Advice for incoming postgrad in Physics Department (West Cambridge Site) being allocated to Hughes Hall?
I'm starting an MPhil in the Physics Department this October, and Hughes Hall seems to be one of the farthest colleges from my department (Google Maps shows a 52-minute walk).
I'm kind of bummed out about my college allocation 😭. But I'm trying to make the best of what I've got, so what would be the best strategy here in terms of choosing accommodation and how will it affect my experience?
From what I've found online, Hughes Hall doesn't have enough accommodation for its students, and undergrads and PhD students are prioritised (as per their website). So, a lot of MPhil students end up getting private accommodation. On top of this, my undergrad results won't come out until June/July, and that will delay the completion of my offer conditions, which are required to be completed before getting college accommodation, I think. So most places might be filled up by then?
I was really looking forward to staying in college accommodation since it helps with having a tighter-knit friend group and more on-campus vibes than private accommodation, especially as an international student. I would definitely prefer it if Hughes Hall offers me a college accom, though I know it’s not that likely.
At the same time, should I start searching for private accommodation closer to my department (instead of close to my college, although Mill Road might be a nicer place to live near)?