Freshers’ Reps

These are the people who have organised the events for Welcome and Orientation Week and will be around throughout to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact any of them before coming to Durham as they are all more than happy to help.


Introduction from your Senior Freshers’ Reps, Emma and Jacob:

Hi everyone, congratulations on your results and welcome to Mary’s! 

I am so excited to be one of your Head Freshers Representatives (Freps!) this year and can’t wait for a great freshers week. We have been working hard all summer to come up with events that will hopefully make settling in at Mary’s a little bit easier, with plenty of options from club nights, to sports sessions, to mario kart tournaments, we’re sure there will be something for everyone. I am so passionate about making sure all of you feel welcome and want to help each of you try and find your place at Marys, I am so jealous of all of you starting your time here and hope you enjoy joining as much as I did.

A bit about me: I’m going into my third year studying Accounting and Finance, a degree which I have loved so far (which may sound surprising!) and am looking forward to completing at the end of this year. I am very involved with college life, which has included me holding 2 exec positions this year – Head Frep and Publicity & Communications Officer. Alongside this I am a very involved member of SMCNC (Mary’s Netball Club), Mary’s Dance and Foot of the Hill (Mary’s Theatre). As well as this, I have also been involved in lots of other Durham Student Theatre productions as cast and part of the creative team (my favourite role at the moment being choreographer!). By now you have probably realised that I’m quite a keen bean!

I can’t wait for you to see what Mary’s has to offer and hope all of you enjoy not only freshers week, but all of your time at Mary’s. Please feel free to email me, or stop me for a chat if you have any questions/want to say hi. See you soon!

 

Hi Everyone! Welcome to Mary’s, I cannot express my excitement to welcome you all to the best college in Durham, you are going to have the best three years of your life here.

First of let me introduce myself, my name is Jacob, or J, my pronouns are he/they and I am one of your Head Freps alongside Emma. We have been working all summer to make sure that your freshers week is one to remember! 

A little about me, I am a third year Anthropology student from sunny Surrey, and I have been super involved with all things college in my two years so far! 

Last year I was the LGBTQ+ Representative  for Mary’s, planning a pride formal, taking marys within the durham pride parade with our banners and so much more! I was also the Co-President of Foot of the Hill Theatre Company, Mary’s own theatre company last year, which I absolutely loved! We put on six shows throughout the year and we encourage Mary’s students to get involved. Alongside FHTC, this year I am on the Durham Student Theatre Executive Committee, overseeing all of the theatre companies in Durham. I have also directed, produced and performed throughout my time here, so any questions about theatre, music or performing arts in Mary’s or within the wider University please ask me! 

We have so much planned for your freshers week, from pub trips, club nights, movie nights, bongos bingo, craft days and so much more! I encourage you all to get involved, I know freshers week can be daunting and seem a lot, trust me I felt that too when I was joining, but take time and trust the process! Give everything a go, university is the chance to start fresh and try something new and explore your interests, old or new, alongside your degree!

I remember my freshers week as if it was yesterday, I was nervous, excited and a little scared but I left my first year at Marys with some of my best friends for life! You will soon realise why we are seen as the friendliest and most welcoming college in the university! Just remember to go at your own pace and if you need some time to yourself do not be afraid to take it! You have all year to be a silly fresh!

 


Introduction from your Senior International Students’ Reps, Asanté and Randi:

Hello everyone! I’m Asanté, a second year Mechanical Engineering student and your Senior International Students Representative along with the amazing Randi Holwerda. Together, we are super excited to continue and improve the international community here at Mary’s. This year we are introducing English Conversational Classes as a chill opportunity to improve your informal dialogue skills. I am committed to making these classes a safe space where confidence in English speaking makes living in Durham a less daunting and more comfortable experience as well as enabling you to express yourself sociably in English. I am looking most forward to establishing connections with new international students during int fresher’s week. I understand how overwhelming it feels to be a student studying abroad so if you are in need of a friendly chat or advice about things like setting up a UK bank account for example, I am always happy to help during and after fresher’s week! Feel free to message me on social media or at asante.gantsho@durham.ac.uk  

 

