Cambridge University: Churchill

What's it like as a place to live? Churchill is unique among Cambridge colleges for its sense of community. It's a dynamic, forward-looking college.

How's the student accommodation? Accommodation is of a consistently good standard. Rooms are priced at an appropriate range for the types of room. The college as a whole is a great environment and was one of the best pieces of architecture to come out of the 1960s.

What's the student population like? Churchill has a very diverse population and the highest proportion of students from state school backgrounds. It also has a vibrant international and graduate community. It is a very sociable, friendly environment, partly because most students spend all three years in College.

How do students and locals get on? Generally fine – there are few issues.

What's it like as a place to study? Cambridge is an amazing place to study. The courses are all very well taught and generally rank among the highest in the world.

What are the teaching staff like? Generally experts in their fields or PhD students. Very interested in the success of students and the College. Many are undertaking fascinating research in their departments.

What are student societies like? There are a huge range of societies, both in College and the University. Colleges all have their own sports teams and there are inter-collegiate matches in most common sports. Students can also compete on a university level and there is a wide range of participation. Outside sport, there are societies covering almost every area imaginable, from ballet, to music, to launching balloons to the edge of space.

What's a typical night out? Either to some bars, then a club or a 'formal swap'. Formal swaps are a tradition where a group of guys from one college, or sports team will go out with a group of girls (or vice versa) from another. This is usually to a formal dinner at College or a curry house/restaurant, followed by bars and a club. They are a great way to get to know people well, in a short space of time – they're also very fun, and fuelled by sufficient quantities of (usually) wine. The JCR (Undergraduates) also host a free weekly party (an 'ent') for students from Churchill and nearby colleges every Friday.

And how much does it cost? Drinks in bars tend to be around £2.50−£3. College bars are much cheaper. Club entry is usually £4. Formal dinners tend to range between £5−£10 and a bottle of wine is about £4.

How can you get home safely? Walk, or get a taxi (if you're feeling lazy).

Is it an expensive place to live? Generally slightly more expensive than other Universities, however there are a lot of bursaries available for students on low incomes, so finances should never be an issue.

Average price of a pint? £3.50 in a bar. £2ish in a College.

And the price of a takeaway? £7? Pizzas are £6.50 delivered. Most students often eat in College. Formal Dinner costs £8.50.

What's the part-time work situation? Students are generally not allowed, and wouldn't have time to take part-time jobs during term-time. Churchill allows students to work a few hours per week for the College (eg in Bar, maintenance etc). Outside term, there are no restrictions, and there is often work available with the College.

What's the best feature about the place? Sense of community, diversity, sociability.

And the worst? Slightly out of town (15 mins walk from centre). 1960s building, mid-range in wealth compared to other colleges. Occasionally difficult relationships with the College body (ie staff & fellows).

And to sum it all up? Churchill is a diverse, communal and sociable college, which considers itself forward looking, whilst retaining the good traditions of Cambridge colleges.