If anyone is interested, here's a few things about the colleges I've learnt from my first year in Durham: 1. The vast majority of people fall in love with their college, even if it's not the one they originally picked. I was reallocated but now I honestly can't imagine being at a different college 2. Durham is a small city and most sites are within easy walking distance of all colleges 3. Most colleges allow guests to participate in their formals and events, so you may be able to experience a gowned formal at a friend's college, or vice versa 4. You will be able to make friends with people from other colleges. Most people will be lovely, but don't feel like you can only get to know the people on your corridor 5. You tend to get out of the colleges what you put in. If you spend a lot of time in the college bar or with college mates, you'll feel part of the community very quickly. On the other hand, some choose to spend more time with course or society mates, and they're equally happy Hope that's helpful!
I’m interested in applying for the Castle collage (or university collage), however, I’m neither rich nor posh🤣what’s your take on this as I don’t want to go and be ‘looked down up’ if you know what I mean.
I'm so glad there is finally a good college guide video! THANK YOU - when I was choosing my college, this is exactly what I would have needed! You'll be helping A LOT of people with this video :)
i am hoping to apply to go this year and just looking at these colleges and reading about them im 100% aiming for collingwood or aidans they are the colleges i feel i would be most at home in and i really love the thought of catered so its one less stress i have ontop of the studies i want to do it will give me more of a chance to do societies and sports clubs and study
@@holby4lifefanaccount311 it tends to be where a lot of people are reallocated to. The accommodation isn’t very nice, I won’t lie to you, but it has an amazing music department, lovely gym and great atmosphere. Catering is pretty good and their societies tend to bang
my school has close relations with van mildert college, it’s a great laugh and has a great community vibe with everyone being like one family, just watch out for the swans
I originally wanted to apply to South College due to how modern it is and the new hub building, however, after speaking to someone who goes to Durham she said that the best colleges in her opinion are university college, st johns, chads and Mary’s. I am really stuck as to which one to go for. What colleges would you recommend (one with good performing arts facilities, a high chance of getting a big bedroom with an en-suite and ideally catered)? :)
I think most performing arts are part of the university. But I think Collingwood and Trevs are decent for performing arts. I’m not entirely sure as I don’t know many people who do it
Hoping I get into St Marys! Watching this now even though I already firmed my preferences a while back haha. I'd totally be ready to take on the St Marys running challenge😂
Thank you for this video! I was unsure on what college to pick but this has made it easier for me. I got an offer for Theology and Religion back in January.
I put my top choice as st chad’s but got Hatfield instead and im currently in a bit of a spiral. I’ve seen many mixed reviews on the college and I just really want to switch...
Hey, the same thing happened to me! I’ve been trying to do some research and so far I’ve not seen anything positive about hatfields- I don’t want to judge it too much, having never visited, but it’s definitely stressing me out a bit...
Great video! Thank you so much! I have one question regarding the allocation process: I entered “O” at UCAS. I get accepted, will I have the chance to still express my preference or will I get allocated to a random college? And what are the best colleges with en-suite bathrooms? Do you have this at Cuths? If yes, I’m definitely gonna apply at Cuths Let’s see… fingers crossed
Hello! I live in the US but I am seriously considering applying to this college. Were there any/many international students at Durham? Just curious. Thanks for an amazing video!
Hey!! I think that there are actually quite a lot of international students at Durham. Last year on my archaeology course I did my practical sessions with two guys from the US!!
@@thatonecharlie Thanks so much! This university is like a dream for me but I was unsure how open the community is to international students. It's good to know that there are a few others out there like me :)
Lots and lots of Chinese students get in my bar .I would think they are doing language courses. They get on well with the locals and I would guess enjoy their time in Durham .
Do all of the colleges cost the same? Ignoring the fact that catered are going to be more than self catered, which rooms/colleges are more expensive (or are they the same)?
im thinking of applying to durham and if i get in i will be moving from sweden to england which i find to be a massive step so im quite nervous hahahah i was wondering what college is the best if your taking a psychology, philosophy or music course. Im interested in castle but ive heard its quite hard to get into, do they choose randomly or is it grade based?
Ah that would be such a cool move to do from Sweden!! Colleges aren't really tailored towards specific courses, so it would be hard to suggest a college based on a course because you're all taught together, regardless of your college. Castle is definitely a difficult college to get into but many people still get in. The system for getting into a specific college is purely random (to my knowledge).
Law students are evenly dispersed among all colleges, like with every other subject. So by that logic most law students would be in the larger colleges, e.g. Collingwood.
how far is st johns to the science department I'm applying for geophysics and having difficulty choosing between st marys st johns and st Cuthberts also greys too
Looking at the map, I’d say Mary’s is probably the closest, but from my experience of being at Durham in the late 1970s, I can say that both John’s and Cuthbert’s are within reasonable walking distance-unless you’re a late riser or otherwise incapacitated! They’re both close to Prebends Bridge at the end of North Bailey, from which you can reach Quarryheads Lane by a footpath at the other end.
@@isaacdavid1958 I wouldn't mind doing a 15-20 minute walk from the baileys to get to science department everyday like for school I usually I have to walk 25 minutes so anything at that distance is fine
@@rachellexx8703 I feel sure you could do it in that time, but it might be worth making a phone call to John’s (as the furthest away) or the department to be sure. I wouldn’t want you to choose John’s and then find it actually took more than 25 minutes. I was at Hatfield myself and made regular journeys to visit friends at Mary’s and Trev’s using that route, but I can’t say I timed it. However, if the timing is fine, I can certainly recommend John’s, or any “peninsula” college for that matter, for the way in which living there feels a bit like living in a village. And John’s does have a good atmosphere about it. Good luck with your choice in any case, and enjoy the time you spend there-it’s a great university.