I’m Randi Holwerda (she/her), an international student from Denmark studying English Literature and Im very excited to be one of your International Students’ Representatives this year! I have enjoyed my first year in Durham and at Mary’s a lot, feeling especially welcomed when I arrived in International Fresher’s Week! This year, I will be one of the International Head Freps and I am very excited to welcome new international students to Mary’s with lots of fun activities! I know that it can be quite intimidating when coming here as an international student. On top of moving further away from home, you are also moving to a whole other country and in many cases having to speak a different language on a daily basis as well as figuring out admin stuff in this foreign country. With Asanté, the other international rep, I will hold admin drop-ins throughout the year to help with any questions international students might have. We are also starting an English conversational group in college, where everyone can come together in a safe environment to practice their language skills by talking and listening. Finally, we want to have fun activities throughout the year, like the international food fair in college and small social gatherings. Everyone is welcome, whether you’re international or curious about a different culture and our aim is to make international students feel included in the community that is Mary’s. Coming to the UK, I thought that I was going to meet mainly British people, but I have actually made friends that are both international and British and am very grateful for this as it has given me a great insight into different cultures as well as my own. Studying here in Durham, at Mary’s with friends from all kinds of backgrounds means that I am learning so much more than just my degree and I hope other international students can have similar experiences! I am sharing my role as international rep with Asanté, whom I met less than a year ago, but I am already incredibly excited to be doing this with her! Together we represent different cultures and countries and we can’t wait to get to know more! We are both full of ideas, energy and motivation to make sure that everyone is having the best time and we are so so excited to share them with you all!! 


Freshers’ Reps (‘Freps’)


Bee Wilkes, 3rd year, English Literature

Hi everyone!! I’m Bee and I’m in my 3rd year at Durham, studying English Literature. I am super excited to welcome you all to Marys; the college deemed by many as the friendliest college! As Senior Welfare Officer this year, I will be doing my utmost to uphold this incredible and supportive atmosphere. I will be working alongside my fellow Senior Welfare Officer, Pip, as well as our wonderful assistants, Emily, Niamh, and Saachi.

As Senior Welfare Officers this year, Pip and I will be running the WAM (Welfare at Mary’s) committee, including organising various informative campaigns, chilled out events, trips, and plenty of snacks, all to support the welfare of everyone at Mary’s. 

Starting University is an incredible opportunity for new experiences, yet we recognise it can be daunting. I can remember just how terrified I was on my first night in college, but I very soon felt comfortable and settled due to the welcoming atmosphere of Marys, and the fact that everyone else was in the same boat! 

I will be around a lot during freshers week, as will the rest of the WAM team, so please do come and have a chat. If you feel like you need some support, we can offer you signposting to help you access whatever you need, as well as just being friendly faces around college that you can talk to about anything and everything! Us and the rest of the Freshers Reps are here to answer all your questions!


Niamh Williams, 2nd year, CHSS

Hey everyone! Massive congratulations for getting into Durham, and for choosing arguably the best college, Marys! I am Niamh (she/her) and I am a second year studying CHSS, specifically Sociology and Anthropology, and I am from Bridgend, in South Wales.

I am so excited to meet you all, and to contribute to the incredible frep team, who will ensure you guys get the best freshers week possible. I am also a part of the WAM team this year, acting as the assistant female welfare officer, so feel free to come along to any of the welfare drop in sessions, welfare is a huge priority here at Marys, and we all are here if anyone wants to chat about anything! Likewise, Marys has an incredible theatre company that I am proud to be a part of and this year get to a member of the exec, as the welfare and inclusivity Officer! Foot of the Hill Theatre Company aim to be as inclusive as possible and place great emphasis on Marys priority, this creates the perfect atmosphere for newbies or already lovers of theatre to find their passion within DST. Lastly, I am the secretary for Marys Working Class and Low Income, which is a new society created this year, to try and ease the social and economic pressure which is attached to coming to what appears as such an intimidating university. I am always here to talk or email about anything which you guys may be worried about and no concern is silly, we all want you to enjoy your first year as much as possible! I know freshers week can be scary, meeting lots of new people and adjusting to life away from home, but we as Freps are here to support you, and have also been through it, so we can provide any advice needed. I am so excited for you guys to come to Mary’s; it truly has made my university experience so far incredible. I have made some of best friends and have really grown as a person due to the acceptance and community feel at Marys. My advice would be to go with the flow, try new things but please remember it’s okay to take breaks and to get plenty of sleep. You have the whole of your first year to explore Durham, so take time for yourself and most importantly enjoy being a fresher!


