Memories of student life in the 1970s and of meeting Prince Philip at New College's 150th anniversary celebrations in 1996. Image Lee McDonald aged 28 Our first impression came as we departed the Waverly Station in a taxi and the driver was so kind to us. When he heard that we just came from California, he asked if we would like to see some of Edinburgh that had only seen in pictures. He did not charge us for his tour [times have changed!] and wished us well after he took us to our bed and breakfast place. We found that kind of welcome with several folks in Edinburgh, some of whom invited us with our two children to their homes — even for a meal. That was not like California and we were blessed. We also found good friends in several churches that we attended while in Edinburgh. Student life I have many wonderful memories of how well the College staff, professors, and fellow students warmly and helpfully welcomed us and treated us during our stay. We came from Southern California (warmer weather and cheaper utilities) and quickly learned how to live with sweaters. I have only fond memories of being in faculty homes and how helpful they were and encouraging to me as I began my doctoral studies. Getting used to the library at New College where it was almost always cold was initially a challenge, but I bought some cheap gloves and cut off the finger-tips so I could turn pages and take notes. The library staff was always most helpful to me. Image Lee in 2019 Hugh Anderson (my 'doctor father') encouraged me in my studies and was always kind to me and very affirming. In a class Hugh told a funny story and I saw students responding differently from what I was used to. Some stomped their feet with smiles, some knocked their knuckles on the desks, and some clapped. It was a funny moment. He wrote very nice recommendations to institutions after I graduated and was looking for a position and I had several opportunities to teach. I stayed in contact with him in subsequent years and I was a guest in his home during the 150th anniversary celebration. He would not let me take him and a taxi to his house, but said that we must take a bus which was cheaper (a true Scot indeed!). He walked me to the bus stop after our meal and visit and waited with me until the bus arrived. I have mentioned him with appreciation in several of my books. Other professors who were also most kind included James Torrance, Robin Barbour, Ian Moir, and Douglas and Elizabeth (earlier Liz McClaren) Templeton (both good friends and I was invited to accompany them several of their early dates). We remained friends until their passing, but also with several fellow students, some of which became colleagues. I only have good memories of my years in Edinburgh and we continue to have contacts with friends we met there in the early 1970s. Read more in Lee's alumnus profile. Memories of New College's 150th anniversary On that occasion, I was blessed to reconnect with many friends from my earlier years as a student, especially with Hugh Anderson in meetings and at his home. During a lecture by Timothy Lim on the Dead Sea Scrolls, I was surprised to find that I was sitting behind Prince Philip and after the lecture was privileged to meet him in the reception and visit for a few minutes. I was the first in line to greet him! That was very special to me. He was most gracious to me and even asked specific questions about my studies in Edinburgh. Image Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh I was also surprised to see a couple of my books on display at that time. Again, I was invited to the home of Douglas and Liz Templeton as well as the home of Hugh Anderson. I also met up with another graduate (at that time) who has become a good friend, Peter Balla, and we have enjoyed several meals over the years and he invited me to give lectures at his school in Budapest. This article was published on 2024-03-19
