HMC welcomes freshers to College

The annual Freshers' Dinner in HMC's Arlosh Hall

This year, Harris Manchester College hosted a wider range of events than ever for new students as part of the traditional freshers’ week activities. The College, the JCR Committee and the MCR Committee combined to introduce students to the practical, social and cultural life of HMC, welcoming them into the college community from their first day. 

Activities included walking tours of Oxford and historical tours of HMC, as well as social events, such as pizza nights, pub quizzes, picnics – and even a boat party for graduate freshers.   

Clive Baldock, who will be studying for an MSt in Historical Studies, summed up his impression of the first week: “I’ve been struck by the warm welcome and being surrounded by other mature students, as well as the small scale of the College which makes it feel even more special”. 

As ever, one of the highlights of the week was the Freshers’ Dinner, with Fellows and staff gathering in the College’s Arlosh Hall for an annual event that welcomes new students to the College.   

The dinner gave freshers the opportunity to meet each other, as well as other members of the college community. It also marked one of HMC Principal Beth Breeze’s first opportunities to address the new cohort. 

In a short address, Principal Breeze emphasised the College’s mission, the importance of community and the central role that our students play: “We are a values-driven community, we exist so that everyone, whatever their age, has the opportunity to fulfil their academic potential, and go on to make a positive contribution to society. 

“And we try to live harmoniously, kindly, looking out for each other, lifting each other up, celebrating each others’ achievements, and showing up for each other when times are harder. 

Because the college is not really the buildings, or the history, it’s the people – and that means you are now the college.”