Saachi Bajaj, 2nd year, Accounting & Finance

Hey everyone! Congrats on getting into Durham and welcome to Mary’s (arguably the best college!!). I’m Saachi (She/her) and I’m a second year studying accounting and finance from NW London. I’m also your assistant welfare-at-Marys livers-out representative, so if you need any help over freshers week I’m here to talk to. Whether you are living out this year, have any questions or concerns about living out next year or need someone to talk to about adjusting to living away from home you can always come chat to me. This year I’m also secretary of Marys theatre company: Foot of the Hill Theatre Company, which puts on many shows throughout the year from comedies to musicals, which has Marys priority, so if you have an interest in trying out anything to do with theatre, whether it be producing, directing or acting its a perfect way to start! Freshers week can be nerve racking, i was so nervous last year going into it but it didn’t last long thanks to all the friendly, amazing people I met. Don’t forget everyone’s in the same boat, so have as much fun as you can, you have the entire year to be a ‘silly fresh’! Remember to look after yourself and take breaks if you need to, first year isn’t just the first week. Make sure to take advantage of the amazing opportunities Mary’s and Durham have to offer and have a wonderful freshers week! 😉


Emily Hopper, 3rd year, Geography

Hi there and welcome to the Mary’s! I’m Emily (she/her), a third year Geography student. I’m from a small town in Staffordshire in the West Midlands, but as for many of us, Durham has become a special place in my heart. The collegiate system is so unique and I’m so glad you’ll get to experience everything Mary’s has to offer!

I am one of your Welfare at Mary’s (WAM) assistants for this year. Freshers’ week and first year in general are super busy and fun but can also be an emotionally intense time so the WAM team is here to listen to any concerns or worries you have – no issue is too big or small!

I work at the Mary’s toastie bar a couple of times a week so if you’re feeling peckish after dinner come down from 8:30-10:30pm for one of our delicious toasties! I am also part of Mary’s rowing club which is super unique in that most members learn to row completely from scratch as a beginner. I’d really recommend giving it a go if you want to pick up a new sport.

Finally, Freshers week can be very nerve-wracking as you move away from home and are thrown into making new friends. It is both a unique and exciting time, but also emotional and exhausting. I’d encourage you to put yourself out there but also make sure to take care of yourself and others! Remember WAM is always here for you too when you need. :))


Alvi Lindborg-Koh, 3rd year, Classical Civilisations

Hi guys! I’m Alvi (she/her) – a finalist (eeek!) studying classical civilisations from Singapore and Sweden – and I am really looking forward to getting to know you all! First off, I want to just say congrats to you for getting into Durham, and of course, Mary’s specifically – it really is a beautiful place to have the chance to live in, and I hope you’re excited to experience what amazing things Durham has in store for you!

As an international student, I initially found it challenging to acclimate to both Durham and England in general. Moving across the world is a scary thing, and it comes with its struggles of homesickness, culture shock, and don’t even get me started on how much missing the food back home hits :(. However (and this goes for all of you not just internationals), the friends you will make in Mary’s and the environment of Durham will never fail to remind you of why you moved here in the first place – whether it be for its academics, the people, or just generally the ~vibe~, you will find your people and place, and I promise you, Durham will start to feel like home before you know it. And of course, I am always here for a cup of tea and a chat <3

There are so many groups and societies that you can be a part of. Most of my involvement in societies has been within DST (durham student theatre) and DUOS (the orchestral society), for which I am now the Publicity Officer, so if you have any questions about the music scene on Durham, send them my way! on top of this, I am a Durham Student Ambassador, so I run lots of tours, assist in school visits and UCAS fairs, work on-site events, and more –  basically my job is to nerd out about the university :)))

No doubt, you will have heard the term ‘silly fresh’ (and you better get used to it..!) but let me give you some advice so you don’t get called it too often..

  1. This is cliche but oh so true: try new things. Sports, hobbies, societies, whatever catches your eye. First year is really the best time for new experiences, make sure to use the time you have wisely!
  2. Put yourself out there, make friends with people in other colleges, societies, and more – Durham is rife with fascinating people from all walks of life, and it is so worth getting to know as many as you can!
  3. Don’t force yourself to do things you aren’t comfortable doing. This almost goes without saying, but I just wanted to remind you that you need to do what makes you happy and comfortable, and at the end of the day, your mental health comes first.
  4. GET A GOOD COAT. I CANNOT STRESS THIS ENOUGH.
  5. Finally, don’t take yourself too seriously. The uni experience is truly unique and relish every moment you can.

Sending you all lots of Mary’s love,

Alvi ❤️


Shannon Hill, 3rd year, Biosciences

Hi everyone! Congratulations on getting to Durham and welcome to St. Mary’s College, I hope you’re all as excited for fresher’s week as I am! My name is Shannon, and I’m a third year biosciences student from Northumberland. I’m also your current Working Class and Low Income Representative so please don’t hesitate to stop me for a chat or to ask any questions. 

