End of Term Message from the Principal

Please see below for the end of term message sent to all students from the Principal, at the conclusion of Epiphany Term.

Dear Greylings

Whether you live in College or live out, are an undergraduate or a postgraduate, are a mature student, commute from home or are staying in annex accommodation I sincerely hope Grey College and being part of our community has enriched your experience this term. We know we can do more for some students and are always keen to hear from you by email, in person and through our end of year survey next term.

Apologies for the long email, read on if you want to know what College has been doing- all in collaboration with you, our students.  

We have been busy in College and here are some highlights:

• College has made more than 40 funding awards for students to participate in college life (sports, music, events etc) and for students to take up opportunities and experiences that otherwise would be unaffordable. Our alumni fund these bursaries and College works hard to cultivate and communicate with these loyal supporters so students can continue to rely on their generosity in the future.
• Our Opportunities programme has included a package of skills and career facing workshops, often drawing on the input and experience of our alumni who have talked about career routes, run CV workshops and who give direct access to their expertise via our LinkedIn Careers Connections network.
• We have employed talented student interns in our Library, on our Opportunities Programme, in Alumni Engagement and on our Biodiversity Project, helping these students develop skills and shape College initiatives. 
• In keeping with our commitment to sustainability, we have created a new wildlife garden, complete with pond, meadow and native shrub planting, together with bird and hedgehog boxes. Look out for opportunities to get involved, view images from our bird box cameras and learn how to grow your own veg in our new greenhouse!
• College runs the bar, and it has been a great term with events such as the amazing Barfest, made possible our fantastic bar team. We have used the bar to run networking events, student leaders sessions, quizzes and other community events.
• Community dining has been very popular this term, as a chance to celebrate different events and cultures and enjoy an evening of college tradition. Students enjoyed Valentines, Spring Festival and our Sportsperson’s Formal, and it was great to have students on High Table.
• The Student Support team continue to offer welfare events, including crafting, dog walks and relaxation sessions, as well as provide individual support and advice. Don’t miss Cakefest tomorrow at 1pm; eat cake, say hello, perhaps meet some new people!
• We have worked with our students on the Grey College Environment and Sustainability Committee and our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee to hear your views, and to co-create activities and events to turn your ideas into reality.
• Our parthership with the University of Macau has reached a very exciting stage, with exchange students visiting Henry Fok Pearl Jubilee College next week for a student-led cultural programme; we are looking forward to hosting the return visit in June.  
• Finally, College has helped to build the MCR, providing an important focus for our postgraduate students, fourth years, and older undergraduates, including those living in annex accommodation at Ernest Place.

In addition, it has been a pleasure to support the fantastic array of events, college sports and socs and other activities run by the JCR, including the fabulous PGN and Fashion Show. I have to mention how chuffed I am at our sporting success in finals week! Grey College sport is thriving, both in participation and achievement. It was great to see so much passion and commitment from teams and spectators alike!

All this would not happen without the dedication of the College team, and our Operations colleagues in food service, housekeeping, kitchen, portering and reception – we are all here to make Grey College a place you can belong and achieve your best.

We will have more next term – look out for the Welcome Back formal and events to help you get through the exam season.

Wishing you all a lovely Easter break!

Sonia