I am Mihir Joshi, an economics finalist at Trevelyan College. As a proud member of Trevs, I have lived two out of my three years within the hexagons. Here is my story about Trevs – a thorough, life-changing and whirlwind adventure.
Where it started
I remember giddily opening UCAS’s acceptance email— and shrieking joyfully about getting into Durham. Then, I did what any self-respecting student does these days: I looked up “A day in my life at Durham” videos on YouTube. Alas, they were all focused on Durham’s more ‘famous’ colleges: Castle, Hatfield, Cuths and Collingwood. But me? I had gotten into Trevelyan College, so I went onto Google, where I first caught a glimpse of the hexagons and the beautiful flower beds surrounding the college. The spark was instant: in my mind, I had conceived of Trevs as a small, cosy college —perfect for me, an international student, moving 5000 miles away for the first time, to bloom.
But, of course, the excitement of the new chapter is always mixed with anxiety and apprehension: “Will I fit in?”, “Will I be happy?”, “Will I find friends?” These questions especially became louder in my head when I drove to Trevs for the first time, to move in. Then the magic happened.
Trev’s felt like home
From the get-go — when I set foot in the Cobbles — I felt comfortable and at home. I was enthusiastically welcomed into college life by Freps, fellow seniors from Trevs, who I found extremely relatable. I enjoyed the whole cosy, informal air of Trevs. In all honesty, there was no time that week to miss home or ruminate: I was immediately sucked into a whirlwind of fresher’s activities – treasure hunts, goofy dancing, quizzes and trips to town. Despite my fears — everyone looked and sounded different from me — I found interacting with my peers and making friends very natural and organic. To all those incoming freshers reading it: everyone is as giddy and nervous as you are; so speak up, be open, converse and enjoy yourselves — it’s going to be super fun!
Daily college life
My favourite part of the college was having a landing. I spent almost every evening on that landing floor talking endlessly into the night, listening to music, playing games, and pounding out essays. These interactions made me a more curious and open-minded person, and importantly, left me with indelible, lifelong memories and friendships.
I tremendously enjoyed my daily college life. From looking forward to a quiet breakfast with a book— none of my friends rose early — to studying in the cosy Trevs library (the best place), eating meals with friends, going to the bar and the gym, and ending the day overlanding conversations, I enjoyed every moment. I remember vividly feeling a deep sense of belonging to the place: everyone was in the same boat, with similar fears and struggles as I; we were on this adventure together.
I didn’t want to leave
Undoubtedly, Trev’s biggest gift is its people. Unlike other colleges, Trevs has no people stereotype. I strongly believe that is because Trevs attracts everyone, making it a melting pot, we all feel at home here.
At the end of my first Michaelmas term, I had a strange feeling. For the first time in my life, I was loath to take a month’s vacation; I wanted to be in college, with my friends, enjoying adulting. Trust me, this feeling is universal, shared by countless peers.
College societies
The way I met like-minded people and friends was through college societies. Thankfully, they are not driven by mere talent and ability, but by interest and wanting to have fun. My advice to anyone is join as many as possible; it is super fun. I particularly enjoyed cricket and debate societies. A big regret that I have is not joining the rowing society!
Formals
I’m sure you’re curious about the famed gowned formals, a blend of the traditional and modern. Well, I thoroughly enjoyed them, looking forward to them all day. Suiting up for dinner for a fun evening of meeting Trevians, old and new, participating in college traditions and creating memories have been major events in my college life.
The main show for me is the Summer Ball, held at the end of Easter Term, to let your hair down after exams. The experience of dressing up thematically and driving to a decorated venue for a night filled with food, games, music and friendship, followed by watching the 4.30 am sunrise from Observatory Hill is enthralling and picture perfect for Instagram! The goodbyes here are the worst; the end of the term is close.
Support
Well, all this is hunky-dory, but what when you aren’t at your best? I am most grateful to the college for standing by me when things got hard. Throughout this period, I found incredible and heart-warming support from the college’s welfare and support team. I was made to feel safe and not judged. This means the world to me. When I previously said the best thing about college is its people, I don’t just mean the students! Everyone from the principal to the serving ladies is there to make you happy and comfortable; you are in good hands.
Of my three years at Durham, I have spent two in college. I am now on the verge of graduating, and I will look back at my time wistfully, for it has left me with indelible memories, best of friends, and lifelong learnings. Every place in college holds precious memories for me. Trevs will always have a special place in my heart, as the first ‘home’ I had outside of home.
Discover more
Take a look at Trevelyn College’s web pages
Download our latest prospectus and college guide here.
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