St Aidans
Didn't see a thread around for Aidans so I thought I'd make one! I applied for Chads but got into Aidans so was pretty disappointed for a while, and have just about come to terms with it now. 
Is there anyone else around starting at Aidans this year, or anyone already there who could tell me a bit about what it's like? I've read it can be known as the party college which really isn't me at all so I'm a bit worried, plus the thoughts of climbing up the hill aren't very inviting, although I'm sure the view's great. 
Thanks! 
Is there anyone else around starting at Aidans this year, or anyone already there who could tell me a bit about what it's like? I've read it can be known as the party college which really isn't me at all so I'm a bit worried, plus the thoughts of climbing up the hill aren't very inviting, although I'm sure the view's great. Thanks! Scroll to see replies
Hey, I'm at Aidan's (second year). I hadn't originally applied to Aidan's, but it is true that as soon as you get to Durham you'll instantly swear that your college is the best college! I love Aidan's now.
In terms of it being the 'party' college, that's a bit misleading I'd say. In better terms, it's one of the least formal. Gowns aren't worn, so formals are fancy dress, with a few black tie throughout the year, and the themes are always really fun! We've had Harry Potter, Cluedo, Under the Sea and Africa to name but a few.
There are people in every college who like to go out a lot and party, and people in every college who prefer not to and have a quiet night at the pub/ hang around college. So I wouldn't worry, you'll find plenty of people to hang around with, whatever your preferences.
The best thing about Aidan's I'd say is how friendly it is. As soon as you arrive you are met by current students eager to help you unload your belongings and settle in. I had made so many friends by the end of Freshers week, despite being really shy before coming to university. The JCR is also one of the most active, and there are always good activities going on to take part in.
Also the hill really isn't that bad :P By the end of the year you'll join the elite group of Aidanites, who can laugh at those struggling to climb hills And yes, the view is rather stunning (best in Durham!)
Let me know if you have any more specific questions relating to college life/ Durham in general
In terms of it being the 'party' college, that's a bit misleading I'd say. In better terms, it's one of the least formal. Gowns aren't worn, so formals are fancy dress, with a few black tie throughout the year, and the themes are always really fun! We've had Harry Potter, Cluedo, Under the Sea and Africa to name but a few.
There are people in every college who like to go out a lot and party, and people in every college who prefer not to and have a quiet night at the pub/ hang around college. So I wouldn't worry, you'll find plenty of people to hang around with, whatever your preferences.
The best thing about Aidan's I'd say is how friendly it is. As soon as you arrive you are met by current students eager to help you unload your belongings and settle in. I had made so many friends by the end of Freshers week, despite being really shy before coming to university. The JCR is also one of the most active, and there are always good activities going on to take part in.
Also the hill really isn't that bad :P By the end of the year you'll join the elite group of Aidanites, who can laugh at those struggling to climb hills
And yes, the view is rather stunning (best in Durham!) Let me know if you have any more specific questions relating to college life/ Durham in general
I also have an offer for Aidans to study maths, however I have a few questions so it'd be great if you could help out.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
Original post by sophie.s
I also have an offer for Aidans to study maths, however I have a few questions so it'd be great if you could help out.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
Hey
Well I study Physics so probs can help quite a bit 1) The university is very friendly, and you make so many friends (it's known as the Durham bubble as you can hardly walk down the street without seeing someone you know!). I would say Durham is far from boring. Apart from having a HUGE number of societies to get involved in, from arts to sports to almost anything, there is the option of nightlife. Durham does have its own selection of venues, from the infamous Klute, to Studio and Loveshack, as well as Boathouse and other bars and pubs. There is also Newcastle close by with more clubs. Aidan's also organises Newcastle night a couple of times a year, where those that want to sign up, they get coach transfer to and from Newcastle, entry into quite a few clubs/ bars and then drinks deals. College bars are also great places to socialise, even for non drinkers, and there are often open mic nights, sports evenings and other themed events. So there really is something for any taste.
2) Yes, there is lots of opportunity to mingle with other colleges. Even in Fresher's week you'll meet people while out (probably with a loud rendition of some college chant/ song type thing), and then once lectures start you meet people from all over the university. You do have a lot to do with your own college, but you also can make lots of friends in other colleges and even attend their events (for example, attending another college formal to experience wearing a gown).
3) Aidan's in 3 words - Friendly, Varied and Fun!