Moving away from home and into a completely new environment can be really daunting but hopefully all of our events during Fresher’s will help to introduce you to our friendly family at Mary’s and get to know your new home and fellow students. I’m also involved with LGBTQ+ Soc which put on some amazing events throughout the year, and am one of the new Co-Presidents of Mary’s theatre society, Foot of the Hill (the best college theatre company in Durham, not that I’m biased at all). If you have any questions about any of these societies or just want to come and have a nerdy theatre chat feel free!


Ollie Karmel, 2nd year, Geography

Hey guys,

Welcome to Marys (by far the best college!!!) and congrats on achieving your grades for Durham!!! My name is Ollie (he/him) and I am a second year studying geography from London. I hope you all have an amazing freshers week and I can’t wait for you to experience the awesome uni life. From the start of my first year, I made sure to try as many new things as possible. This ranged from mixed lacrosse to rounders, two sports that I now love and can’t wait to play again in 2nd year, as well as being part of Mary’s football and hockey. Taking part in these different Mary’s societies is a great way to meet new people in your year as well as in the years above so I definitely recommend throwing yourself into several Mary’s societies. Also, mini plug for rounders – I am the Mary’s rounders co-cap for this year so I hope to see many of you coming along for matches in summer term!!! Lastly, remember to say hello to the lovely dinner ladies – especially Tracy – who I am sure you will get to know very quickly with her great chat and generous portions of food!!! I understand that fresher’s week is a daunting prospect but take it one step at a time and remember there is still the rest of the year to go. I can’t wait to meet you all and I hope you have an amazing year as a fresher!!!


Matt Smales, 2nd year, Maths

Hi, I’m Matt, and first of all, welcome to St Mary’s! I’m really excited to be a frep this year, and I’m looking forward to making your fresher’s week one to remember. My pronouns are he/him and I’m a 2nd year Maths student. I come from South East London, and I loved living at Mary’s in my first year, as well as being in such a historic city, and I can’t wait to be here for another few years. Mary’s puts on a lot of great events throughout the year so look forward to those! I’m a Vice-Chancellor’s Scholar, specifically for music, and I’m involved in a lot of classical ensembles at the university, so if anyone has questions about the university music scene I’d be happy to help. I’m also a big football fan, with Chelsea being the team I support. It’s normal to feel nervous coming into Fresher’s week, I know I did, but get involved with the activities you like the sound of and you’ll have a great time. It’ll be a fantastic week to start a fantastic year at Durham’s best college – St Mary’s!


Ibrahim Sarfaz, 2nd year, Accounting & Finance

Hi Everyone! I’m Ibra (he/him) and I’m from Kent and I’m a 2nd year studying Accounting and Finance. I’m really looking forward to meeting all you guys and settling you all in to life at Mary’s. My biggest piece of advice I would give is to put yourself out there! Don’t be afraid to make the first move and speak to other new freshers, everyone is in the same boat and throw yourself into everything, you may pick up a new hobby or society that you might really enjoy.

In college, I have been involved with a variety of sports including football, mixed lacrosse and rounders. Next year I’m taking on the exec roles of football treasurer and lacrosse social secretary which I’m really looking forward to. I played lacrosse and rounders for the first time at university and have really enjoyed it! It’s such a chill atmosphere, where anyone of any level of ability can play and have a great time.

Other than sports, there is so much else you can get involved with at Mary’s, whether it’s getting involved with music and drama and joining societies such as Basement Jazz or the Foot of the Hill Theatre company, or even taking part in quiz nights which occur weekly at the bar; there is so much to get involved with, whatever your interests or hobbies are, there is something for you! I’m excited to meet all of you very soon!


Mark Boughton, 4th year, Geography

Hi there!! 

Firstly congratulations for getting into Durham and coming to literally the best college!!

I’m Mark, a final year geography student and I’m from Kent!! My Durham years have been absolutely amazing and you have the most amazing 3 years ahead of you – what I’d do to relive it all!! 

I’ve been highly involved in college my entire time at Durham including a lot of sports, ball planning and JCR welfare roles. I am the Vice President of Mary’s Boat Club this and love to promote the sport within Mary’s and get people rowing, secondly I’ve been involved in the JCR as the Disabilities Rep and helped out with a lot of event planning! This will be my fourth year at Mary’s, so if you need any help or anyone to speak to, I know Mary’s like the back of my hand at point and happy to help with anything any fresher needs!!!

