Darren

Since starting at HMC I think I have been most struck by the friendliness of my fellow students and all college staff. No question, conversation or problem has ever been too big or too small for anyone and they have always made time for me, despite the perpetually busy schedules that come with being at Oxford. I came to Oxford to study law after completing a degree in law, corporate finance & investment at Wits University, Johannesburg, South Africa. Moving over to a new university, country and continent during the pandemic was a daunting prospect but every single person at HMC has made the transition as easy as possible, something which I don’t think should be understated. The college takes academics and work seriously but never fails to encourage and facilitate activities which improve our social connections with each other as well as our holistic education.

Three standouts for me in my first year have been play society every second Friday night where we have been able to tune our acting skills while having a laugh together and learning something new outside of the library. Another sphere of college life I have been fortunate enough to be involved in has been as the LGBTQ+ officer. The community has been beyond welcoming and has really been a valuable and inclusive space for all those who wish to get involved. My favourite “responsibility” so far has been the onerous task of hosting Tuesday drinks for the community and, occasionally, allies. 

Last but not least would have to be the wonderful choir practices and weekly chapel services. The choir is open to all and is an incredibly friendly and inclusive space but still one where our director is constantly pushing us to improve and grow musically. I already feel like I have made friends for life here at HMC while constantly learning and growing as a student and citizen of the world. I can’t wait to see what the next two years hold for me and what the future holds for the college.

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