Hi, I’m thinking of applying to Durham this year (start 2021). Is it harder to get into a college such as St Chads/St John as they are smaller? I would much prefer a smaller college as I’m not the most outgoing! And would also love to be in the Bailey.
I know people who applied to Chads and didn't get in. I think they are both quite highly in demand. I've found a link to some statistics that you might find useful: www.dur.ac.uk/resources/colleges.se.office/UGPreferencesforColleges-2019Entry.pdf Then again, you could easily still get allocated to Chads/Johns if you put them as your preference. Then again, any college that you get I'm sure you'd end up loving, even if its not your first choice.
Chad's is very popular but it's still worth applying - we have the cheapest bar and everyone is so fun, ppl think just cos we're small we're not as good as other bailey colleges but I think we are ahahah
I can't lie, diversity in Durham is dreadful. Yes, statistics might suggest that Durham is diverse, this is primarily because of the large intake of international students (although, this will likely be reduced this year because of the coronavirus). But there is a distinct lack of POC and ethnic minorities in Durham. I really hope this will change soon (although, I don't think the university is doing enough to support and encourage diversity). If you want to know anymore just let me know :)
hey, POC at durham here! lack of diversity is a big issue at the uni and i personally did have some bad racialised experiences in my first year, HOWEVER, there are spaces (societies, welfare, group chats etc) for POC to exist comfortably and cultivate a sense of community here!! definitely don’t be discouraged from applying bc the issue won’t get any better without ppl like you coming in, and if you do choose to come, you’ll almost definitely find a support system w likeminded ppl who have similar lived experiences! hope that helps! xx
JOHN DOE i did find it quite difficult at first but everyone finds their people eventually, even if it takes until second term, third term or even second year for it to happen! honestly durham has so many societies that make it super easy to find ppl to relate to so i wouldn’t worry too much abt making friends xx
I am about to list my preferences. I’ve got a conditional offer for next fall but I still can’t decide which college. I was thinking about St Johns. Do you have any other opinions about that college?
St Johns is a great college, it is in a prime location on the bailey, it also has free laundry and formals i'm pretty sure, so I think its a great option :)
One thing to consider is that it's quite small so a different atmosphere to larger colleges and it has quite a religious reputation (but I don't know if that holds true)... The bar is a bit shit though
What's the deal with having two accomodation sites for Cuths? Can you choose? I'd like to have the option of being self catered sometimes but I prefer the Bailey site..
There are four options: bailey single, bailey shared, parsons ensuite, and regular parsons. On a form you number them one to four and the college president allocates everyone based on that. The bailey is usually oversubscribed though so if you don't put it first you are unlikely to get it. Also this was the system when I started two years ago so it might have changed.
That's actually a difficult question. Maybe Chads, Castle (if i could be in the castle) or Collingwood. ahaha just any college that starts with a 'C'. Chads because it has such a lovely bar, and i love the location on the bailey. Castle because, you can live in a castle!! and Collingwood because it's the best hill college in my opinion - close enough to the science site, great bar and lots of facilities!! But pretty much everyone loves the college that they end up at :)
I personally know Americans at the uni, they study archaeology with me!! I don't know the acceptance rate, but its always worth a shot. Also i'm pretty sure that the cost of applying is way less than most top American universities
Just bring a drink you feel comfortable drinking. I personally brought two large packs of cider and a large bottle of vodka. But I certainly did not drink it all in freshers week. You can always get more if you want it :)
Me after seeing the picturesque of Hilde and Bede: Aight, that's where I'm applying for this October Charlie: But their formals aren't gowned Me: aH daMNIT
Are the stereotypes of colleges actually that relevant in practice? I’m applying to Durham this year and want to apply to Castle as I’ve dreamed of going there since I was like 13 lol. Even though it’s so unlikely that I’ll get into Durham and even less likely to get allocated Castle, would I be less likely to fit in since I’m from a state school and not at all posh (actually left a private school as I didn’t fit the stereotypes there)?
I think that whilst every college has a stereotype, but there are always going to be people in the exact same situation as you. I think a lot of people apply to castle because it is one of the grandest looking colleges. So I wouldn't be put off by that. You'll always find your crowd, whichever college you apply to :)
Hello, I’m not from the uk so I’m not very familiar with the “college” term. Can you please explain what you mean by college? Is it where you take your classes or the accommodations? I really like Durham and wanna apply there when I’m older! I’m just confused on what everyone means by college. Thanks!
In Durham a college starts in first year as your accomodation. However, unlike most UK uni's a college also acts as your community where you partake in sports and societies. Colleges also hold events like formals, balls and even a fashion show. Colleges also have a bar and a social space. Each college has a JCR (Junior Common Room) which basically controls the college (budget, events, sports, societies, welfare, freshers week - basically your whole time at university). Hope that makes sense?
I personally haven't been catered, but I think they will normally have catering for certain dietary requirements. But if you want to ensure you always have a good meal, I think self-catered might be a better option
Yeah, if you apply to Cuths and are accepted at Cuths they'll send you an application form for your accomodation preferences, so you can chose Parsons Field. Most people in Cuths will end up there anyway, so if you put it, there is like a 95% chance you'll get it
@@thatonecharlie hi okay thanks so much! That’s good to know as I want self catering - I’m looking forward to coming to Durham this year!! As long as I get the grades lol
They're both in a prime location. I think Mary's gets more applications per year. But if you have any questions that might help you decide let me know :)
Hello, I am looking to attend either Durham or Newcastle Uni in Sept 2021 but I will be living at home as a mature student, do you only sign up for a college at Durham if you are going to be living there? UCAS application for Durham has thrown me off, asking which college I want to be in, along side my course.
