Magdalene

Welcome to Magdalene College! 

Magdalene is a small cosy college with a good amount of river frontage. It is in a nice location that doesn’t get too busy, but you can still easily walk to the town center. Magdalene’s claim to fame currently is its new library which attracts many students from all over Cambridge and beyond.

السلام عليكم. 

I’m Raheel, a fourth year engineer, and you can treat me as your point of contact for whatever issues you may face.

Pros 

  • The college is fairly close to the town center (~10 min walk) but still far enough that any pesky tourists won’t get in the way. 

  • The room and food costs are generally cheaper than other colleges.

  • Has the best library out of any college, which is open 24/7.

  • The college provides free punts to use in Lent and Easter terms.

  • Nice and big sports grounds that we share with St John's College.

  • There is a cardio gym and a weights gym in college.

  • The college hosted two iftars during Ramadan last year.

Cons 

  • Poor provision of halal food (see halal food section below).

  • Washing facilities cost money.

Washing Facilities

The washing machine costs £2 per load and the dryer costs £1 per load, though it's possible that the price has changed for this coming year. Generally, the facilities are not busy and you can almost always find a free machine.

Muslim Provisions

Prayer Space

Alhamdulillah, there is now a prayer room for the first time starting this year. It is located in First court on F staircase and has washing facilities right outside of it.

Halal Food

Unfortunately, halal meat is not provided for in normal canteen food (the canteen is called Ramsay hall). For formal halls, there is a halal option that you must include with your booking, but they usually just give you the vegetarian option from my experience.

Fridge/freezer Provision

Mini fridges are provided in every room in college. You can email the accommodation coordinator to have a freezer provided should you require it.

Ensuite

When balloting happens you can email the accommodation coordinator to reserve you an ensuite room on religious grounds. If you decide not to have an ensuite, there are sinks provided in every room.

Concluding Remark

If you are a muslim student coming to Magdalene please do not hesitate to get in touch! I am happy to answer any questions that you may have and help you settle into college. If you wish, I can add you to our Whatsapp group chat as well. See you soon!

السلام عليكم

Signed, 

Raheel Shah (rs2017)

Useful contacts:

Website

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