Meet the 2025 Telephone Campaign Callers

This year our Telephone Campaign will run from 22 March to 6 April and our dedicated team of student callers are looking forward to picking up the phone and chatting with alumni, updating you on College news and asking for support towards the College's fundraising priorities.

Meet our student callers...

Tabby

What subject are you studying?
Law.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
One of my favourite things about Magdalene is how social it is. I’ve only been here for a term and a half, but I already feel very close to all the freshers, as well as many second- and third-years, thanks to the many events where we can mix. Karaoke Thursdays are a prime example. I also love how often we go to formals, which is only possible because they’re so affordable.

What is your favourite place in College?
My favourite place is probably our Formal Hall, as it’s the most beautiful one in my (very unbiased) opinion. A close second is the beach, which was stunning when we first arrived in October. Even now, it’s lovely with all the snowdrops coming up, and, of course, it was the location for my College proposal on Valentine's Day.

Why did you choose to study your course?
My family is very STEM-focused, but I’ve always been more drawn to the humanities. I was tempted by geography, politics, and languages, but I decided on law because I knew it would guarantee me a stable career while still offering plenty of options. I’m not entirely sure I want to go into practice, but it’s a good route into the civil service or NGO work, which I’m currently more interested in.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
My main passion is horse riding, which I’ve been doing for nearly 10 years. I also regularly go to the gym and swim in the sea during the summer. I love music—especially Afrobeats, alternative, and anything classical, as I play the piano. I enjoy reading (although I doubt I’ve picked up a fiction book since coming to Cambridge). My go-to is usually a classic, particularly Jane Austen, or a murder mystery. I also crochet, so I make many of my own clothes.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I’m a member of the University-wide Law Society (CULS), Scot Soc, and intermittently Caledonian Soc. I’m also the treasurer of the SAFE committee, which is linked to the UN Society and partnered with the charity CAMFED to support educational opportunities for women in sub-Saharan Africa.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I really love the College system, as each one feels like its own little community. I’m slowly expanding my list of College brunches and formals that I’ve been to—I'm hoping to have the full set by the time my three years are up. All the traditions really set Cambridge apart from other universities, and I feel very lucky to have such a unique experience.

What made you choose Magdalene?
My three main criteria for choosing a College were affordability, a central location, and a strong reputation for law. Magdalene ticks all three boxes.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Social, welcoming, traditional.

Describe yourself in three words.
Friendly, social, kind.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
Jane Austen, Agatha Christie.

What is your favourite food?
Pizza, anything Greek!

Max

What subject are you studying?
Veterinary Science.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
My favourite thing about Magdalene is its warm and friendly feel. Whether you’re popping in to ask the Porters something or need help with a maintenance issue, everyone in College is always happy to assist. I often find myself having lovely chats with people from all areas of the College.

What is your favourite place in College?
My favourite place in College is the bench between the Fellow's and Scholars' Garden. Situated right by the river, you can always count on getting a great view of punting (and sometimes punting fails), as well as enjoying some peace and quiet in the bustling city.

Why did you choose to study your course?
I chose to study Veterinary Science because I saw it as a rewarding career where you can directly impact the welfare of animals as well as their owners. My love for animals stems from watching David Attenborough documentaries on repeat as a child. It’s hard to believe that I now have supervisions and lectures in the David Attenborough Building!

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
One of my biggest hobbies is art and baking. Whether it’s pottery, drawing, or baking cakes, I find the creative arts a great way to relax. Some of my achievements include winning the Vet School Craft Competition (for my cow skull pottery) and appearing on Bake Off: An Extra Slice to showcase my bakes to a celebrity panel! I love sports, especially trail running and orienteering, as they get me into nature and help me unwind from the stresses of term. I’m also an aspiring author and am currently in the process of writing my first novel. I often enter short story competitions as a way to generate new ideas and have fun.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I’m a member of the Vet School Running Club, CUOC (University Orienteering), the Magdalene MedVetSoc, and the Cambridge University Science Society.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
My favourite thing about Cambridge is its rich history and old buildings. I love walking through town, admiring the grand architecture, and feeling like I’m part of something special. I also love how close everything is, you can get anywhere in the University within a few minutes by bike.

What made you choose Magdalene?
I applied to Magdalene because of my experience as a prospective student. As soon as I walked in, the Porters were really friendly and gave me a map, a goody bag, and a brief overview of the College. As I explored, I loved the old but intimate feel, and the riverfront made it look all the more impressive.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Peaceful, cosy and fun!

Describe yourself in three words.
Creative, Sporty and Calm.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
My favourite books are the Black Magician Trilogy by Trudi Canavan,

What is your favourite food?
Pasta (in basically every form!).

Michelle

What subject are you studying?
Human, Social, and Political Sciences

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The best thing about Magdalene is the small, tight-knit community!

What is your favourite place in College?
My favourite place in College is the Beach, the view alongside the river is beautiful during the summer term and it is a lovely place to unwind and watch the punts go by!

Why did you choose to study your course?
I chose to study HSPS because I have always been intrigued by the social sciences, especially politics and international relations. During my course I gained a newfound love for anthropology and have enjoyed the deep dive into philosophical theories, understanding different outlooks on society and how this is different around the world!