Hi, even if you're living at home as a mature student you still sign up to a college as they act as your community (e.g. for sports, socs, events like formals etc) even if you're living out :)
I think you'd probably have most of your lectures on the science site or the business school in that case. If so I'd suggest pretty much any hill college. Then again most places in Durham are really close together :)
Heyy, did you end up going to Durham? I got an offer for finance bsc as well and collingwood college which was my first choice:) Would love to hear someone's experience of the course.
Do they reallocate you in a college which is similar to one you put down? Like if you put down one on the Bailey will you most likely get another on the Bailey?
I don’t really know the process but to my knowledge I think you just get reallocated any college. Then again most people love the college they get regardless :)
I think they're both great colleges with little to differentiate them. I think I would personally chose Chads, although I think Chads normally gets more applications and so might have a lower acceptance rate (which means you might be put in a different college).
Hoping someone can help me with this - is Durham a wheelchair-friendly city? In recent months my health has deteriorated badly and my GP has said I may need to use a wheelchair "most days" once I start my Masters. some of these pavements looked quite cobbled and it looks quite hilly, can anyone confirm/deny?
I'm not actually able to send an individual message but I would also like to know this and that why cant everyone stay at the Castle? Like which type of college is the castle for? Idk I'm confused, if someone replies to this I would appreciate it if you could reply to me.... thankyou!
I'd say it really doesn't matter at all. Durham is really small anyway. I'd also say that the majority of learning either takes place in Elvet Riverside or the Science site
Hi, I am an international student, as a Latina I am quite interested if there are any colleges that might be less inclusive? or that are lacking diversity? As well I seem to find a lot of clubs of Durham Uni yet idk which college they belong to? are there non-assigned college clubs? I will be studying Business and Castle seems lovely but let me know if it might not be the right option. Thank you!
Hola , tambien soy latina y estoy interesada en Durham al igual que tu me preocupa que no haya mucha inclusión y que como chilena no de alta clase me resulte dificil la adaptación .
@@valentinavalverde8122 Hola Valentina, te cuento que yo me encuentro ahora en la Universidad de Glasgow. La verdad cada dia me alegro de mi decision, yo casi fui a Durham y la verdad el ambiente simplemente no era para mi. Igualmente te recomiendo investigar mas y quizas contactar a estudiantas para que te den su experiencia.
how likely is it that you get a shared room? really want to apply to cuths or chads but i think a lot of the rooms are shared. are there many colleges on the bailey with no shared rooms? thanks so much for this video, was really helpful!!
Cuths has 32 shared rooms and Chads has 45 shared rooms. I know for Cuths that went you get allocated a place you can place preferences on what type of accomodation you want (e.g. bailey, parsons, catered, self-catered, shared room or not). All colleges on the bailey have some shared rooms. Hope this helps :)
Emm just wanna ask if I'm taking Archaeology, which college should I choose in terms of locations and stuff? I'm considering St.Mary, Cuth's and Grey rn
Charlie can you please tell me the courses or what ever you know about the FORENSIC SCIENCE department ( for external students as well) in Durham ?! That would be of great help. Btw you look healthy and ig you gained some ❤ :)
I don't think Durham has a forensic science department. But you can check all the courses and modules in Durham here: www.dur.ac.uk/faculty.handbook/listdeptmodules/ but thank you :)
Hey Charlie!Hope you’re well, this was so helpful! I’m applying for History & Combined honours this year. So torn which college I should apply to. I want to be near the Bailey & want traditional - gowned college? Don’t wanna apply for castle cause you don’t actually live in the castle & will most likely to be allocated elsewhere ... same with Chads. I’ll be 20 when I start, is it normal at Durham for people to be 1-2 years old in first year?
Oooh great course choice. I think if you don't want to risk going for Chads or Castle, and you want a gowned college I would probably say your only choices are hatfield and Johns. But yeah it's totally normal for people to start 1-2 years older. I was 19 when I started and I had a flatmate who was 24!! Literally everyone got on perfectly well, so I really don't thin that ages matters at University :)
when you apply to durham does the college you apply to affect your chance of getting into the university generally. like if i applied to a very popular college like castle would that lessen my chances of getting in overall??
Hi! I am trying to choose a college and I will be applying for economics which is in the business department. Do you think it would be a long walk to St.Chads every day?
I'm in chads and it's a 15-20min walk to the science site (depending how fast you walk) so not too bad for a bailey college, plus it's SO close to town so great for nights out :)
Honestly there will be so many people doing the same thing!! It's only the stereotype of the college and you're bound to find your people there so I wouldn't worry too much!! Also you can always make friends in other colleges :)
What a shame you dismissed Hild Bede, both as being an outlier and with the shortest information. It has beautiful views, great facilities, and right next to the river. Why not visit the bar and meet everyone there?
Hild Bede is a lovely college, one of my favourites. I have friends from the college too, and have been to the bar, and partaken in some of their college sports. 10/10 highly recommend
Durham is so small that it doesnt really matter. Especially as lectures could be anywhere. But most will probably be on the science site, so Grey/Mary's is probbaly the best. But I wouldnt base a decision solely on distance to the department
You choose one, but you might not get it if a lot of people want it as well. Alternatively, if you have no preference, they will allocate you themselves.
ThatOneCharlie what College do you find Most Economics/ Finance/ Business Students, Friends sister went to Hatfield , looks really nice is it worth the „hate“ lol wht are my chances if I apply there
I think they are middling at sport but can only really remember their rugby team. Also I'm pretty sure the most oversubscribed colleges are castle, Chad's and Mary's.