Remember this is your freshers and make it what you want it to be, I wish you all the BEST of luck and looking forwards to what the year has to come!!


Henry Wheatley, 2nd year, Engineering

Hi everyone! I hope you’re all having a great summer and looking forward to starting with us here in Durham very soon. You’ll soon be very glad that you’ve chosen Mary’s! My name is Henry (he/him). I am a second year Engineering student from Exeter, effectively living in the opposite corner of the country (so I know a thing or two about horrid journeys). I’m really excited to be on the Frep team this year, ready to welcome the new generation of Marians. The whole experience of moving in in September was instantly a highlight of my year – it only happens once so I hope we can help you all make the most of it. Another few highlights also come from the fantastic events that are put on by the JCR, especially in the final term. Mary’s Day is something to look forward to (even if it ends up being in the rain again)! My biggest piece of advice is to really not be afraid to throw yourself into the deep end. If you don’t enjoy something you’ll never have to go again. And on the plus side, Mary’s is very inclusive so maybe even try something new. After all, you’ll never get as much time as you do in first year. As Mixed Lacrosse and Men’s Badminton Captain this year (both sports I’d never played before) I hope to see some of you soon!! And for my final piece of advice, Urban Oven is better than Paddy’s.


 

Courtney Davison, 3rd year, Law

Hiya everyone, congrats on making it to Durham and into Mary’s!! We’re so excited to have you joining the Mary’s family and will do all we can to make this transition as smooth and fun as possible! 

My name is Courtney (she/her) and I am a third year law student! I was born in the UK but grew up in South Africa in a place called Kosi Bay which is in the middle of nowhere and right on the SA boarder with Mozambique. 

I am so excited to be freping for you and to show you around Durham, I spend most holidays here and work in town. I am also co-social sec and welfare officer for Mary’s dance and love anything creative and fun! 

I’m a very sociable person and you are welcome to come to me for a chat about anything and everything. 

Durham has so much to offer for all kinds of interests! I felt very overwhelmed at first as I came from overseas and knew nothing about Durham and had no one I knew at Uni, so I understand how daunting it can be at first, but there is a place for everyone! So get excited and come with an open mind, you never know what might interest you or where you’ll find friends!


Eleanor Betts, 2nd year, French & German

Hey folks!

Congratulations on your results and a warm welcome to Durham University! And an even warmer welcome to St Mary’s College – we can’t wait to have you here!

I’m Eleanor (she/her) and I’m a second year from York studying French and German.

I understand how daunting it can be to come to university and trust me, everyone else feels the same. We, on the Frep Team, are here to help! If you have any questions, worries or would like someone to talk to, grab one of us wearing a purple jumper and ask away! We want to make sure that you are having fun and feeling supported throughout Freshers Week and your time at Mary’s.

There are lots of opportunities to join extra-curriculars in college and the university – check out the other team-members to see their interests in theatre, music, sports and so much more. In my case, I have joined a few societies, ranging from Eurovision to Taylor Swift so feel free to ask about those! I am also the JCR Chair which means I’ll be running the JCR meetings and elections. The JCR is a student-led organisation that runs sports, societies, balls, formals committees and more. You will all be able to sign up for membership, giving you the chance to get involved in these groups and events.

If you have any questions at all, come and say hi during the week or in the meantime send me an email: eleanor.betts@durham.ac.uk!

See you all in September!


Eleanor Wigglesworth, 2nd year, Natural Sciences

Hi everyone and a massive welcome to St Mary’s, undoubtebly the best college in Durham! I’m Ellie (she/her) and am just about to start my second year studying Natural sciences – biology and psychology. I come from just outside of Manchester and absolutely love everything about Mary’s!

At the start of my uni experience, I’m not afraid to admit that I was incredibly apprehensive. However, college sport has definitely played a massive part in making Mary’s feel like home. Marys netball is without a doubt the best club in Durham (especially C team) and I’ve also delved into lacrosse, rugby(very briefly) and rowing as a complete beginner, building friendships both within and across year groups, as well as opening up many leadership opportunities. Mary’s also has a college family system which helps make the start of uni less daunting. Even getting college married is just one of the many Mary’s traditions I’m sure you will grow to love, alongside matriculation, formals and balls which have been some of the highlights of my Mary’s experience so far.

