Cambridge University: St Catharine's

Described by students from many other colleges as the most fun, least pretentious and friendliest college in the university. It is medium sized (around 135 undergraduates a year) with a good mix of male/females, as well as state/independent school. It also consistently finishes near the top of the academic tables. Centrally placed in the city and near to most faculties. Well over 500 years old (9^th oldest in the university) and thus synthesising tradition and culture with a fresh and pleasant attitude and atmosphere. Sounds too good to be true but you would struggle to find any Catz student who regrets the choice. Sports facilities are very good, especially the sports pitches (incl. astroturf) and sports hall. Students can play almost any sport at any level – from rowing to rugby and cricket to squash; the college enjoys a good sporting reputation and considerable success. Many other activities and societies to get involved with – from the superb choir to the Shirley Society (oldest literary group in Cambridge). Nightlife in Cambridge is varied: popular clubs tend to appeal to the fans of ‘cheese’ rather than your more hard-core clubbers but there is generally something to suit everyone (eg college ents). College bar is very popular (amongst those from other colleges as well as Catz students) and prices cheaper than local pubs and many other colleges; normally a very lively atmosphere, especially at bops (3 times a term). JCR is not politically active but deals with college issues and caters efficiently and effectively for the students’ needs. Catz was first Cambridge college to gain Fairtrade certification.

Housing: All live in college rooms or flats. Eats: College: good choice including vegetarian options; cheap and average quality; formal hall excellent value (£7.50 for 3 courses, cheese & coffee). Town: good sandwich shops, fast food outlets; restaurants fairly expensive but Pizza Express, Zizi’s, Strada, The Depot reasonable. Drink: Several good pubs nearby (Anchor, Granta, Bath House) but quite expensive. College bar cheaper (£1.95 a pint). Nightlife: College bops regularly; Cambridge good for films and plays; Ballare, 22, Soultree and The Fez all good clubs; ADC for comedy (incl world-famous Footlights); great college music scene. Something for everyone. Locals: Averagely friendly. Lots of tourists! Sports: Superb college facilities 10 minutes walk (include rugby, football, tennis, cricket, squash, badminton and astroturf hockey pitch – only a swimming pool and full gym are missing). Very strong in university sports. Travel: Many students get summer travel bursaries £200 approx. Financial help: Students have to be very definitely in need but plenty of help available. Jobs: Very few students get paid work during term – officially not allowed. College has work during (summer) conference season; many seasonal jobs in Cambridge tourist industry. Best features: The people; the atmosphere; bar; sports; accommodation.

Howard Brenton (controversial playwright), Sir Ian McKellen (actor), Steve Punt (Mary Whitehouse Experience), Jeremy Paxman (TV presenter), Allan Green (MSP), Sir Peter Hall (director), Kevin Greening (ill-fated Radio 1 DJ).

Contact JCR President c/o the college.