St Catherine's - Student View

Whilst it's one of the newest colleges (1962), Catz was founded in the 19th century as a way of enabling poor students to study at Oxford.

Representing the very best of 1960s architecture, it is a set of long, low buildings, with lots of glass, and some very beautiful gardens. As a newer college, many Catz attitudes are more liberal than at other colleges - for example, the latest opening bar! It is also one of the largest colleges, with a great diversity amongst its students - a high proportion of international and visiting students - and a great sense of community.

Students are guaranteed at least two years in college accommodation (many now manage three, and soon there will be the option for all). Rooms are good, have masses of storage space, self-catering facilities, and bathrooms are excellent (some rooms are ensuite).

The social life is very good; there is a large and well-equipped JCR-bar complex, which is the centre of the social scene. There are ents every other week, and most terms a major event (eg Catz Night, or the college barbecue - basically an excuse for lots of cheap alcohol) at which the whole college lets its hair down.

Drop out rates are low, and changing course fairly easy, provided you are academically good. Catz is prominent in virtually every university society, from sport to drama and music, and there are many active college societies.

In-college facilities include a music house with a Steinway grand, squash and tennis courts, gym, sports field, dark room, punts, computer room, and a largish theatre.