It's a Stockton college originally (the now abandoned Durham campus) and is in the process of moving still. Last year they were all in private accomodation in the viaduct while the college was built, but it looks like a home has been found.
It's definitely hard to get into (in comparison to other colleges) mainly because so many people apply to castle. But it doesn't mean you can't get allocated a place there :)
I heard that you get to choose the colleges when you accept the offer, like a house in Harry Potter, is that true,? And your college community will be like your family. ?
ThatOneCharlie thank you 😊 can I change the college after applying? I am a post graduate student, I have a conditional offer letter and there is nothing mentioned about college
Unfourtunately you can't change your college after you apply, but you can get reallocated. Then again I'm not sure how it works for postgrads. You may still have to decide on your college
If anyone is interested, here's a few things about the colleges I've learnt from my first year in Durham:
1. The vast majority of people fall in love with their college, even if it's not the one they originally picked. I was reallocated but now I honestly can't imagine being at a different college
2. Durham is a small city and most sites are within easy walking distance of all colleges
3. Most colleges allow guests to participate in their formals and events, so you may be able to experience a gowned formal at a friend's college, or vice versa
4. You will be able to make friends with people from other colleges. Most people will be lovely, but don't feel like you can only get to know the people on your corridor
5. You tend to get out of the colleges what you put in. If you spend a lot of time in the college bar or with college mates, you'll feel part of the community very quickly. On the other hand, some choose to spend more time with course or society mates, and they're equally happy
Hope that's helpful!
This is so true!! Thank you for this :)
@@thatonecharlie no worries :)
100% agree w all of these
I’m interested in applying for the Castle collage (or university collage), however, I’m neither rich nor posh🤣what’s your take on this as I don’t want to go and be ‘looked down up’ if you know what I mean.
@@8thHok4ge I see what you mean 😂 message me on insta I’ll tell you what I think 👌🏼
POV: you are entering in 2021 and Durham asked you for a list of your preferences
ahaha rate this
@@thatonecharlie btw I appreciated the straightforwardness cause it just made it easier -opinionated people are top tier
hahahahaha
I'm also going in 2021! Have you received your allocation yet?
@@kaismeaton7711 yes you?
I'm so glad there is finally a good college guide video! THANK YOU - when I was choosing my college, this is exactly what I would have needed! You'll be helping A LOT of people with this video :)
You're too kind!! Thank you :)) I definitely had no clue about any of the colleges when I was applying, so I hope this helps at least a few people!!
On a Durham YT binge right now, I’m coming in September for English Lit! Honestly can’t wait, love the video :-)
Ayyy that's awesome!! I may even be taking an english lit module this year :))
ThatOneCharlie absolutely go for it, the lack of social life will be worth it haha
ahaha I think Covid is more of a contraceptive of fun then english lit module atm
Is there a TESOL postgraduate program? :o
I love how this video isn't particularly positive about any colleges except St. Cuthbert's
Ahaha well I do go to cuths so I am slighted biased :) but I have nothing against any other college!!
I am a mother from Hong Kong. This video is very useful for me and my daughter to choose college preference.Thank you very much
Glad it was helpful!
I have been searching for a video like this for MONTHS thank you so so much you've just saved hours of my life 🤩
Ayyyy so glad I could help you out :))
I’m not a uni student but I’ve hopped the fence at collingwood astro more than 100 times it’s pretty class
i am hoping to apply to go this year and just looking at these colleges and reading about them im 100% aiming for collingwood or aidans they are the colleges i feel i would be most at home in and i really love the thought of catered so its one less stress i have ontop of the studies i want to do it will give me more of a chance to do societies and sports clubs and study
Starting at Butler this year, can't wait!
Ahh that's awesome. I'm sure you'll love it
the new Jack Edwards
Ahaha not quite
Holy cow don't say that
Is trevs an overly popular college people apply for ?
@@holby4lifefanaccount311 no it’s a shithole
@@holby4lifefanaccount311 it tends to be where a lot of people are reallocated to. The accommodation isn’t very nice, I won’t lie to you, but it has an amazing music department, lovely gym and great atmosphere. Catering is pretty good and their societies tend to bang
Your videos are sooo helpful, got into Durham this year and this is like a complete guide before entering the uni. Thankyou :)
Hope to see you there
Thanks for this video! Memories are rushing to my mind!! I'm an Ustinovian 2010-11 batch 😍
my school has close relations with van mildert college, it’s a great laugh and has a great community vibe with everyone being like one family, just watch out for the swans
Ah thats so cool!!
I originally wanted to apply to South College due to how modern it is and the new hub building, however, after speaking to someone who goes to Durham she said that the best colleges in her opinion are university college, st johns, chads and Mary’s. I am really stuck as to which one to go for. What colleges would you recommend (one with good performing arts facilities, a high chance of getting a big bedroom with an en-suite and ideally catered)? :)
I think most performing arts are part of the university. But I think Collingwood and Trevs are decent for performing arts. I’m not entirely sure as I don’t know many people who do it
I go to mildert! I’m in my second year now as a psych student. Won’t miss college catered food though😂
Ahaha I was self-catered so did not experience the onslaught of college potatoes!
if you get put in st cuthberts, can you choose between the catered and self catered accom or is it randomly allocated?
Hoping I get into St Marys! Watching this now even though I already firmed my preferences a while back haha. I'd totally be ready to take on the St Marys running challenge😂
Thank you for this video! I was unsure on what college to pick but this has made it easier for me. I got an offer for Theology and Religion back in January.
