Hatfeild College

Hi, I'm currently applying to Durham uni and when it comes to applying for colleges I'd like some advice. I want to study Theology and the faculty is next to the Cathedral on the Bailey, this has made the Bailey colleges very appealing for their location. When I went on the open day I was toured around Hatfeild by a kind, welcoming individual who gave me a great impression of the place, and I was impressed with the rooms, libraries, bar etc. Only after the open day did I start looking online for people's opinions on the colleges and heard about Hatfield's reputation. So, any Hatfeild students who see this or Durham students in general, is it really that bad??
Thank you for your help

Hiya,
Hatfield does have its stereotypes and reputation yes, but every student has their own experience and while I have heard of people not liking hatfield, I have also heard of students who were allocated hatfield and love it. Everyone has mixed experiences at every college, even some of the more popular/loved colleges have students who have had a terrible experience so I wouldn't focus too much on other peoples experiences. While yes it can help narrow down your options, it's not the most important factor at the end of the day. You went to Hatfield, saw it for yourself and as you said, met some kind individuals who showed you around; in reality, peoples experiences at college are usually determined by who they meet/socialise with, so if you met some people from Hatfield who left a good impression, whats to say that once you live in Hatfield you won't meet other people that will make your time at Hatfield positive and memorable 🙂
To answer your question, no Hatfield is not as bad as everyone makes it out to be, the key to making the most of your experience at generally all colleges at Durham is to surround yourself with good/fun people that won't bring you down and to make the most of any opportunities you're presented as well as trying new things.
Hope this helps!
-Ghala
(Official DU Rep)