Her mother must work to raise Caro alone, setting the stage for a fiercely independent, skeptical outlook. The upheaval forces Caro to reassess trust, family, and stability as she grows up.

The early shock of family crisis shapes Caro's determination to rely on intellect over belief. She begins prioritizing academic success and questions religious assumptions. This marks her stance for much of her early life.

Caro earns an undergraduate scholarship and is later awarded a scholarship to Oxford for her PhD. She leaves her previous environment and begins a new academic chapter in Oxford. The prospect of rigorous study marks a shift toward intellectual pursuit over prior concerns.

In Oxford, Caro meets Kent Webber, a fellow student who is openly committed to his faith. His openness stands out to Caro, who remains skeptical yet intrigued. This initial encounter plants the seed of a complex relationship.

They share conversations about faith, literature, and life, during which Caro's skepticism is tested. Kent's openness and kindness begin to soften her defenses. The discussions push Caro to reexamine what she values.

As their bond grows, Caro becomes increasingly drawn to Kent's open-hearted approach. Despite their differing views, they develop a strong friendship that hints at more. Caro finds herself rethinking what matters most.

Warnings about falling grades threaten Caro's scholarship. She decides to shut out social life and concentrate solely on her studies. The isolation strains her emotionally as she distances herself from Kent.

Caro watches Kent dating another student, deepening her loneliness. The emotional turmoil tests her resolve to prioritize academics over relationships. She begins to confront what she truly wants from life.

In the library, Caro uses an inkpen despite rules. A librarian admonishes her, she breaks the pen, and ink spills on a library book. The incident leads to a ban from the library.

Provost Regina Knight invites Caro to spend a weekend as her guest and shares her own experiences. She encourages Caro to reconsider priorities and to rekindle her friendship with Kent. The encounter provides a turning point toward spiritual reconsideration.

Back in Oxford, Caro and Kent's feelings rekindle, but he reveals he must leave for Washington, DC that same evening. Caro chases his taxi in the rain, but it does not stop. She returns home soaked, facing an uncertain future.

Two years pass. Caro completes her studies and becomes a teacher at Oxford. She receives a note, goes outside, and spots Kent in a crowd; they embrace. The ending notes reveal they married and that Caro continued to have a successful career.