A few bits of advice: if you don’t already have one, make sure you set up a facebook account for loads of college and society information. Bring a hat, scarf and gloves as its so easy to underestimate the coldness of Durham in winter. Finally, throw yourself into all opportunities and talk to everyone, as these are the best ways to get fully immersed in college life! 🙂


Emma Race, 2nd year, Psychology

Hey everyone! Congratulations on your place at Durham- and welcome to Mary’s! My name is Emma; I’m a second year Psychology student from Yorkshire and I’m so excited to be a frep this year. I hope we can make your fresher’s week the best ever!! This year, I would encourage you to immerse yourself in college life. Join all the societies. Go to the events. Make the most of your first year because it flies by! Everyone starts out feeling super nervous, but you’re all in the same boat. Just be sure to take time out for yourself and reach out if you need help. This year, I am Treasurer of Foot of the Hill, which is Mary’s own theatre company. We put on several shows throughout the year and there are so many ways to be involved, whether you’re on stage or behind the scenes. Please ask me about student theatre if it is something that interests you! Also, since my first year, I have been a Durham Student Ambassador, so please come to me with any wider university questions you may have and I can hopefully point you in the right direction! See you soon 🙂


 

Fan Wang, 4th year, Criminology

Hi everyone, I’m Fan (she/her), and I just returned from Oxford for my placement year. I’ll be completing my Criminology degree this year! I can’t wait to meet you all at Freshers’ Week as one of the International Freps. I am originally from Hong Kong, but I’ve been studying in the UK since 2015. Whether or not it might be your first year studying overseas, I am happy to answer any concerns you have in your mind. 

One of my biggest highlights about studying at Durham is the societies and friendships that developed over time; it genuinely makes the entire university life enjoyable and exciting besides studying! My most favourite thing about Mary’s is the location and environment. The campus is located in the middle of nearly every university building, colleges and city centre. Mary’s not only has a lovely cathedral view but there’s also cherry blossom tree during springtime! 

I understand Freshers’ Week can be very exciting but also exhausting (as every Freps experienced it as a fresher). One of my biggest takeaways for you all would be don’t be afraid to start conversations since other people might also be as shy as you are! Also, don’t forget to enjoy and have fun as much as possible!


Georgie Hubbard, 2nd year, Liberal Arts

Hey guys! My name is Georgie (she/her), and I am so excited to welcome you to Mary’s (otherwise known as the best place in Durham), this September. I am a second year student doing a Liberal Arts degree in English Literature and History, and I have also loved being involved in Mary’s netball and hockey during my time here so far. I am also one of the Presidents for Durham Gospel Choir this coming year, and so I would love to chat to you about the sports and music societies that college life and the wider university has to offer – there is a lot of it!! I loved getting involved in lots of different societies and events in my first term especially, because I got to meet so many different groups of people in Mary’s from different years with similar interests to mine. A piece of advice I would love to pass on to you guys is not to be afraid to try new things. Whether that may be sport, drama, music, or even board games society, go for things that you may not have thought about before, and enjoy the freedom of a fresh start at university where you can discover or rediscover things you love doing. During this huge transition period, it is so important to find some joy in what you do every day – as a frep team, we are so excited to help you start this journey!!


Hannah Tunnicliffe, 3rd year, Liberal Arts

I’m Hannah and I’m in 3rd year studying liberal arts with Spanish, music and history. I can’t wait to meet you all and help you settle in to the best college in Durham! My biggest piece of advice to anyone coming to Mary’s is to just try everything. If you’re curious about a society, give it a go! There are so many new experiences to try, and who knows where you might find your people. It’s such a welcoming environment and you’ll never be judged for trying something different. 

So far in college I’ve been very involved in the mixed lacrosse team and will be Co-club captain this year. Lax is a great sport to start at uni as a beginner, especially at college level because most people playing also won’t have done it before. We have so much fun and don’t take it too seriously, but still manage to do pretty well in matches as a bonus. I’ve also worked at the college bar. I would definitely recommend trying to find work in college, at the bar or the toastie bar. It’s a great way to earn money without having to miss out on college life, as you’re right in the middle of it when you’re behind the bar. There is also a great theatre and music community at Mary’s which I’ve been pretty involved with. Foot of the Hill theatre company put on three shows every year, and whilst the standard is still really high, it encourages beginners to get involved which is unique. 