I used your video to put my preferences for the colleges thanks!
Ayy glad the video helped
I put my top choice as st chad’s but got Hatfield instead and im currently in a bit of a spiral. I’ve seen many mixed reviews on the college and I just really want to switch...
Hey, the same thing happened to me! I’ve been trying to do some research and so far I’ve not seen anything positive about hatfields- I don’t want to judge it too much, having never visited, but it’s definitely stressing me out a bit...
how is it going?
@@alicelawford-davies1880 how is it going?
This was legitimately so so so helpful! thank you!!
Great video! Thank you so much!
I have one question regarding the allocation process: I entered “O” at UCAS. I get accepted, will I have the chance to still express my preference or will I get allocated to a random college?
And what are the best colleges with en-suite bathrooms? Do you have this at Cuths? If yes, I’m definitely gonna apply at Cuths Let’s see… fingers crossed
If you get accepted you have to redo college preference
Hello! I live in the US but I am seriously considering applying to this college. Were there any/many international students at Durham? Just curious. Thanks for an amazing video!
Hey!! I think that there are actually quite a lot of international students at Durham. Last year on my archaeology course I did my practical sessions with two guys from the US!!
@@thatonecharlie Thanks so much! This university is like a dream for me but I was unsure how open the community is to international students. It's good to know that there are a few others out there like me :)
Lots and lots of Chinese students get in my bar .I would think they are doing language courses. They get on well with the locals and I would guess enjoy their time in Durham .
Do all of the colleges cost the same? Ignoring the fact that catered are going to be more than self catered, which rooms/colleges are more expensive (or are they the same)?
2024, are you still in our wonderful city called Durham? Cracking video north Bailey is a wonderful place for a walk with the camera 📷
hmm feeling like maybe i should have actually picked a college on my application now...
it's calm we have that online form to do now
Thank you very much for the video guide!!! Cannot wait to be there Mid Sep!!!😀😀😀😀
no worries!! Hope you enjoy it :)
@@thatonecharlie 😀😀😀
Chads bar is my FAVOURITE! Also had pres there before going to Jimmys!
Trevs was prime as well
Ohhh what a good combination!! Love Chads and Jimmy’s :)))
Yay I’m actually living at south atm 🎉 glad you didn’t forget it haha
Ahh that’s so cool!! Hope you like it
im thinking of applying to durham and if i get in i will be moving from sweden to england which i find to be a massive step so im quite nervous hahahah
i was wondering what college is the best if your taking a psychology, philosophy or music course. Im interested in castle but ive heard its quite hard to get into, do they choose randomly or is it grade based?
Ah that would be such a cool move to do from Sweden!! Colleges aren't really tailored towards specific courses, so it would be hard to suggest a college based on a course because you're all taught together, regardless of your college. Castle is definitely a difficult college to get into but many people still get in. The system for getting into a specific college is purely random (to my knowledge).
How are the law students like in durham and what college do you think most of them are in?
Law students are evenly dispersed among all colleges, like with every other subject. So by that logic most law students would be in the larger colleges, e.g. Collingwood.
how far is st johns to the science department I'm applying for geophysics
and having difficulty choosing between st marys st johns and st Cuthberts also greys too
Looking at the map, I’d say Mary’s is probably the closest, but from my experience of being at Durham in the late 1970s, I can say that both John’s and Cuthbert’s are within reasonable walking distance-unless you’re a late riser or otherwise incapacitated! They’re both close to Prebends Bridge at the end of North Bailey, from which you can reach Quarryheads Lane by a footpath at the other end.
@@isaacdavid1958 I wouldn't mind doing a 15-20 minute walk from the baileys to get to science department everyday like for school I usually I have to walk 25 minutes so anything at that distance is fine
@@rachellexx8703 I feel sure you could do it in that time, but it might be worth making a phone call to John’s (as the furthest away) or the department to be sure. I wouldn’t want you to choose John’s and then find it actually took more than 25 minutes. I was at Hatfield myself and made regular journeys to visit friends at Mary’s and Trev’s using that route, but I can’t say I timed it. However, if the timing is fine, I can certainly recommend John’s, or any “peninsula” college for that matter, for the way in which living there feels a bit like living in a village. And John’s does have a good atmosphere about it. Good luck with your choice in any case, and enjoy the time you spend there-it’s a great university.
Hi, I’m thinking of applying to Durham this year (start 2021). Is it harder to get into a college such as St Chads/St John as they are smaller? I would much prefer a smaller college as I’m not the most outgoing! And would also love to be in the Bailey.
I know people who applied to Chads and didn't get in. I think they are both quite highly in demand. I've found a link to some statistics that you might find useful: www.dur.ac.uk/resources/colleges.se.office/UGPreferencesforColleges-2019Entry.pdf
Then again, you could easily still get allocated to Chads/Johns if you put them as your preference. Then again, any college that you get I'm sure you'd end up loving, even if its not your first choice.
