Feeling overwhelmed? That’s normal!
Deciding where to go to university can feel overwhelming—trust me, I’ve been there. It’s a big decision, and it’s completely normal to feel uncertain. I hope sharing my personal experience of why I chose Durham will help you as you make your own choice.
The collegiate system
Moving 360 miles away from home to a place I’d never visited before was absolutely terrifying. But Durham’s unique collegiate system made all the difference in easing that transition. The colleges aren’t just where you live—they’re where you eat, socialize, and make your closest friends. They quickly become your home away from home.
From the very first day, I felt a strong sense of belonging in my college. Whether you’re sporty, musical, theatrical, religious, introverted, or extroverted, there’s a college community for you. It was the smaller college communities within the wider university that really made Durham stand out to me. The feeling of being part of a close-knit college family helped me feel grounded, which is why the collegiate experience played such a big role in my decision to come here.
Location: The perfect balance
For someone like me, who grew up in a small village in Kent, the idea of moving to a large, bustling city was daunting. Durham’s size struck the perfect balance. It’s big enough to give you a sense of independence but small enough that you won’t feel overwhelmed.
Everything is within walking distance, from lectures to shops, restaurants, and parks. This was a huge plus for me—I didn’t have to worry about navigating a large city on top of adjusting to university life. And if you’re craving a bit more excitement, Newcastle is just a 12-minute train ride away, offering the bigger city experience when you want it. Durham provides a peaceful academic environment, but with access to a lively urban area, it offers the best of both worlds.
Life beyond academics
Durham strongly promotes a healthy work-life balance, offering thousands of clubs and societies both within the colleges and university-wide. It’s a place where you can try something completely new, like ultimate frisbee, ballroom dancing, or even gliding – you name it, you can probably try it!
For me, sport has been central to my experience at Durham. Sport is huge here, and that was definitely a factor in my final UCAS decision. Whether you’re looking to continue a sport or try something new, Durham is the place to do it.
A final note from me
Yes, I chose Durham for its prestigious reputation and top 10 ranking in the UK (Guardian 2024), but also because there is so much more to Durham than just it’s academic standing.
If you’re considering firming or insuring Durham on UCAS, my advice is simple: stop thinking and go for it! Choosing to study at Durham has been the best decision I’ve ever made. The friends, knowledge, and memories I’ve gained here are truly irreplaceable, and I wouldn’t trade my experience for anything.
Discover more
Download our latest prospectus and college guide here.
Follow our students on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