Whatever your interests are, there is something for you at Mary’s and I’m so excited to help you find it! See you soon 🙂


Helen Bate, 2nd year, Maths and Statistics

Hi, I’m Helen, a 2nd year Maths and Stats student from Devon. Mary’s is a lovely college – it’s so easy to get to know people, particularly at meals. I remember my friends and I started a group chat and kept adding people to it throughout Fresher’s Week; by the end of the year we were still close knit and getting meals together!

Mary’s also has a huge number of sports and societies running. Last year I was a Volunteering Rep, which included organising Mary’s Volunteering Day, and was/am highly involved with the Christian Union (at both college and uni level). Whatever your beliefs are or aren’t, you’re so welcome to hang out with us and learn a bit about what we believe – I promise we are a super friendly group of people!

Final word of advice for Fresher’s Week – please don’t stress! There is no pressure on you to try everything or meet everyone at the very beginning – for most sports and societies they’re still just as happy to welcome you in later weeks, and friendships will be built throughout the year. Spoiler alert, we also have a Refreshers Fair in January to remind you of our sports and socs, so don’t worry if you want to give yourself time and space between trying new things or later decide you want to make more friends.

I can’t wait to meet you all in September – have a wonderful summer till then 🙂


Kate Broekman, 2nd year, English & History

Hi! Congratulations on getting into Durham and choosing the incredible college that is Marys! I’m Kate (she/her), a second year studying joint honours English and History. I’m half-Dutch half-American, but I grew up in Liverpool. I’m so thankful to be able to frep for you this year! My first year at Marys was a whirlwind of experience – I’ve done netball, found a great community in our LGBTQIA+ society, worked in a college theatre production and picked up running with our running club on far too early Saturday mornings. Although the first year at Marys was unbelievable, it was fresher’s week that was just as special. The week can be intense and exhausting, but it is also a wonderful time of making friends, finding your rhythm, and falling in love with Marys and Durham! I can promise you that everyone is willing to meet other people and talk – I think freshers week was the only time where people went to 8am breakfast just to socialise, so be excited! Marys is the friendliest college, so even if you’re shy or nervous (which is totally expected and understandable!) I promise you that you’ll be welcomed with open arms. I’m also Head Teikyo Representative for this year, so I’ll work with incoming Japanese students who are studying at Marys, and I’m beyond excited to introduce you to Durham, since I know how hard it is to move to a new country.

I’m super excited to meet you all this year and hear about what you’re looking forward to the most, your fears, and everything Marys! Enjoy freshers week and first year!


Katrina Lai, 2nd year, General Engineering

Hi! I am Katrina (she/her), a second year General Engineering student from China. Firstly, I want to applaud you for all the effort you have put in these past years, which reflected on your amazing results. WELL DONE and welcome to our lovely Mary’s community!!! 

As an evangelist of physics, I felt sceptical about the proofless ‘rumour’ of Mary’s being the friendliest college before I came. However, I soon realized that it is a valid statement when my heart melted by those genuine smiles, and when I felt flattered by the overwhelming kindness. Mary’s is an inclusive place, hence, be authentic, be brave, and you will find friends of your kind soon enough. 

Moreover, there are many different societies in Mary’s for you to explore. My advice – try everything during the fresher’s week and narrow down your interests to fit your course schedule. I joined squash society with no experience and ended up really enjoying it. Many college societies are free, so why not fully exploit it! I am also working at the dining hall, so if you have questions about the college food etc., I would love to talk. 

Recalling back the memory of my first year in UK, I completely understand the dilemma of a language barrier for international students, so you are very welcome to chat with me in Chinese. Nevertheless, don’t be afraid to speak in English, it is a very useful tool for interpreting different cultures and it can only be improved through practice. 

See you soon and have an amazing summer! 💗


Madeleine Grimmond, 2nd year, Geography

Hi everyone, my name is Maddy (she/her), a second year studying geography. I’m so excited to be joining the Frep team this year, to help guide you through your first week and make sure it’s a week to remember! I am the captain of Mary’s netball E-team, so if you are a beginner and fancy getting involved in one of the best Mary’s societies out there feel free to come chat to me about it (we also have great socials!). I’m also the vice president of the Durham Geography Society (DUGS) and working on the exec of the Durham Charity Fashion show (DUCFS), so if you fancy getting involved let me know;DUGS is open to all, not just geographers.