ThatOneCharlie thank you so much! :)
Chad's is very popular but it's still worth applying - we have the cheapest bar and everyone is so fun, ppl think just cos we're small we're not as good as other bailey colleges but I think we are ahahah
Hi I’m thinking of applying to Durham and I was wondering what the diversity is like as I have heard some horror stories
I can't lie, diversity in Durham is dreadful. Yes, statistics might suggest that Durham is diverse, this is primarily because of the large intake of international students (although, this will likely be reduced this year because of the coronavirus). But there is a distinct lack of POC and ethnic minorities in Durham. I really hope this will change soon (although, I don't think the university is doing enough to support and encourage diversity). If you want to know anymore just let me know :)
hey, POC at durham here! lack of diversity is a big issue at the uni and i personally did have some bad racialised experiences in my first year, HOWEVER, there are spaces (societies, welfare, group chats etc) for POC to exist comfortably and cultivate a sense of community here!! definitely don’t be discouraged from applying bc the issue won’t get any better without ppl like you coming in, and if you do choose to come, you’ll almost definitely find a support system w likeminded ppl who have similar lived experiences! hope that helps! xx
cassandra thanks for the response . How hard would you say it is to make friends
JOHN DOE i did find it quite difficult at first but everyone finds their people eventually, even if it takes until second term, third term or even second year for it to happen! honestly durham has so many societies that make it super easy to find ppl to relate to so i wouldn’t worry too much abt making friends xx
cassandra thanks for the insight, what subject do u study?
I am about to list my preferences. I’ve got a conditional offer for next fall but I still can’t decide which college. I was thinking about St Johns. Do you have any other opinions about that college?
St Johns is a great college, it is in a prime location on the bailey, it also has free laundry and formals i'm pretty sure, so I think its a great option :)
ThatOneCharlie thank you!
One thing to consider is that it's quite small so a different atmosphere to larger colleges and it has quite a religious reputation (but I don't know if that holds true)... The bar is a bit shit though
I had to use people’s answers from the student room to choose my preferences, I had no clue!
What's the deal with having two accomodation sites for Cuths? Can you choose? I'd like to have the option of being self catered sometimes but I prefer the Bailey site..
There are four options: bailey single, bailey shared, parsons ensuite, and regular parsons. On a form you number them one to four and the college president allocates everyone based on that. The bailey is usually oversubscribed though so if you don't put it first you are unlikely to get it. Also this was the system when I started two years ago so it might have changed.
if you had to pick another college other than cuths which would you want to be in?
That's actually a difficult question. Maybe Chads, Castle (if i could be in the castle) or Collingwood. ahaha just any college that starts with a 'C'. Chads because it has such a lovely bar, and i love the location on the bailey. Castle because, you can live in a castle!! and Collingwood because it's the best hill college in my opinion - close enough to the science site, great bar and lots of facilities!! But pretty much everyone loves the college that they end up at :)
ThatOneCharlie thank you! I’m only going into year 13 in September and just want to skip until next year (fingers crossed I’ll be at Durham) x
Good luck in applying :)
I am DREAMING of Durham rn, and I'm really hoping to get into Trevs, wish me luck bc im feeling like im not gonna get in!
Just got an offer for Trevelyan college and all I can find out about it is the weird hexagons 😢😢😢
Do many Americans get accepted to Durham... I want to go so bad but I live in New York?
I personally know Americans at the uni, they study archaeology with me!! I don't know the acceptance rate, but its always worth a shot. Also i'm pretty sure that the cost of applying is way less than most top American universities
ThatOneCharlie yeah it’s wicked expensive in America... 50k-70k!?!?
This might sound really dumb (I went to a state school 🤣) but what’s a gown formal ?
It's a dinner, where you wear formal wear/gowns, I'm not sure, but I went last year on an offer holder tour and that's what it seemed like
Hey! Just wondering obviously each college had their bar but how much/what drinks should I bring for freshers??
Just bring a drink you feel comfortable drinking. I personally brought two large packs of cider and a large bottle of vodka. But I certainly did not drink it all in freshers week. You can always get more if you want it :)
hello, I'm 22fall durham offer holder and I choose St Cuthbert's society, I would like to know how to choose baily and parsons.....Thanks!
Which is closer to the psychology buildings, St. Mary’s or Josephine Butler?
I’d probably say Mary’s
@ThatOneCharlie thanks!!
Me after seeing the picturesque of Hilde and Bede: Aight, that's where I'm applying for this October
Charlie: But their formals aren't gowned
Me: aH daMNIT
Ahh that's so annoying!! I'm sure you'll find your perfect college :)
Are the stereotypes of colleges actually that relevant in practice? I’m applying to Durham this year and want to apply to Castle as I’ve dreamed of going there since I was like 13 lol. Even though it’s so unlikely that I’ll get into Durham and even less likely to get allocated Castle, would I be less likely to fit in since I’m from a state school and not at all posh (actually left a private school as I didn’t fit the stereotypes there)?
I think that whilst every college has a stereotype, but there are always going to be people in the exact same situation as you. I think a lot of people apply to castle because it is one of the grandest looking colleges. So I wouldn't be put off by that. You'll always find your crowd, whichever college you apply to :)
ThatOneCharlie thank you!
did you get accepted?
@@pockypu yes I did, I'm at trevs now :)
@@imogenmcewing8785 Nice! How is Trevs?
Hello, I’m not from the uk so I’m not very familiar with the “college” term. Can you please explain what you mean by college? Is it where you take your classes or the accommodations? I really like Durham and wanna apply there when I’m older! I’m just confused on what everyone means by college. Thanks!
In Durham a college starts in first year as your accomodation. However, unlike most UK uni's a college also acts as your community where you partake in sports and societies. Colleges also hold events like formals, balls and even a fashion show. Colleges also have a bar and a social space. Each college has a JCR (Junior Common Room) which basically controls the college (budget, events, sports, societies, welfare, freshers week - basically your whole time at university). Hope that makes sense?
that's okay glad I could help :)
Very helpful video :)) which college would be best if you wanted to study English lit! One on the Bailey??
I'm vegan so I was just wondering if any catered colleges have (nice) vegan options (especially Cuths), or is it better just to go for self-catered?
