Balliol - Student View

Good academically but with a relaxed attitude and a high level of student participation in all sorts of college and university activities.

JCR (Junior Common Room - the student body) is central to college life with a large common room, the Lindsay bar (student-run), a well-equipped gym, telephones, TV room, free tampons, condoms and rape alarms and taxi refunds for travel after dark. Heated political debates in JCR meetings which discuss a variety of college and wider issues.

Extremely central location and beautiful surroundings. Good library facilities and 24hr computer access. Great social events that are the envy of other colleges. Central sports facilities and a theatre to house drama society. Active women's group and many discussion societies including lesbian, gay and bisexual.

College tortoise, Rosa, is a major celebrity in the summer months. Strong sense of community and diverse student body - many international students. Overall, a very active and forward-looking college with an emphasis on public service and a good balance between social and academic life.