Chelsea begins studies at Oxford

Chelsea and her parents after her high school graduation

OXFORD, England -- Chelsea Clinton has begun Freshers' Week at Oxford University a day after being dropped off by her father, the former U.S. president.

Chelsea embarked on her first full day at University College where she will spend two years studying for a Masters degree in international relations.

A spokesman for the 21-year-old Stanford University history graduate said she was looking forward to enjoying "everything" of college life.

She spent Monday meeting fellow students and tutors before beginning her studies next week.

Her father, who had attended the same college as a Rhodes Scholar between 1968 and 1970, helped her move into her new home over the weekend.

A spokesman for the Clintons said: "Miss Clinton had indicated that she hopes to lead a normal student life, both in terms of her studies and her social life."

The former president has said in the past that his student days in Oxford, where he studied government, were some of the happiest he had ever spent. He famously said he had smoked marijuana "without inhaling."

The Master of University College, Lord Butler of Brockwell, said: "I am delighted that Chelsea Clinton is studying at University College.

"Her record at Stanford shows that she is a very well-qualified and able student. The college is also pleased to extend its link with the Clinton family."

Observers said Chelsea looked relaxed and happy as she smiled for photographers during an official photocall at University College before continuing with her tour of the buildings.

Her father was "continuing with his travels" on Monday, after spending Sunday pointing out his former room and reminiscing about his time in Oxford with staff and university officials.

She had applied for her course in January last year and her application was considered in the normal way, based on evidence of her academic achievements, a personal statement and academic references, a spokesman for the university said.

Chelsea had not applied through the Rhodes Scholarship.

There was speculation last year that the former president would settle in the UK.

Responding to claims, earlier this year, that Clinton may return to the university to teach and was interested in moving to Glympton, near Oxford, the university said that it was looking forward to "the opportunity to build on our existing relationship with President Clinton."

He returned to the city in 1994 to receive an honorary degree from Lord Jenkins of Hillhead, chancellor of the university.

Rhodes Scholarships were established in 1902 by British financier Cecil Rhodes who hoped that by bringing students from different countries to study at Oxford they might promote international unity, particularly among English-speaking nations.