St Hilda's - Student View

The last all-female college, relaxed, welcoming and full of active students from a range of social, economic and ethnic backgrounds.

It's open plan, lying over six acres of gardens alongside the River Cherwell; river, lawns and (free) punts make the summer term extremely pleasant.

Work is pressurised but tutors and friends help - academic emphasis is on co-operation not competition. Relatively easy to change course, with tutor's permission, in first term (JCR president will help). Students do their best to relieve stressed freshers and exam candidates. Library well-stocked, long opening hours and helpful staff.

Active JCR committee represents students to authorities. Single furnished rooms are guaranteed for first and final years; rent includes 60 meal tickets per term. Food excellent, good value; snack and vegetarian options, voluntary formal dinner weekly. Some cooking facilities if you prefer to cook for yourself; snacks and confectionery sold in bar and buttery. Generous space for bike parking; security scheme (no car/motorbike provision).

3 computer rooms, pool table, 3 laundries, 3 common rooms, TVs and video and tennis courts; also the Jacqueline Du Pre music building (best in university). Boat club thriving with pro and fun crews and lots of parties. College drama, annual Arts Festival; Hilda's women high profile in university clubs and societies.

City centre 10 minutes' walk, but college peaceful retreat from its tourists and noise. Cowley Road nearby with interesting shops; variety of ethnic restaurants/fast food outlets; off-licence; liberal smattering of pubs and clubs; large supermarket.