4) I know quite a few people who didn't enjoy the open day, and lots of people do find it awkward as you are left with a fairly random bunch of new people. However, most people love it as soon as they actually get to Durham. In contrast to other universities (having talked to friends at other universities), people tend to settle in at Durham more quickly, mostly because the college system means you can meet lots of new people quickly and find friends quickly, rather than being stuck in a corridor or flat as at some other universities.
I'd certainly recommend Durham!
Any other questions feel free to ask
Original post by pianofluteftw
Hey, I'm at Aidan's (second year). I hadn't originally applied to Aidan's, but it is true that as soon as you get to Durham you'll instantly swear that your college is the best college! I love Aidan's now.
In terms of it being the 'party' college, that's a bit misleading I'd say. In better terms, it's one of the least formal. Gowns aren't worn, so formals are fancy dress, with a few black tie throughout the year, and the themes are always really fun! We've had Harry Potter, Cluedo, Under the Sea and Africa to name but a few.
There are people in every college who like to go out a lot and party, and people in every college who prefer not to and have a quiet night at the pub/ hang around college. So I wouldn't worry, you'll find plenty of people to hang around with, whatever your preferences.
The best thing about Aidan's I'd say is how friendly it is. As soon as you arrive you are met by current students eager to help you unload your belongings and settle in. I had made so many friends by the end of Freshers week, despite being really shy before coming to university. The JCR is also one of the most active, and there are always good activities going on to take part in.
Also the hill really isn't that bad :P By the end of the year you'll join the elite group of Aidanites, who can laugh at those struggling to climb hills And yes, the view is rather stunning (best in Durham!)
Let me know if you have any more specific questions relating to college life/ Durham in general
In terms of it being the 'party' college, that's a bit misleading I'd say. In better terms, it's one of the least formal. Gowns aren't worn, so formals are fancy dress, with a few black tie throughout the year, and the themes are always really fun! We've had Harry Potter, Cluedo, Under the Sea and Africa to name but a few.
There are people in every college who like to go out a lot and party, and people in every college who prefer not to and have a quiet night at the pub/ hang around college. So I wouldn't worry, you'll find plenty of people to hang around with, whatever your preferences.
The best thing about Aidan's I'd say is how friendly it is. As soon as you arrive you are met by current students eager to help you unload your belongings and settle in. I had made so many friends by the end of Freshers week, despite being really shy before coming to university. The JCR is also one of the most active, and there are always good activities going on to take part in.
Also the hill really isn't that bad :P By the end of the year you'll join the elite group of Aidanites, who can laugh at those struggling to climb hills
And yes, the view is rather stunning (best in Durham!) Let me know if you have any more specific questions relating to college life/ Durham in general
Thanks for the response, it's reassured me a bit.
So does everyone get involved in the fancy dress stuff then? (Do most people/everyone go to the formals?) It sounds quite fun, but I feel like I'd be too shy to get into it.
Is it easy enough to get bits and pieces for it once I arrive or should I come prepared? Oh, and if you don't wear gowns at the formals, do you still buy one or not? It's nice to hear about people being really friendly - I'm the type of person that needs that, or I'll just end up hiding in my room.
Do most people in first year share rooms? And in general, what are the rooms like?
I read somewhere about a creative writing workshop that meets in Aidans. Do you happen to know anything about it?
What kind of events tend to go on during the day at freshers week? Is it mostly/completely college-based?
As a second year (I'm assuming you're living out) do you find that you're still in college a lot, or not?
Sorry for all the (possible stupid) questions and thanks for taking the time to answer them.
Hey. I've just firmed my offer from Durham and St. Aidan's for Anthropology & Sociology. Aidan's was actually my first choice. I've stayed at the university a few times in the past for summer programmes, each time at Van Mildert, but on one occasion we visited Aidan's for just a couple of hours and I was sold. After attending the open day, I definitely feel I made the right choice. Everyone is relaxed and friendly, there's a wonderfully diverse staff and student body and it feels welcoming as well as purposeful. The facilities are great, the rooms are better than any I've seen elsewhere and you feel part of a fantastic community. I really don't think you'll have any regrets once you get there.
I believe I was told at some point that wherever possible they take into account whether applicants share the ethos of each college? I can't remember who told me, and I may very well be wrong so please take that with a pinch of salt. But I felt that when I was at Aidan's I was surrounded by people who shared similar principles, despite all having our own individual tastes/hobbies/ambitions/etc. It's a really harmonious atmosphere.
