When I came to Durham it was with the mindset that I was only there to do a degree; university was a rung on the career ladder and nothing more. Soon after arriving, though, I began to see Durham as my new home and the welcome I found at Aidan's definitely played a large part in that.
Perhaps the best thing about St. Aidan's is that students and staff alike work hard to make it such a good environment - there's a real sense of community, and one that's diverse enough for everyone to find their place in it. My original application to Durham was 'open' but after 4 years as an undergraduate, Aidan's was my first and only choice for my postgrad year, and I'll always look back on my time there with fondness.
Alex Eccles, Graduate
When I came to Durham to start my PhD, I was worried that my life would be taken over by work, not only because of my workload, but because I didn't really know anyone and therefore had nothing else to do! However, the first night of moving into Aidan's college, there was a knock at the door. Three members of the Aidan's SCR (Senior Common Room; a body of postgraduates and Mentors which represent the senior members of college), came round to see if I wanted to join them and some other new members in the pub for dinner and drinks to get to know everyone. This just epitomises college life in Aidan's. Both SCR and the undergraduate JCR members have a very special relationship, making college life a great experience.
The bar and other social spaces are centrally located on College and the senior common room is exclusive to members of the SCR, complete with magazines, TV, projector, DVD player, tea, coffee and other discounted beverages. It is a great place to relax and socialise. Aidan's is a modern college with modern amenities and is only a short walk into town. Since becoming a member of Aidan's college, it's clear I made the right choice about where to spend my postgraduate life.
Simon Cork, PhD Neuroscience
