Stephenson College FAQs

YOU MAY ALSO WISH TO READ THE CENTRAL UNIVERSITY CENTRAL UNIVERSITY FAQs

FRESHER’S WEEK

Who can I talk to for support during Welcome and Orientation week?

  • Moving away from home and starting University can feel quite daunting, and that’s perfectly normal! Our JCR Freshers Reps will be on hand to make your transition to University life as smooth and fun as possible. Every evening there will be relaxed spaces where you can just come and chill with some of our reps. Our Freshers Reps are trained to assist you, but the JCR welfare team and the rest of the Exec will be available as well. College student support and welfare is available as well. The College student support team are also on hand should you need them, whether it be when you arrive or well into term! Durham University also have central student support facilities which can he accessed here: Student Support & Wellbeing - Durham University.

Do I have to drink during Welcome and Orientation week?

  • We understand that no everyone wants to drink and no one should feel pressure to do so. Therefore, none of the events on offer during Welcome and Orientation Week require drinking to have to drink to have a good time. There are a range of events on offer throughout the week to suit everyone.

What do I do if I don’t feel like I’ve made close friends by the end of Welcome and Orientation week?

  • It is absolutely normal for you to still feel unsettled by the end of your first week. Remember that you are in a completely new environment, with people you most likely have never met before, and that it will inevitably take some time for you to form friendships - so don’t worry! Joining a sports team or society is a great way to meet more people and make friends, and there will be plenty of JCR events throughout the year for you to get involved with and meet new friends!

What do I wear to matriculation?

  • Matriculation is a special occasion, your official welcome to Durham University, therefore Students should dress smartly (i.e. suits, dresses, skirts). Lots of people like to wear a college tie or a college silk scarf - these can be pre-ordered, or bought upon arrival for £5 each. Also remember that Durham is hilly, so you may want to wear flats instead of heels!

LIVING IN COLLEGE

What do I have to bring?

Is there an easy way to get from Stevo to my lectures?

  • Most students walk to lectures. Yet, Stephenson is also located next to a Park and Ride Service (PR2) which stops near the Science Site and Elvet Riverside, making it ideal for both STEM and Humanities students. The Park and Ride Service at Howlands also offer a all-day ticket for students costing £1, just don’t forget your campus card!.

Is Stephenson College self-catered?

  • Yes, however we also have regular College Dinners, affectionately called ‘Locomotion Dinners’ and Formal Dinners throughout the year. Not to mention the popular JCR Winter and Summer Balls!

Where is the best place to get groceries from?

  • There are multiple places to shop in Durham so it very much depends on personal preference. Durham Market has a great range of locally sourced foods which we’d highly recommend. There is also a Tesco in Durham Market Place, plus other smaller supermarkets on North Road and South Road. You can also find a number of larger supermarkets at Durham City Retail Park and the Arnison Centre.

  • You can also get it groceries delivered to Stephenson College, but to act sustainably and avoid minimum spends it is worthwhile cooperating with a friend or your flatmates.

Where do I do my washing?

  • There is a laundry room in the Howlands building. You will need to download the Circuit Plus app (iOS and Android) - ensure you download the Plus version, or you’ll be unable to use the machines! Each wash is £4, plus free drying.

  • More information can be found on Circuit Laundry’s website: Circuit | №1 Managed Laundry Equipment Supplier

What’s the WiFi like?

  • The WiFi is fast and accessible from any building on the university campus. You can sign in with your University credentials to either eduroam or Durham Student.

  • You can set up a private wireless network using LinkIT for using devices like an Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast, Alexa etc.

  • The university will provide you with further instructions on how to access the WiFi.

Where can I register at a doctors/dentist?

  • You will receive instructions during the summer regarding University GP registrations. If you are not able to complete it, you will be able to register for a GP upon your arrival in Durham.

  • If you are struggling to find these instructions you can use this form to register with the Claypath and University Medical Group: GP Registration Form (campusdoctor.co.uk)

  • However, if you feel ill while you are in Durham, NHS 111 is always available and often times will book you quick appointments!

  • There are a number of dentists in Durham, you will have to contact them individually to register.

Do I have to move out over holidays?

  • No, you don’t need to worry about moving out during holidays - only for the summer holidays when your contract ends.

Will I be able to watch TV in my dorm?

  • Yes, but you will have to get a TV license.

  • We also have two projector screens in our Café-Bar which you can watch whilst enjoying a drink and some food!

Is Durham safe at night?

  • Durham is generally very safe, especially if you walk on streets where the night lights are lit.

  • However, never leave a Stevo Ranger behind - it is always best to buddy up or walk with a group of people when you’re coming back to College from a night out! 

Will there be formals?

ACADEMICS

What if I can’t attend a tutorial/seminar/compulsory class?

What do I do if I don’t like my course?

  • If you don’t like your course, talk to your academic advisor, department staff, or college student support; they will guide you on what your different options are.