I personally haven't been catered, but I think they will normally have catering for certain dietary requirements. But if you want to ensure you always have a good meal, I think self-catered might be a better option
if you live in a different college, can you access facilities from other colleges?
Can you choose to be at parsons field in st cuthberts?
Yeah, if you apply to Cuths and are accepted at Cuths they'll send you an application form for your accomodation preferences, so you can chose Parsons Field. Most people in Cuths will end up there anyway, so if you put it, there is like a 95% chance you'll get it
@@thatonecharlie hi okay thanks so much! That’s good to know as I want self catering - I’m looking forward to coming to Durham this year!! As long as I get the grades lol
I debating between Grey and Mary’s I can’t decide!
They're both in a prime location. I think Mary's gets more applications per year. But if you have any questions that might help you decide let me know :)
Hello, I am looking to attend either Durham or Newcastle Uni in Sept 2021 but I will be living at home as a mature student, do you only sign up for a college at Durham if you are going to be living there? UCAS application for Durham has thrown me off, asking which college I want to be in, along side my course.
Hi, even if you're living at home as a mature student you still sign up to a college as they act as your community (e.g. for sports, socs, events like formals etc) even if you're living out :)
@@thatonecharlie that's awesome thanks Charlie for responding 😊
Thanks so much, really helpful! :D
Glad I could help:)
Hey! just curious do you know which college would be best for someone taking a finance degree, dont want to have to walk too far haha!
I think you'd probably have most of your lectures on the science site or the business school in that case. If so I'd suggest pretty much any hill college. Then again most places in Durham are really close together :)
Heyy, did you end up going to Durham? I got an offer for finance bsc as well and collingwood college which was my first choice:)
Would love to hear someone's experience of the course.
I reckon the viewers have gone to the moon now Durham is asking us to rank the colleges
There definitely has been a spike, but the majority of views came when I first published the video
Do they reallocate you in a college which is similar to one you put down? Like if you put down one on the Bailey will you most likely get another on the Bailey?
I don’t really know the process but to my knowledge I think you just get reallocated any college. Then again most people love the college they get regardless :)
I applied to Trevs and got reallocated to cuths. I'm pretty sure reallocation is random.
hey thx 4 the video. im currently debating between johns and chads, whats ur take on this?
I think they're both great colleges with little to differentiate them. I think I would personally chose Chads, although I think Chads normally gets more applications and so might have a lower acceptance rate (which means you might be put in a different college).
Can’t wait to join South this year
AYYY not long to wait now!!
I’m currently at South. Let me know if you have any questions!
Hoping someone can help me with this - is Durham a wheelchair-friendly city? In recent months my health has deteriorated badly and my GP has said I may need to use a wheelchair "most days" once I start my Masters. some of these pavements looked quite cobbled and it looks quite hilly, can anyone confirm/deny?
I'm not actually able to send an individual message but I would also like to know this and that why cant everyone stay at the Castle? Like which type of college is the castle for? Idk I'm confused, if someone replies to this I would appreciate it if you could reply to me.... thankyou!
Does it matter if your college is on the Bailey but your department is on the hill??
I'd say it really doesn't matter at all. Durham is really small anyway. I'd also say that the majority of learning either takes place in Elvet Riverside or the Science site
Hi, I am an international student, as a Latina I am quite interested if there are any colleges that might be less inclusive? or that are lacking diversity? As well I seem to find a lot of clubs of Durham Uni yet idk which college they belong to? are there non-assigned college clubs? I will be studying Business and Castle seems lovely but let me know if it might not be the right option. Thank you!
Hola , tambien soy latina y estoy interesada en Durham al igual que tu me preocupa que no haya mucha inclusión y que como chilena no de alta clase me resulte dificil la adaptación .
@@valentinavalverde8122 Hola Valentina, te cuento que yo me encuentro ahora en la Universidad de Glasgow. La verdad cada dia me alegro de mi decision, yo casi fui a Durham y la verdad el ambiente simplemente no era para mi. Igualmente te recomiendo investigar mas y quizas contactar a estudiantas para que te den su experiencia.
I was looking for accommodation at Durham, I've understood that we call these accommodations as college !?
They are more than accommodations per se. It’s your community for the 3 years at durham. Similar to oxbridge
Would you say the people who go there are from working-class or a mix of different backgrounds?
does this count for only the first year of accommodation? I hope the question makes sense
Which is cheaper self catered or catered? 😭 and also what colleges have the best but cheapest formals? Ty!
Self-catered has cheaper fees but remember you'll need to buy groceries so it'll probably even out :)
Are there halal meal plans in collingwood college?
how likely is it that you get a shared room? really want to apply to cuths or chads but i think a lot of the rooms are shared. are there many colleges on the bailey with no shared rooms? thanks so much for this video, was really helpful!!
Cuths has 32 shared rooms and Chads has 45 shared rooms. I know for Cuths that went you get allocated a place you can place preferences on what type of accomodation you want (e.g. bailey, parsons, catered, self-catered, shared room or not). All colleges on the bailey have some shared rooms. Hope this helps :)
@@thatonecharlie yeh that's great thank you!
Do you ever wear a gown if you go to Cuths?
Emm just wanna ask if I'm taking Archaeology, which college should I choose in terms of locations and stuff? I'm considering St.Mary, Cuth's and Grey rn
Honestly college locations dont matter as much as you might think. Just apply to the ones you like the look of!!
thank you SO much for this video.
Charlie can you please tell me the courses or what ever you know about the FORENSIC SCIENCE department ( for external students as well) in Durham ?!
That would be of great help.
