Provost's welcome
Whether you are a new or a returning student of this College, prospective York student, alumni or just a visitor, I would like to welcome you to Halifax College of the University of York.
As a former Halifax student myself, I believe that this college is unique and offers invaluable opportunities to it’s members. Halifax College is the most diverse college of the University of York and is home to the widest range of students – young and mature (including students with families), undergraduate and postgraduate. Most importantly, Halifax College members come from all over the world. Being a truly international college, our members benefit from both treasured experience and invaluable skills that complement their academic achievements at the University. Most of Halifax students leave the university with a global network of friends that will influence the rest of their lives.
Whilst being the largest college in the University, Halifax combines its international atmosphere with a very friendly and cosy community. Unlike many other colleges, which are organised exclusively around blocks of large flats, Halifax College is organised into eight courts. In six of these courts (Ingram, Irwin, Lindley, St Lawrence, Wood and Younger) students live in terraced houses, whereas two courts (Ainsty and Hickleton) offer a more ‘traditional’ (but modern) flat accommodation. Combined with the family houses on Garrowby way, this layout gives Halifax College a distinct village – rather than “halls of residence” – feel. The green and leafy areas between the houses are used by students for barbeques and picnics as well as for just studying or sun bathing in the summer. In cooler or rainy weather our common room (JJ’s) – equipped with two plasma screen televisions, video game consoles, small kitchen, table tennis and a pool table – provides both a refuge and the social space for students. Being the largest common room on campus, JJ’s also serves as venue for many student events throughout the year.
Finally, formally established in 2001, Halifax College is the youngest and the most dynamic of York colleges. Every student joining us has a chance to make a significant contribution to the college’s community and to leave a personal mark on its character. The opportunities that this College offers help to prepare our students for the world of work in the increasingly global markets. I hope that you will make the most of those opportunities, making Halifax College your home and your community. Most importantly, I hope that you will find the experience of being the member of Halifax College as enjoyable and as rewarding as I have.
Once again, on behalf of all the College staff, I would like to welcome you to Halifax College – the Global Village in the World-Class University.
Dr Oleg Lisagor
Provost
Halifax College
(and a former Halifax Court resident 1998-2001)
