This year, we will be holding Post Offer Visit Days on 14th February, 20th March and 26th April. This is your opportunity to visit the colleges, as well as spend time in your departments, and get a feel for which college you’d like to apply to. The morning will be designated to college visits, where you’ll have the chance to take tours, meet staff and students, and ask lots of questions!

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Meet your Post Offer Visit Day reps for 2024!

 

Ellie Wigglesworth, Senior Post Offer Visit Day Representative

Hi. I’m Ellie, a 2nd year studying Natural Sciences- Biology and Psychology and I’m super excited to be your Senior POVD rep! Firstly, a massive congratulations on getting your offers for Durham, hopefully we can give you just a tiny glimpse into the wonderful university experience that both Durham and St Mary’s can offer.

I love absolutely everything about Mary’s and it could not have provided a more welcoming, friendly and fun environment, especially for someone who was incredibly apprehensive at the start of my uni experience. College sports definitely played a massive part in me finding my feet. Mary’s netball is without a doubt the best club in Durham, especially C team and I’ve also delved into lacrosse, rugby and rowing as a complete beginner, revelling in the friendly atmosphere of college-level sport. From wacky socials, leadership opportunities and building friendships both within and across year groups, the Mary’s community never fails to make you feel at home. Matriculation, formals and balls were all completely foreign concepts to me when I began my journey at Durham but now they’re some of the highlights of my Mary’s experience so far, which we can’t wait to share with you all!

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Zoe Kaye, 4th year, French & Spanish

Hi everyone! I’m Zoe, a fourth-year French and Spanish student here at Mary’s! Congratulations on getting an offer from Durham, we are so excited to show you around our amazing college! Mary’s has so much to offer as a college, from sports and societies to great events in college, and it’s such a lovely place to live in for your first year. In my time at uni so far, I have got involved with college hockey and netball, I also work at our college bar which has been a great way to have a part-time job alongside studying. The collegiate system means you can get involved in so many different aspects of your university life, and there is something for everyone.

 

 

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Brian Sng, 1st year, Physics & Astronomy

Hiya! I am Brian from Malaysia, a first-year student studying Physics and Astronomy. Congratulations on securing a spot here in Durham – perseverance truly pays off! A bit about me. Astrophysics is my true passion. Delving into the underlying laws of nature and uncovering the mysteries of the grand universe is both my pursuit and joy. Being part of Durham University has been a fantastic opportunity to deepen my understanding, as our university offers a wealth of resources in the Billy B and other college libraries.

Now, let me tell you about one of my favourite spots in Durham – Observatory Hill. Just a stone’s throw away from St. Mary’s College, it’s not just a stargazing location; it’s where I’ve had the absolute best times with friends too! However, make sure you bring a coat along as it might be chilly up there. Starting a new chapter can be nerve-wracking, but fret not! You will discover a community in Durham that will warmly embrace you for who you are. Of course, we all had questions at the beginning. So, reach out to us, and we will be happy to answer all your questions.

Looking forward to seeing you all soon!

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Charlotte Hamilton, 2nd year, English Literature

I’m Charlotte and I am a second year English Literature student and I couldn’t recommend St Mary’s, and Durham in general, enough. The collegiate system really is one of the standout features of Durham and irrefutably the best way for you to throw yourself into all sorts – whether that is as a complete beginner or more experienced.

College sport has been one of the highlights for me. From co-captaining the tennis and women’s badminton team to taking up lacrosse and hockey as a complete beginner, it is through these sports that I have been able to meet people across all year groups. 

Beyond sport, there are a wealth of other societies in Mary’s – my uncontested favourite being Mary’s own Basement Jazz. Beyond this, I would say that the formals, balls and events have been one of the true highlights and signature of the unique Durham experience (particularly being able to perform in them!). Mary’s really does have something for everyone. One again, huge congrats on getting an offer, thoroughly looking forward to sharing it with you!

 

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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! 

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. 

 

Open days are an excellent opportunity for you to see what sets Mary’s apart from other colleges so make the most of it.

