The Impact of Alumni Support

I never chose Collingwood, literally. As an international student from Indonesia who had never heard of a “collegiate university” before, I neglected to choose a college. When I saw that I, an introvert who struggled to run for 5 minutes straight, was assigned to this lively and sporty college, I was confused, excited, and scared—but mostly scared.  

Little did I know that Collingwood would become my home-away-from-home, even though I never lived in College throughout my time there. This was unusual for a first year, but it never barred me from feeling welcomed and at home in Collingwood, which speaks volumes to the inclusive nature and kindness of Collingwood as a community. I slept on the floor of my friends’ rooms, and so often ate my own packed lunch in the dining hall with my liver-in peers that I became—and still am—friends with one of the dining hall staff, Joan. My time in Woodplayers also kept me close to College, as I took part in showcases, musicals, performances, and social gatherings over the course of three years. In some ways, sitting in a half-lit, empty dining hall with your peers munching on greasy pizzas and kebabs at 3am while gazing at a half-set stage is just as amazing of an experience as seeing the audience clap and beam at the end of our showcase in the new theatre.  

With the help of Collingwood’s generous alumni, supportive staff, and welcoming community, I have been able to grow, academically and beyond. In 2018, I took part in the Undergraduate Research Internship (UGRI) with EU Law Professor Robert Schuetze. Without the generous funding from Collingwood alumni, I would never have been able to work with Robert as, although academics love the help of research assistants, they do not often have funding to hire and pay new ones. That summer, I also had the privilege of marshalling then Rt. Hon. Andrew McFarlane LJ (now Sir Andrew McFarlane P) in the Royal Courts of Justice. I remember feeling overwhelmed and intimidated as I walked on the building’s marble floors. This later intensified as I reached the Courts’ literal red carpets—indicating the designated offices and passages of Rt. Hon. Lady and Lord Justices. This, however, all went away when I met Andrew; he was warm, welcoming, and funny—just like most Collingwood alumni I’ve met. Throughout the week, I sat in court proceedings, toured the Courts, and even saw the swearing in of Geoffrey Cox as Attorney-General for England and Wales. However, one of my fondest memories is eating my Tesco meal deal alongside Andrew while chatting about future plans, law, and life in general.  

These experiences were not only welcome additions to my CV, but they have significantly impacted me as a person. The UGRI made me realise my passion for academia which, eventually, led me to my research master's and to where I am now as a PhD candidate in Law. It also became a catalyst for many other opportunities, including teaching and even continuing to be Robert’s research assistant for the past four years. Moreover, the marshalling opportunity made me realise that, unlike many of my peers, I did not want to be a barrister, judge, clerk or even a solicitor. But, most importantly, Andrew helped me feel comfortable with that realisation. These things would not have happened without the support of Collingwood alumni and staff because these opportunities, though available, were often unpaid. Taking time off the multiple jobs I worked in order to pay international fees and living expenses was not an option; Collingwood alumni helped to remove these barriers for me through their generous donations. It felt very meaningful then, as a student fundraiser working on several telephone campaigns for Durham and Collingwood, to be able to share my story and explain just how much donations can genuinely change the lives of students.  

As Collingwood celebrates its 50th anniversary, I recall what one student said to me while I was waiting for a friend in the Collingwood reception. He reminded me that we met whilst I was giving tours of Durham colleges as a Student Ambassador, and he thanked me for helping him choose Collingwood. Out of curiosity, I asked, “what did I say?” He replied, “you didn’t say anything... you just looked so happy and at home here, and I wanted to feel that too.”  

My hope, for all Collingwood students past or present, is that you find joy within the Collingwood walls regardless of whether you stumbled—like me—or intentionally walked through its doors. And, for Collingwood College, that you will always remain a home-away-from-home for us all. 

Aileen Editha 

(Law, Collingwood College, 2016-21)