I've just firmed my offer from Durham and St. Aidan's for Anthropology & Sociology. Aidan's was actually my first choice. I've stayed at the university a few times in the past for summer programmes, each time at Van Mildert, but on one occasion we visited Aidan's for just a couple of hours and I was sold. After attending the open day, I definitely feel I made the right choice. Everyone is relaxed and friendly, there's a wonderfully diverse staff and student body and it feels welcoming as well as purposeful. The facilities are great, the rooms are better than any I've seen elsewhere and you feel part of a fantastic community. I really don't think you'll have any regrets once you get there.I believe I was told at some point that wherever possible they take into account whether applicants share the ethos of each college? I can't remember who told me, and I may very well be wrong so please take that with a pinch of salt. But I felt that when I was at Aidan's I was surrounded by people who shared similar principles, despite all having our own individual tastes/hobbies/ambitions/etc. It's a really harmonious atmosphere.
Original post by Kyasako
Thanks for the response, it's reassured me a bit.
...
D
...
D
Going to formals is encouraged, but some people go to more than others. I love formals, and find them great fun
Some people arrive with lots of fancy dress items (before fresher's week you'll get a pack with the themes for each day of freshers week so you'll at least arrive with a few bits) but there's a great fabric and fancy dress shop, as well as lots of available cardboard etc (people like to be creative, and there are often prizes ) And don't think that being shy will be any sort of disadvantage - I was shy before I got to Durham, and now people don't believe me when I tell them that! You meet such friendly people it's easy to get really involved And no, you don't need to buy a gown (well until you graduate at least :P)
In Aidan's the majority of first year rooms are shared (I think it's 60:40, shared:single) but if you have a particular reason why you don't wish to share, they will take it into consideration, especially if it's medical. You fill in a questionnaire, based on who you are, what you like doing, preferred bed times etc. and so can match people up really accurately, loads of the people I know are best friends with their first year room mates
The rooms are actually really good standard. Each is fairly large for university accommodation, contains a bed, desk, chair, sink and lots of storage space. Under the bed is a bed box where stuff can be stored over the holidays. Rooms are arranged on corridors (and a few in houses), and similar people tend to be grouped into similar areas of college. There are shared (but single gender) toilets and showers, and each corridor has a kitchen with a few hobs, a microwave and counters in (but as it's catered these are only usually used rarely for cooking, more often for birthday parties )Yes Aidan's is home to quite a large variety of events, including language events, and the creative writing course called Inkapture I believe. In my year it was taken by a fairly well known author, Fadia Faqir, and people I know who took part in it enjoyed it. Other events that go on in college are varied, from sports, to dance, to lots of musical activities and all sorts.
In Fresher's week there are a variety of college based activities, from administrative things to college fresher's fair (where you can sign up to college based societies). But there are also lots of activities not in college, one day you have Matriculation, which is a formal welcome to the university in the cathedral, where other colleges wear gowns, and others just dress smart. Basically it's a few speeches from important university people, but it's certainly an experience! Then there is the DSU freshers fair, for signing up to other societies (and getting free stuff) as well as stuff organised by your actual department (initial talks, tours and so on). So it's busy - but fun! Then every night there are a whole load of activities based on various themes, with opportunities both for people to go out, and stay in.
And yes, I'm in a shared house now. I live only about 15 mins from college still, and go back every week for choir, sometimes to JCR meetings and formals, and for other special events. You do keep a link with your college throughout your time in Durham
Also sorry for the essay response! :P
Also if people haven't seen it, check out last years Fresher's handbook for a bit of an idea of college life. The website is currently under construction, but this should at least give you an idea
http://www.staidansjcr.com/Handbook%20FINAL2.pdf
http://www.staidansjcr.com/Handbook%20FINAL2.pdf
Original post by Elixir95
I believe I was told at some point that wherever possible they take into account whether applicants share the ethos of each college?
From this year, they're trialling a system whereby applicants are automatically accepted by their first pick college if there's still space, and randomly allocated elsewhere if not. I think. The details seem to keep changing.
From what I read though its not first come first served. If a college is oversubscribed the places are allotted by lottery. Then everyone who lost out gets randomly allocated. I understand why they may think this is more transparent but seems like it will make more people unhappy. Probably could make it better if you could designate second and third choices.