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

Can’t wait to see you all super soon – Saddie x

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Megan Le, 1st year, History

Hi! I’m Megan, a first year studying History. A massive congratulations on your offer for Durham, you should be so proud of yourselves! Me and the rest of the rep team are so excited to show you around Mary’s and give you a glimpse into the wonderful college experience here. Mary’s was my first choice as I heard it was the friendliest college, and whilst I did start to get nervous about going to Durham leading up to it, I can definitely say that Mary’s is truly filled with the loveliest people who quickly made me feel so much more settled in. What has made life here even more fulfilling and exciting is all the societies and events we have to offer. From getting involved in sports socials, SMC Yoga Society, and Mary’s Mixed Voices, to attending the various formals and balls we have in our beautiful college hall, Mary’s has added so much colour and vibrance to my Durham Experience and I know that everyone who ends up at here will have the best time. We hope you have a great time visiting us and we’ll see you back in September! 

 

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Annika Borrow, 1st year, PPE

Hey guys I’m Annika, a second year PPE student here at Marys from Manchester. Firstly well done for getting your offer! It still feels like yesterday when I got mine, and had no clue what amazing things were about to come! I would never have believed that half way through my degree I would be the president of a society, members of multiple sports, and belong to such an amazing community. Despite not playing much sport before uni, college sport has allowed me to play from a complete beginner level, make new friends (and dress slightly goofy every Wednesday). Marys has so much to offer, with its own toastie bar that I spend too much time in, as well as some amazing balls and formals. The community is one of a kind, there are people from all kinds of backgrounds here, and if I’ve not sold you already, we also have a college dog. I am so excited to meet many of you during the open days, and hope you love Marys just as much as I do!

 

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Louisa Wagstaff, 4th year, English Literature

Hi, I’m Louisa, a fourth year English student here at Mary’s and I would firstly like to say congratulations (!!) on getting an offer for Durham. My four years here have been a complete joy, from the friends I have made to all the opportunities and experiences I have had, and I am so excited for you, and jealous, that your journey in Durham is just beginning! I’m so glad you’re interested in coming to Mary’s because, from a completely unbiased perspective, it is the best college ;))) Mary’s is known as the friendliest college for good reason – every sport and society is so inclusive and everyone you meet, regardless of year group, is so supportive. Despite my questionable sporting abilities, I have been able to play netball and football (to varying degrees of success!) and have made so many great friends and memories through doing it. Formals, balls and Mary’s Day really make the college experience that bit more special. I can’t wait to meet you all very soon – Mary’s love, Louisa xxx

 

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Nick Fung, 2nd year, Chemistry

Congratulations on receiving an offer from Durham University! I’m Nick, a 2nd year chemistry student at St. Mary’s College. Back when I was doing my A-levels, I had the opportunity to walk around Durham’s campus during a visit day myself, and St. Mary’s stood out to me for its inviting and friendly atmosphere. I can tell you with surety now that it did not disappoint! 

In my first year, Mary’s climbing was a big part of my social life, with casual bouldering sessions each week and retreats to the toasties bars right after, marking the end of a satisfying day. On weekdays, I like to relax with friends in the dining hall after a long day of lectures; the kitchen staff have a genuine and friendly demeanour of Mary’s kitchen staff, and always generously provide extra portions at the end of each dinner session. Another major advantage of Mary’s is its convenient location near most academic departments and central facilities, which gives students like me the luxury of being able to wake up just 10 minutes before a morning lecture and still make it on time.  

 I’m sure that your college tour here at Mary’s will be very enjoyable and I hope to meet you all in September!

 

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Rowan Sutton, 2nd year, Psychology

Hey! I’m Rowan, a second year at Mary’s studying Psychology. Congratulations on getting an offer for Durham – I can’t wait for you to have a look around the city and our college and get a taste of what we have to offer! It can be an overwhelming decision to choose a university or college, but my top tip is to choose somewhere that feels like home – Mary’s has such a community spirit (and the location is right next to the science site), but all of us on the POVD team are here to help you choose the right place for you. In the time I’ve been at Mary’s and Durham it’s been so easy to try new activities. I’ve been able to try student theatre, rowing, be involved in a fashion show, and take on leadership roles within the LGBTQ+ society, all of which I’d never done before getting here. It’s so easy to get involved with anything, regardless of prior experience, and you never know what you will end up loving! I’m excited to be able to give you a sense of what Durham is like and hopefully I’ll get the chance to meet you all in September!

