[penguin90]

Hi

I'm applying for biochemistry at Oxford, just attempting to choose a college

I would like to apply somewhere that's not too big (I stayed at Hertford on the open day and that kind of size college appeals to me), and quite easygoing in terms of academic stuff and the people there - I'm not too bothered about going to a college that has the best reputation/specialists on my subject

I like the idea of somewhere that offers accomodation for as many years as possible (biochemistry is a 4 year course), but don't know in the event how important this really is - does anyone have any advice? Also good facilities in terms of internet in all the rooms, and somewhere quite near the centre of town would be good

Btw I'm not just attempting to foist off this decision onto someone else (I am doing research too ) but just thought I'd make the most of being able to get advice from those in the know

Thanks

[Turdburger]

My girlfriend is a biochem (at BNC). Worked very hard compared to other colleges so if you want somewhere easy going I wouldnt recommend going to BNC.

[gruffyddd]

Also Brasenose is quite small so I think you have to live out in the 2nd year. In fact the only college I know that guarantees accommodation is St Hugh's but that's far away, perhaps St Catherine's do..?

[chocolatebear]

really? i thought our consistent position near the bottom of the norrington table would suggest we were pretty easy going! but maybe not for biochem, who knows. otherwise i'd say brasenose pretty much fits the criteria

[chocolatebear]

and brasenosers don't usually have to live out. college guarantees years 1, 3 and 4 and usually everyone in 2nd who wants accommodation gets it

[Turdburger]

The BNC annexe being the some of the most central accomodation of the university.

[Turdburger]

Yeh, BNC is pretty relaxed academically, just not for Biochem,

[Mook]

I think that Oriel guarantees accommodation for the duration of your course, it's one of the smaller colleges and it's fairly central, but I've no idea about anything specifically to do with Biochemistry I'm afraid.

[sophisti_kate]

Lincoln? Might be a bit small for you but does offer accomodation for all years, bang in the centre and good facilities...

[ajadedidealist]

Seconding Mook - yes, Oriel does guarantee accommodation. From what I remember, 1st and 2nd years are usually on-site, and 3rd/4th years are usually at JMH, on Iffley Road (I think) - which is supposed to be quite nice in terms of en-suites/kitchens/things.

[The_Lonely_Goatherd]

Worcester matches almost all your criteria. It is one of the biggest colleges though. So, depending on how important the size of the college is to you, you might like to check out Worcester