Original post by star999
From what I read though its not first come first served. If a college is oversubscribed the places are allotted by lottery. Then everyone who lost out gets randomly allocated. I understand why they may think this is more transparent but seems like it will make more people unhappy. Probably could make it better if you could designate second and third choices.
Yes I agree, taking into account second and maybe third preference would be a good idea giving you at least the option of a similar type of college experience if you didn't get your first choice
Original post by sophie.s
I also have an offer for Aidans to study maths, however I have a few questions so it'd be great if you could help out.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
1) My impression of the Uni in general tends to be that it is friendly etc, but would get a bit boring especially regarding nightlife. How often do you go out at night and where to?
2) There seems to be a lot of emphasis on each individual college however is there many opportunities to mingle with other colleges?
3) How would you describe St Aidans in three words?
4) I didnt really enjoy the open day, I thought it was all a bit awkward. However, i do appreciate that its a very good uni and after settling in it should be good, but should I accept the offer if I don't think its 100% the place for me.
I'm at Aidan's doing Maths!!
1) Aidan's is so friendly and nightlife isn't that boring. There's quite a few people who do Maths at Aidan's that go out 2 times a week (sometimes more but with a Maths timetable I wouldn't suggest it, I have a friend who is still catching up on notes for a course and the exam is tomorrow
). Most people that like going out go out on Wednesday nights to Lloyd's (in my opinion the best night out in the week). Some people go to Academy on Saturday and the Klute any other day of the week. Basically it's only boring if you let it be. You quickly learn how to entertain yourselves. Oh and there's always the college bar which is great!2) I know a few people from other colleges that do Maths. You usually meet people in tutorials. And if you do university sport/university societies then you are bound to meet people from other colleges then. I've never really felt the need to mingle too much with other colleges but that doesn't mean that if you want to you can't.
3) Crazy, Fun, Rainbow (college)
4) Not everyone's open day was good. I really enjoyed mine but my roommate (who was actually an open day rep) didn't enjoy hers so much. It's a very short amount of time to give you a real idea of what the college is like. I would say that it gives you an okay idea about formals (although actual ones are a little bit crazier) and perhaps events in the bar but most the time the people you meet on open day aren't the people you'll end up socialising with once you come to Aidan's.
I definetly don't reget coming to Aidan's and studying Maths at Durham, neither has anyone on my course (at Aidan's) that I can think of. I've met some pretty amazing people here and I love the college. Maths at Durham is hard, that's for sure but it's going to be hard everywhere. But yeah, in the end it's up to you. If there's somewhere where you think you would fit in better/ have a better time then definetly go there.
If you have any questions feel free to inbox me =D
(edited 10 years ago)
We have a new website, hooray! Check it out www.st-aidans.com
www.st-aidans.com
Hiya guys, there is a St Aidan's freshers group for 2013 on Facebook if anyone want's to join - Link is https://www.facebook.com/groups/475795292507733/ :-)
Original post by kikadb
Hello,
Im coming to St Aidans in October, is there any tips? Is there an online group for all who are coming?
Im coming to St Aidans in October, is there any tips? Is there an online group for all who are coming?
Hiya I'll be starting in October too so I don't have any tips, but there is a group on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/510971175641657/?bookmark_t=group
Hey, I just got allocated St Aidan's for October 2014. I have a few questions that I dont believe have been asked yet...
1) is the gym good for a serious weightlifter?
2) is the canteen food generally quite healthy (with plenty of protein and stuff)?
3) is it a good location in regard to other parts of the uni?
4) has it got a good international student body (mainly south american/spanish/portuguese people)?
Thanks for any input
1) is the gym good for a serious weightlifter?
2) is the canteen food generally quite healthy (with plenty of protein and stuff)?
3) is it a good location in regard to other parts of the uni?
4) has it got a good international student body (mainly south american/spanish/portuguese people)?
Thanks for any input
Hi everyone just got my St Aidan's allocation letter! Wasn't my college of choice, but I'm still looking forward to it. Does anyone know if you have to live in halls during the first year?
Posted from TSR Mobile
just got my St Aidan's allocation letter! Wasn't my college of choice, but I'm still looking forward to it. Does anyone know if you have to live in halls during the first year?Posted from TSR Mobile
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