New College - Student View

One of the oldest, largest and most beautiful colleges, its size helps create its friendly and tolerant atmosphere. It's very central, with extensive grounds and excellent facilities. There's a diverse range of personalities from a variety of educational and social backgrounds.

The college is active in Oxford's Target Schools and access schemes, and the ratio of male to female students never varies much from parity. Recent modifications have made the college more accessible to the disabled.

The bar is arguably the best student bar in Oxford, and the ents are renowned; the triannual Commemoration Balls are rightly regarded as highlights of the social calendar. Wide student involvement in extra-curricular activities adds to the lively atmosphere.

College drama is particularly strong, with university-wide involvement. The thriving music society stages an annual festival, with many smaller concerts in-between, and the JCR operates a well-equipped band room. The college choir is world-famous and there is an enthusiastic student orchestra.

Sports facilities are good and the college has a large sports ground nearby with cricket pavilion and squash courts; rugby and football teams (men's and women's); successful women's rowing crew. Strong involvement in university sports.

For the academically minded, it offers superb teaching facilities and library provision, and has a well-established (though not intimidating) academic record. Tutors rely more on individual interest than official sanctions so there is the potential to go far beyond that required if you are particularly interested in something. Reading weeks are held in the college's Alpine chalet.

Outstanding student welfare provision from both the college and the JCR itself. Despite some apathetic tendencies, the students espouse a healthy and diverse mix of political ideals and beliefs. In this supportive community atmosphere, it's easy to carve out your own niche; which is probably why most swear they wouldn't want to be anywhere else.