Freshers week can be very intense, but it is an exciting time when you get to meet some cool new people. Talk to everyone, but remember to take some time to yourself as well. Also remember there are a lot of people to come to if you have any issues. Freps are there to help and the college family system is great, my college mums have become some really close friends, so make the most of it. Have the best week and enjoy being a silly fresh, it’s truly the best 🙂


Olivia Smith, 2nd year, International Relations

Hey guys ! Biggest congratulations on starting your first year at Durham and at Mary’s – you should be SO proud of yourselves ! My name is Olivia (she/her), and I am a second year international relations student from the coast of northern ireland, so I know first hand how scary it is making a new start in a place far away from home, knowing absolutely nobody! although it seems daunting, take it as a new opportunity for a fresh start. Plus, at Mary’s, you’ll find yourself getting settled in straight away- trust me! I am very grateful and excited to be frepping this year, making sure from your first week at mary’s that you love it as much as I do. Throughout my time here so far, I’ve thrown myself into the societies here at Mary’s as much as physically possible- and you should too! I’ve been involved with Foot of the Hill theatre company throughout my first year. With it being Mary’s priority its been such an accessible way to get involved with musical theatre with a bunch of familiar faces involved. Furthermore it’s really important to get active, so I’ve gotten involved with Mary’s Yoga society! With weekly sessions, it’s been a great way to relax and to keep myself moving and mindful whilst still enjoying hectic college life. My biggest piece of advice to all incoming freshers is to keep maintaining a healthy work life balance at uni (which is so easy in a college like Mary’s with SO many inclusive, diverse societies on offer) as it will do BITS for your mental health and also enable you to meet the most amazing people you’ll find yourself having loads in common with.

Have the most most fun – we can’t wait to meet you all !!


Sadhika Gupta, 3rd year, Law

Hello everyone!! I’m Sadhika, a third-year law student from New Delhi, India.

A huge congratulations for getting into Durham and an even bigger one for becoming a part of Mary’s. 

The different sports and societies Mary’s offers ensures everyone can find something they enjoy and meet other Marians. I was club-captain of Mary’s Women’s Football Club last year, and  some of my favourite nights at Mary’s in my first year involved playing darts with the B team. The International Committee was super helpful in my first year to help make my transition to Mary’s as smooth as possible and they organise events throughout the year, so keep an eye out for that too! Whether it’s being dedicated to a sport or just being a social member of a society, the list of things you can get involved in at Mary’s is endless. There is something for everyone. 

Freshers’ week is an exciting and action-packed week. While the plethora of events and opportunities available to you may seem daunting in the beginning, don’t feel pressurised at all.

Take your time to explore what suits your needs and what appeals to you. Mary’s boasts of a strong support and welfare system. No issue is big or small and all of us in the frep team are here to make your transition to college as smooth as possible. 

In the meantime, feel free to email me get in touch about anything on your mind. 

Can’t wait to see you all super soon 🙂

Saddie x


Zoe Kaye, 4th year, French & Spanish

Hi Everyone! My name is Zoe (she/her), I am a Fourth Year French and Spanish Student. I have been on my Year Abroad in France and Spain for the past year, so I am very excited to get back involved in college life and welcome you all to Mary’s. I am also this year’s Year Abroad Representative, although it may be a bit further down the line for you as freshers, I am more than happy to answer any questions you may have about going on a Year Abroad. I am also Club Captain of Mary’s Hockey this year, we have one women’s team and one men’s team, and it is open to everyone regardless of ability!I also work at Mary’s Bar which although it has a reputation for being on the smaller side, it is a great place to work at alongside your studies.

My advice to you would be to make the most of Fresher’s week and try and get involved as much as possible! However, it can also be an overwhelming week, so do take time off when you need and don’t stress if it’s not what you made it out to be, you still have the rest of the year to find your people and settle into life at Mary’s.


Evelyn Church, 2nd year, Philosophy & Theology

Hi everyone! Welcome to Durham and especially to Mary’s the friendliest and best college!! Congratulations on your place! My name is Evelyn, and my pronouns are (she/her). I am a second year studying philosophy and theology and I’m so excited to be frepping this year! 

Starting university can be such a daunting time, I was definitely super nervous before coming. However, the college systems means getting involved and making the most of activities available is so easy and doing so helped me meet some of my closest friends. Within college I play lacrosse and am part of Mary’s yoga, two things I’d never done before. I am also part of Mary’s netball and captain of the d team. Netball is such a big thing at Mary’s with six teams including a men’s one and such a great way to meet people. I would you to get involved in as much as you can if it’s something you already love or something you’ve never tried before. 

I hope you have a great freshers week and first year. It can be a pretty intense week and a stressful time but also the start of something so exciting and the first opportunity to meet some of the people you will become closest too at university!


Charlotte Walton, 2nd year, History