Ask me about University College Durham (AKA Castle)

4

Hi - I'm in my final year at Durham University, and I'm at University College (also called Castle). I'm very involved in college life, so if anyone prospective students or offer holders want to ask me anything about it here please do!

(edited 1 month ago)

Reply 1

lilygrcbell

3

Original post

by BPllrd03

Hi - I'm in my final year at Durham University, and I'm at University College (also called Castle). I'm very involved in college life, so if anyone prospective students or offer holders want to ask me anything about it here please do!

This might sound ridiculous but how did you go about making friends, there's so many new people how did you know which you would get along with?

Reply 2

BPllrd03

OP

4

Original post

by lilygrcbell

This might sound ridiculous but how did you go about making friends, there's so many new people how did you know which you would get along with?

I was very lucky and made friends with the people in my accommodation block fairly quickly, but for some people it takes longer and that's totally ok and normal. I think the college system really helps because its already a smaller group of people, so its less intimidating. Freshers' week is also fully student run, so we know exactly what's best to help you guys meet people and make friends for that first week. Additionally, joining sports and societies across college and the uni is great! I made loads of friends through the rowing team (which I was totally new to doing). Generally, the more you put in the more you get out! If you want freshers week info go to the @castlefreshersweek25 page to see what weve put on before.

Reply 3

Anonymous #1

Hi, I was wondering if you knew the likelihood of being assigned the self-catered accomdation of Castle College- is it totally random? I don't want to have catering but I'm aware that colllege allocation is mostly luck of the draw. Thank you!

Reply 4

Anonymous #2

How are the drama societies at castle? Can you join if not a member of the college?

Reply 5

BPllrd03

OP

4

Original post

by Anonymous

Hi, I was wondering if you knew the likelihood of being assigned the self-catered accomdation of Castle College- is it totally random? I don't want to have catering but I'm aware that colllege allocation is mostly luck of the draw. Thank you!

Our self-catered accommodation is called New Kepier, and this makes up a minority of our first year rooms. You're more likely to end up in catered accommodation, especially if you have a disability requirement for catering. If you want a bigger bed or ensuite, Kepier is more likely. However, the uni keeps changing how room allocation works - so I cant guarantee anything!

Reply 6

BPllrd03

OP

4

Original post

by Anonymous

How are the drama societies at castle? Can you join if not a member of the college?

At Castle we Have the Castle Theatre Company, who tour around the country yearly. Normally you only join societies in your own college because they're subsidised by your college membership, however if you reach out it can sometimes be possible. Durham Student Theatre is also very strong, often appearing at Edinburgh fringe etc, so there are loads of options.

Reply 7

Anonymous #2

Is the accommodation that’s not in the castle still nice?

Reply 8

BPllrd03

OP

4

Original post

by Anonymous

Is the accommodation that’s not in the castle still nice?

We have a really wide variety of accommodation - all of which you can see examples of on the @applytocastle instagram highlight! Most first year rooms are single beds with shared bathrooms, and are often quite small, but it's sort of the price you pay to be based right in the centre of Durham. Some ensuitesand larger rooms are available in self-catered accom, and a few rooms like this are available in catered accom, however that is usually reserved for those with medical need for them. All catered accommodation is within a 2 minute walk of the Castle. Castle rooms are gorgeous, but there are lots of stairs, and most rooms are shared for freshers in Castle Walls, so bear that in mind!

Reply 9

Anonymous #2

Thank you! I just looked and they all look amazing! I’m assuming this will be a no but can’t hurt to ask- is there anyway to increase your chance of getting into castle?
Also I’m really interested in the Castle Thatre Company, do they regularly take people from other colleges? I know you said sometimes and I’m asking because their shows really align with my experience as I have a background in Shakespeare!
Thank you so much for posting this thread! It’s so helpful!

Reply 10

DurhamRep Rosie

Official Rep

8

Original post

by Anonymous

Thank you! I just looked and they all look amazing! I’m assuming this will be a no but can’t hurt to ask- is there anyway to increase your chance of getting into castle?
Also I’m really interested in the Castle Thatre Company, do they regularly take people from other colleges? I know you said sometimes and I’m asking because their shows really align with my experience as I have a background in Shakespeare!
Thank you so much for posting this thread! It’s so helpful!

Hi there!

Unfortunately, there aren't any ways of increasing your chances of getting into Castle - Durham University college allocations aim for a balance of student types across all colleges, taking preferences into account, but also striving to create diverse communities. In my experience, I didn't rank colleges and was allocated St Aidans (which at the time I knew nothing about) and now adore! Don't worry if you don't get allocated your first choice, as all colleges are great. ☺️

From what I know, you can join the Castle Theatre Company (CTC) at Durham University even if you are not a member of Castle College - while CTC is the official theatre company of University College, it is part of the wider Durham Student Theatre. 😄

I hope this helps,
-Rosie (DU Representative)

Ask me about University College Durham (AKA Castle)

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