 

 

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Abigail Boye, 1st year, French & Spanish

Hiya, I’m Abigail, and I’m a first year student studying MLAC- French and Spanish- which I’m really enjoying! Well done for getting an offer to study at Durham- I hope that you feel proud because you should! I hope that during your visit, you get to experience the wonderful community of St Mary’s College and Durham university! I remember how I felt this time last year (I can’t believe how quickly the time has flown!), I was quite anxious and nervous that I wouldn’t fit in, or find my people and community, but honestly, I really couldn’t have been more wrong! I love St Mary’s College and its special and friendly atmosphere and people, which has created a home away from home for me. During my time here, I’ve already had so many amazing experiences and made so many memories with my friends, from socials, formals and even just general day to day occurrences, like our dining hall and room chats (my camera roll gallery is filling up fast). I’ve had the wonderful opportunity to try so many new activities, like netball (B team brilliance) and football for example which I’m rapidly improving at, and Mary’s dance which is a personal fav. With dance, we’ve already performed in 2 events which was a foreign concept to me before and have many more exciting events coming up soon. Mary’s is truly a place for everyone where you can try out all sorts of new activities, from college-level sport, to theatre, to music, and many more! We can’t wait to see you all in September and share these special experiences with you! 

 

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Naim Wermes, 2nd year, PPE

Hi! I’m Naim, from Germany and currently in my second year studying Philosophy, Politics & Economics at St Mary’s College in Durham! I’m so excited for you all to have gotten your offers from Durham University. I’ll be one of the people showing you around in Mary’s telling you all about the amazing experience that awaits you, when you hopefully come join us in September! 

It is very exciting  to be going to university, meeting loads of new people, new experiences, too many opportunities to count. During your visit, we will only be able to show you a fraction of what the Durham experience and especially what the best College – St Mary’s – has to offer. I fell in love with Mary’s because of the wonderful people – staff and students alike. It’s a gorgeous College and offers a great deal of opportunities, ranging from sports over music to theatre and a lot more! I encourage you to talk to students who are involved in something you might find interesting – they’ll be more than happy to tell you about their team or society. I can go on for hours talking about how great Basement Jazz is – Mary’s own function band! This only involves a tiny bias…

I am thrilled to meet you all and hope that we can make you fall in love with Durham and choose St Mary’s the same way all of us did!

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Oscar Randles, 1st year, Maths

Hi guys. I’m Oscar, a first year maths student from Ireland! Congratulations on getting your offers for Durham. I hope that the POVD team and I can give you an insight into the kind of institutions St Mary’s College and Durham are. Moving to Durham from Dublin I was incredibly nervous and had no idea what to expect. Little did I know that one term later I would have found a second family and a place that I am proud to call home. You may have heard by now that Mary’s is the kindest college, and that’s for good reason. In my experience whether it’s being reintroduced to swimming after a long injury with the college club, receiving guidance from my college parents or even just getting food in college, everything is done with a smile. There’s something for everyone here at Mary’s, whether you love dressing up and going to formals (as I do), wish to attend as many sports socials as possible in a week, or just want to watch trashy TV with friends, you will find your people here. I look forward to meeting you all and sharing this with you in September!

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Catherine Herring, 1st year, Theology & Religion

Hi, I’m Catherine, a first year studying Theology & Religion and a proud member of the best college (Mary’s!). Firstly, a huge well done on receiving your Durham offers. We are so excited to show you how amazing the Durham experience is! Something I love about the university is how unique it is. Not only does it feel like you’re living in the world of Harry Potter with matriculation and gowned formals, but we are one of the few universities that have a collegiate system. This has made it easy for me to build friendships with people in my year and in the many societies Mary’s has to offer. This is because at Mary’s, we pride ourselves on being inclusive and friendly which is embedded within our history. If you are feeling overwhelmed or nervous about university, I promise you that Mary’s is a place for everyone, and it becomes like a second home. It’s not just the highly acclaimed toastie bar that makes Mary’s awesome, but the people that make it special. Being a member of the college has shaped my university experience, and we all hope to share the Mary’s spirit with you very soon!

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Grace Pawson, 1st year, Primary Education

Hello! I’m Grace, a first year studying Primary Education. Firstly, a massive well done on getting an offer, you have done amazingly! I really hope that on your visits here you will get to experience what it is like to be a part of the community of St Mary’s College and the collegiate system of Durham Uni as a whole, it really does have something unique and special about it! I can remember feeling so nervous and completely clueless when I was in your position last year, but honestly being part of this community has been amazing. Even after just a term and a bit (which has gone by insanely fast!), I can see that it is so welcoming and friendly. Being part of Mary’s and getting involved in college has helped me so much with settling in. There really are so many opportunities to get involved, from dance to football to book clubs and everything in between, there is something for everybody to try. My personal favourites are Mary’s Dance and E Team Netball, they are both so fun and open to anyone wanting to give something new a try, regardless of experience (my year 8 netball skills have really been put to the test!). The Mary’s community really does have something special to offer, things like college families, formals and matriculation, that I had no idea existed before uni, all help with this. As do the daily routines of sitting with everyone for food in the dining hall or having warm drinks and room chats with friends, making it really feel like a home away from home. I really hope you enjoy exploring the options that Durham has to offer and we’ll hopefully see you in September so that we can share all of these exciting experiences with you!!

