Lily – Biochemistry

What is your favourite thing about Teddy Hall?

My favourite thing about Teddy Hall is definitely the people. The people I met in my first year have become lifelong friends and a defining part of my time here. As it’s a relatively small college, you quickly get to know people across different years and subjects, which helps build a close community. This really comes through at College events, where there’s always a big crowd of supporters and a strong sense of Hall spirit, creating such a fun and lively atmosphere.

What do you like about the College’s site and location in Oxford?

St Edmund Hall is one of the most well-located colleges, which makes day-to-day student life incredibly convenient. We’re only a few minutes from the science area, the High Street (with lots of cafés), as well as countless libraries. It’s ideal for Biochemistry because you can get to lectures and labs quickly while still being in the centre of Oxford’s social life.

Why did you choose to study your course?

I’ve always been curious by how life works at a molecular level. I am particularly interested in how cells interpret DNA and then prepare it accurately for cell division. I find it fascinating that we can use different in-vivo and in-vitro techniques to explore and answer complex biological questions about these fundamental processes.

 What do you enjoy most about studying your subject?

The practical side of the degree is definitely my favourite. For the first three years, weekly labs allowed us to apply what we learned in lectures to real experiments. In the fourth and final year, we spend the whole year working on a research project in a lab of our choice. It’s been incredibly rewarding to experience real independent research and be part of ongoing science.

How have your tutors supported you during your time at Teddy Hall

The biochemistry tutors at Teddy Hall are exceptional. Despite being experts in their fields, they always find time to deliver supportive and engaging tutorials. They consistently challenge us to think more critically and consider different perspectives to gain a deeper understanding. The tutors are genuinely invested in our development and go above and beyond to help us succeed.

What do you like most about the Hall’s library?

Teddy library is one of my favourite places to study in Oxford. Converted from a 12th century church, it combines beautiful stained-glass windows with all the modern facilities you’d expect. It’s open 24/7 which is especially valuable during exam season or when deadlines are approaching. Being on-site makes it incredibly convenient to drop in between lectures or tutorials. The librarians are wonderfully helpful and always happy to order any books that we don’t yet have.

What’s the best thing about living in Hall accommodation?

Living in Hall accommodation means you’re always surrounded by students, which makes it incredibly easy to feel part of the community. There’s almost always something happening nearby that you can get involved in – whether that’s an organised college event or a spontaneous plan – and it’s so much easier to see friends when everyone lives close together. In first year especially, it’s a brilliant way to meet new people and quickly feel at home.

What do you enjoy most about the food at Teddy Hall?

The food at Teddy Hall is genuinely very good. It’s so convenient not having to think about cooking every day, especially during busy weeks, and mealtimes are a great chance to catch up with friends over breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. We also have Formal Hall twice a week, which is a lovely opportunity to dress up and enjoy a fancy meal. I particularly enjoy the themed formals, such as the International Women’s Day and Christmas dinners.

How has Teddy Hall supported or shaped your extra-curricular interests?

Teddy Hall really encourages you to explore interests beyond your degree. Alongside the many university-wide societies, Teddy Hall offers a wide range of its own extracurricular clubs and social events. There is genuinely something for everyone, whether you’re into sports, music, journalism, or crafts.