Barry Dooley

Comprehensive School, Liverpool

Graduated with a BA in Law in June 2005

Coming from a comprehensive school in Liverpool, the entire Cambridge experience seemed totally alien and daunting to me; I was convinced there would be too much work to cope with and that I wouldn’t “fit in” amongst all the perceived Oxbridge tradition and ceremony. Even though my interview was nowhere nearly as horrendous as I had imagined, I was still very nervous, right until I pulled up outside of the college.

However, I most certainly need not have worried; Clare is a brilliant place to be. Literally everyone within the college is incredibly friendly and the first few weeks were spent desperately trying to remember the names of the dozens of interesting and exciting new people I had met. This set the tone for all of my time here so far, I can’t believe how much has happened - rowing, salsa dancing, going to balls and dinners, trips to London, fancy dress parties, punting and dozens of great nights out with new friends. Facilities in the college supporting social activities are excellent, with numerous groups and societies making use of great football pitches, squash and tennis courts, the gardens, music practice rooms, meeting rooms and last, but most certainly not least, our college bar which (totally unbiased of course!) is one of the best in Cambridge.

Of course, everyone is here to study, and the courses are both challenging and time consuming. Law at Cambridge is definitely hard work, but the excellent facilities both at College and University level, combined with excellent small group teaching and support means it is very manageable, and ultimately rewarding, with plenty of time left to close the books and relax. In college there is a separate law reading room with the vast majority of books needed, whilst the faculty building, stunningly modern with its sweeping glass walls, also has great facilities, not least a very tempting café in the basement!

Everyone has financial concerns surrounding student life, but I’ve managed without having to make too many sacrifices. Indeed, due to the many grants available and the ability to live in college-owned accommodation for three years, I seem to suffer less stress over money than many friends in other universities throughout the country.

I may be repeating myself, but overall Clare is a great place to live. I’m just sorry that I only get to spend three years of my life here, which is perhaps all the more reason to make sure that I get the most out of it whilst I can!

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