Welcome to Van Mildert College JCR
A welcome from your JCR President, Neve
Hey everyone! I’m Neve, and I am Mildert’s JCR President. First and foremost, I want to say a massive congratulations on getting into Durham. You have done the hard part (phew!) and now you can breathe and start to get excited to come to University… and trust me when I say it is going to be some of the best years of your life!
No matter who you are and where you have come from there is a place for you at Mildert. We pride ourselves on being the college that does everything; from being one of the strongest colleges in sport; to offering music, drama, debate, Dungeons and Dragons society, and so much more! But most of all, we pride ourselves on just having the best people. You’ll feel it from the moment you arrive - in the friendships you make, and in the amazing volunteer work we do both within and beyond our Mildert community.
As JCR President, I’m here to make sure every fresher has the chance to get the most out of their time at Durham. That could mean joining one of our fantastic sports teams or societies, or diving into our jam packed calendar of events — from our iconic annual fashion show to bingo nights, bar events, balls, and everything in between.
If I could give you one piece of advice as you prepare to join us in September, it’s this: treasure every moment… it really does fly by! I’m writing this having graduated in July, with countless memories, lifelong friends, and experiences I never thought I’d have — all because I got involved and stepped outside my comfort zone.
Of course, your degree is important, but the time you spend outside your lectures is just as valuable. Say yes to new things. Get involved. And most importantly — don’t panic! I came to Durham not knowing anyone from my school, and I can honestly say Mildert became a home away from home. We’ll be there from day one to help guide you through your first steps — and before you know it, three (or four!) unforgettable years will have flown by.
If you have any questions before you arrive, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at president@mildert.co.uk, or contact college — we’re always happy to help. And once you're here, my door is always open!!!
A welcome from your Senior Frep, Tilly
Hello and a huge congrats on getting into Durham, and more importantly welcome to Van Mildert! All the hard work is done and I can assure you it’s all going to feel so worth it when you arrive at Mildert. Whether it was your first choice or not, I have every confidence that you will quickly come to realise that there is no better college to be spending your next few years. Mildert is full of opportunities, amazing events and most importantly great people.
If you came to any of our post-offer open days, there is a small chance we’ve met already but for those of you who haven’t let me introduce myself!
I’m Tilly, your Senior Freshers’ Representative (Frep) for this year! I’m here along with my 65 Freps to give you the best possible freshers' week to ensure you are settled into life at Mildert. We’ve been spending our summer planning some brilliant events for you to attend in your first week to get a proper taste of what life in Durham’s going to be like. From helping to carry bags when you arrive, to singing karaoke and answering any questions you may have, freps are here to ease you into your time at uni whilst having fun! As you’ll be getting ready to arrive at Mildert, we will be here the week before to prepare the best possible freshers' experience to get you settled in. We have a whole range of events set ready for you including a casino night, a scavenger hunt, and a tour of the Durham bars to keep you busy!
To make sure you’re all up to date with all things freshers give our instagram (@vanmildertfreshers25) a follow if you haven’t already! In the meantime if you have any question or queries, please get in touch by emailing me at seniorfrep@mildert.co.uk
Van Mildert JCR Freshers’ Handbook 2024
The Freshers’ Handbook provides new students with a guide to the JCR, the College and Durham. Read this before you arrive to know what to expect when you get here.
This is the 2024-25 version, but it will be updated with the 2025-26 version soon.
