Cambridge Clare - Student View

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful colleges, and second oldest in Cambridge. Popular with tourists due to 17-century court, bridge and gardens bordering the Cam.

Very central but slightly off the Kings Parade tourist route. Lectures and shops are all within a comfortable walk/cycle. First years live in some of the best rooms in Cambridge in a single complex, many ensuite; second and third year rooms (mostly in The Colony) allocated by ballot. Coin-operated washing machines and driers; cooking facilities are basic and students often eat in Buttery or Hall.

Relations between the college and the students are healthy. The Union of Clare Students is active, providing facilities and representation at all levels of college life and plenty of opportunities for students to get involved; women's rep offers support and advice, eg providing attack alarms.

Around 30 college societies, in addition to the vast range of university societies. College has a very strong musical tradition with an excellent chapel choir and regular recitals and concerts. Clare Cellars caters for a wide range of music tastes, but especially known tor Sunday night jazz, hip hop, d'n'b nights and rapidly acquiring a reputation for the best college stand-up comedy in town.

Enthusiastic approach to sport; teams of varying standards for hockey, tennis, football, rugby, rowing etc; squash courts in college. Successful in college league tables and most students take academic work seriously; but laid-back attitude to academic work remains one of the college's best features.

Weekly supervisions require preparation but the personalised teaching (unique to Oxbridge) produces exceptional results. Easier to change course after first year (than during); tripos designed with this in mind.

Ratio of men to women in college a healthy 50:50 so the atmosphere is more balanced than many colleges; higher proportion of students from state schools than most and there are links with schools in Tower Hamlets. For some subjects, a year out is encouraged before coming up.

Enjoys reputation as one of the most open-minded, friendly Cambridge colleges.