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Matt Smales, 2nd year

Hi, I’m Matt, and I’m a second year Maths student from South East London. 

My post offer visit day 2 years ago was the day I made Mary’s my top choice college, and I couldn’t have made that choice better. The college has a lovely welcoming atmosphere and I found settling in during Fresher’s Week to be really easy. I’ve met loads of fantastic people at Mary’s and made some amazing memories, hoping to make more as my time here goes on. Mary’s is a beautiful college and an amazing community that I have the pleasure being part of!

I’m involved with a lot of classical music at Durham, being a Vice Chancellor’s Music Scholar, but I’m also a massive football fan and love a night out. I’m buzzing to be a POVD rep so I can show you all the college I love, and why I do.

 

 

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Niamh Williams, 2nd year, Sociology & Anthropology

Hiya guys, I am Niamh (she/her) a second year sociology and anthropology student here at Mary’s. I cannot wait to meet you all and show you how great living as a student in Durham is! Within college, I am heavily involved with theatre, as the welfare and inclusivity officer of Foot of the Hill (Mary’s own theatre company), I love to act and direct shows, and get as many people involved as possible. Welfare is a super important priority here at Durham, and Mary’s has an exceptional student run service called ‘Welfare at Mary’s’, I am one of the welfare officers in WAM who run campaigns and events to try to ease the stress that student life can sometimes inevitably bring. Mary’s is a very upbeat and positive environment, which I cannot wait for you guys to see! Looking forward to welcoming you on the visit days 🙂

 

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Alex McNeice, 1st year, Classics

Heya! I’m Alex and I’m a first year student at Mary’s studying classics. I’m super excited to be helping show all of you our amazing college and to give you a glimpse into the awesome student life at Mary’s. Mary’s is full of opportunities and it’s so easy to dive into everything the college and uni has to offer. I’ve gotten involved with Mary’s chapel choir, Mary’s boardgame society, dipped my toes into the many different sports here like running and lacrosse and I’ve taken part in organising balls within the college. Mary’s is a college full of opportunities and friendly people and has been such an amazing experience so far. Whether it’s the gowned formals in the dining hall or messing around by the toastie bar, Mary’s has been full of good memories and I can guarantee that you’ll have a blast if you end up here!

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Eleanor Betts, 2nd year, French & German

I’m Eleanor (she/her), a 2nd year French and German student from York.  I am really looking forward to being a POVD rep and sharing all of the many opportunities and experiences that Mary’s and the wider university has to offer. My favourite thing about Mary’s is that it is welcoming and has a community feel – it really does live up to the reputation of being the friendliest college!

Durham is a wonderful city and the collegiate system really makes it feel like a home. We have lots of different groups and societies that provide a chance to get involved in the college community – I am involved in the JCR and started a Just Dance Society (see you there 😊 ). And as someone who was really worried about coming to university and starting in a new environment, Mary’s was the perfect place for me to settle into a new city while making lots of new friends.

I really hope you enjoy your POVD and get the chance to explore how lovely the city is and I can’t wait for you to see what we have here at Mary’s (as well as how pretty the building is). If you have any questions feel free to ask!

 

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On this page, you will also find the following content from the 2021 POVD:

• Life at Mary’s
• Mary’s as Your Home
• Support at Mary’s
• Life Outside of Your Degree
• Durham ‘Terms’ Explained
• What to Bring
• Top Tips

If you’d like to explore St Mary’s College via our 360 virtual tour, click here!

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Post Offer Visit Day 2021 Official Video

 

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Welcome to St Mary’s College JCR Visit Days 2021

 

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Life at Mary’s

 

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Mary’s as Your Home

 

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Support at Mary’s

 

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Life Outside of Your Degree

 

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Durham ‘Terms’ Explained

 

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What to Bring

 

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Top Tips