Btw you look healthy and ig you gained some ❤ :)
I don't think Durham has a forensic science department. But you can check all the courses and modules in Durham here: www.dur.ac.uk/faculty.handbook/listdeptmodules/ but thank you :)
@@thatonecharlie Welcome Charlie. Your videos are really informative and awesome by the way. Keep posting ! ❤
Thank youuuuu :)))
I’m not having this . Mildert’s lake is beautiful and houses Dave the swan (an actual icon) . Yes, it might be a biohazard but it’s beautiful to me 😍
Each to their own :) I'm sure people in Mildert love it!!
ThatOneCharlie they certainly do!!
Which of these colleges is the best for Bacherlors in Engineering?
What about South College?
i miss my uni. i need to visit soon
Please help me between ucl and durham
I personally chose Durham, and had UCL as my insurance choice. But I think it really depends on what you want from a university??
Has this video got any relevance?
which is closest to the languages area? I have an offer from castle but I’ve got no idea how far away it is haha
To my knowledge I think most languages are taught in Elvet Riverside. So really close to castle, maybe a 5 minute walk :)
that is a rapid offer. What for?
@@owlproductiones i applied last year for 2021
Hey Charlie!Hope you’re well, this was so helpful! I’m applying for History & Combined honours this year. So torn which college I should apply to. I want to be near the Bailey & want traditional - gowned college?
Don’t wanna apply for castle cause you don’t actually live in the castle & will most likely to be allocated elsewhere ... same with Chads.
I’ll be 20 when I start, is it normal at Durham for people to be 1-2 years old in first year?
Oooh great course choice. I think if you don't want to risk going for Chads or Castle, and you want a gowned college I would probably say your only choices are hatfield and Johns. But yeah it's totally normal for people to start 1-2 years older. I was 19 when I started and I had a flatmate who was 24!! Literally everyone got on perfectly well, so I really don't thin that ages matters at University :)
how many of the college songs do you know?
I know the Cuth's one and thats about it. I don't think people really know any others aside from the songs and chants from their college
Sadly the college songs are usually either country roads or angels 😢
POV: your entering in 2023 and Durham asked for your list of preferences
Just watched this out of curiosity because it came up in my recommended and it makes Durham look a lot better and nicer than it is ahah
when you apply to durham does the college you apply to affect your chance of getting into the university generally. like if i applied to a very popular college like castle would that lessen my chances of getting in overall??
Don’t think so
Hi! I am trying to choose a college and I will be applying for economics which is in the business department. Do you think it would be a long walk to St.Chads every day?
I'm in chads and it's a 15-20min walk to the science site (depending how fast you walk) so not too bad for a bailey college, plus it's SO close to town so great for nights out :)
I applied for hatfield bc i did no research before applying............i'm not a rah.......severely regretting that decision
Honestly there will be so many people doing the same thing!! It's only the stereotype of the college and you're bound to find your people there so I wouldn't worry too much!! Also you can always make friends in other colleges :)
What a shame you dismissed Hild Bede, both as being an outlier and with the shortest information. It has beautiful views, great facilities, and right next to the river. Why not visit the bar and meet everyone there?
Hild Bede is a lovely college, one of my favourites. I have friends from the college too, and have been to the bar, and partaken in some of their college sports. 10/10 highly recommend
I have applied to Archeology and Anthopology at Durham, which colleges are the closest ones to the departments?
Durham is so small that it doesnt really matter. Especially as lectures could be anywhere. But most will probably be on the science site, so Grey/Mary's is probbaly the best. But I wouldnt base a decision solely on distance to the department
Hello 👋, do you get assigned a college or do you choose. If I was doing psychology would I be put in a specific one or is it just random.
You choose one, but you might not get it if a lot of people want it as well. Alternatively, if you have no preference, they will allocate you themselves.
What is the nearest college to the economics dept ?
I think economics takes place on the science site so any college near there e.g. Mary’s or Grey
ThatOneCharlie what College do you find Most Economics/ Finance/ Business Students, Friends sister went to Hatfield , looks really nice is it worth the „hate“ lol wht are my chances if I apply there
Is st Mary’s good for sport/dance/performing arts? Also, what are the top 5 most popular colleges?
I think they are middling at sport but can only really remember their rugby team. Also I'm pretty sure the most oversubscribed colleges are castle, Chad's and Mary's.
I should see this video before i chose the college on last year 🤣
This makes me want to go to Uni!
I've got into John Snow for this year - but it's not actually contrsructed yet? Whatt???????
It is constructed but they are just finalising things now :)
It's a Stockton college originally (the now abandoned Durham campus) and is in the process of moving still. Last year they were all in private accomodation in the viaduct while the college was built, but it looks like a home has been found.
How far is JB from business school?
It’s probably around a 10 minute walk. Nothing in Durham is too far away :)
Says Aidens looks like a prison but doesn't mention at cuths we were opposite the prison!
Ahh that is true, but only the Parsons site is near the prison. But it really didn’t have any affect on my time there :)
Our new Jack Edwards....All the same castle is heart of Durham
Ahaha of course
Is the Castle the most difficult to get into?!
It's definitely hard to get into (in comparison to other colleges) mainly because so many people apply to castle. But it doesn't mean you can't get allocated a place there :)
I heard that you get to choose the colleges when you accept the offer, like a house in Harry Potter, is that true,? And your college community will be like your family. ?
You actually chose your college when you apply!! And yes your college community is like a large extended family :)
ThatOneCharlie thank you 😊 can I change the college after applying? I am a post graduate student, I have a conditional offer letter and there is nothing mentioned about college
Unfourtunately you can't change your college after you apply, but you can get reallocated. Then again I'm not sure how it works for postgrads. You may still have to decide on your college