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
In my spare time I enjoy different creative outlets like poetry, journalling and listening to music. My favourite way to relax is going on walks and having downtime by reading and listening to podcasts!

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I was part of the Magdalene JCR from 2022-2024, serving as BAME officer, then JCR Ents officer. I recently took part in a ADC show, as costume designer for a BAME play with the Marlowe Society. I am currently on the Magdalene May Ball committee, with the role of 2D design, and do College rowing with MBC.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I like exploring different parts of Cambridge, especially as the town has lots of historical facts to learn wherever you go.

What made you choose Magdalene?
I chose Magdalene because I visited Cambridge before applying and was drawn to the College for its beautiful riverfront. A big part of this was how welcoming the current students were to me as a prospective student! I was intrigued by their stories about how friendly and close the community is. This was exactly what I was looking for when considering which College to go to!

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Peaceful, Traditional, Warm.

Describe yourself in three words.
Friendly, Inquisitive, Caring.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
Open Water by Caleb Azumah-Nelson

What is your favourite food?
Falafel!

Joshua

What subject are you studying?
Law, LLM.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The people! Since I arrived at Magdalene, everyone—from the Porters to my fellow students—has been incredibly warm and welcoming. The College has a real sense of community, but in a way that embraces newcomers rather than feeling like an exclusive club. This has been a huge blessing for me as an international student.

What is your favourite place in College?
It’s a tough choice between Formal Hall and the New Library. Formal Hall offers the quintessential Cambridge experience, with candlelit dinners that make you feel as though you’ve stepped into another era. The New Library, on the other hand, provides a beautiful, well-lit working space that many of my friends from other Colleges are highly envious of. It definitely makes all the prescribed reading a little bit easier.

Why did you choose to study your course?
Having completed my undergraduate degree in law at the University of Cape Town, several of my professors recommended pursuing an LLM in the UK. Cambridge’s programme has an international reputation for both its rigour and range of course options. I’ve found the master’s to be highly stimulating and have really appreciated the seminar format of my classes.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?

In my spare time, you’re likely to find me reading, as I enjoy a variety of genres in both fiction and non-fiction. Admittedly, it’s been hard to find time mid-term, but I try to squeeze in a few pages here and there. I also love both following and playing sport—you might spot me on the squash court, going for a run, or in the midst of a touch rugby game. Above all, I’m a big people person, so as long as I’m with a group of friends, I’m not too picky about the activity.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I’m involved in the University Touch Rugby team and have played in several BUCS tournaments as well as Varsity. I’m also a member of the Graduate Christian Society and occasionally attend the C.S. Lewis Society when my schedule permits (held in his office!). Additionally, I serve as the LLM representative for Magdalene.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
One of the joys of attending Cambridge is having the sense that you are part of something bigger than yourself. It is hard to feel, while walking past buildings that are 800 years old, that you are the main show in town. One is made to feel that they are a small thread in a much grander tapestry—something which I find adds to rather than subtracts from purpose. I have also loved the availability of substantive conversations. My learning at Cambridge has gone far beyond the classroom, as I regularly find myself learning from fellow students regarding their studies, as well as topics that go beyond the scope of our courses.

What made you choose Magdalene?
Choosing Magdalene was initially based on the funding available for South Africans (via the Mandela Magdalene Scholarship), as I would not have been able to self-fund my LLM. While, in the end, I managed to secure a scholarship from a private foundation and thus did not need internal funding, I am certainly still glad that I chose Magdalene. I am a massive C.S. Lewis fan, and the College is also a bit of a 'South African embassy', which has brought in some of the flavours of home.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Aesthetic, graceful, community.

Describe yourself in three words.
Integrity, kind, fun.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
C.S. Lewis

What is your favourite food?
My mom's Thai Chicken curry.

Holly

What subject are you studying?
Human, Social, and Political Sciences.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The community, everyone is so social, and the College is just the right size. You know everyone, but there’s still a variety of people.

What is your favourite place in College?
The New Library, it's the reason I chose Magdalene.

Why did you choose to study your course?
I chose HSPS because of the interdisciplinary approach, which allows us to explore so many different ideas and ways of thinking. It introduced me to subjects I would not have tried otherwise.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
In my spare time, I like to stay around College with my friends, either in the College bar or the JCR.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I am part of the Varsity newspaper team. This term, I am the fashion shoot director.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I love how beautiful the city is and how walkable it is.

What made you choose Magdalene?
The New Library was a big reason that I chose Magdalene, I knew I wanted somewhere that would motivate me to study in College. The location was also perfect.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Pretty, social, friendly.

Describe yourself in three words.
Approachable, social, independent.

What is your favourite food?
Sushi!

Francis

What subject are you studying?
English.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The fact that it’s a smaller Cambridge College with centralised accommodation on-site is amazing. Being able to wake up, walk through College, and run into several friends throughout the day makes it easier to make new connections and stay in touch with old ones. It also fosters a community-centric atmosphere that makes Magdalene a much friendlier place.

What is your favourite place in College?
The New Library, first floor, in the Summit Room in the history section, overlooking the Master's Garden. In the early mornings, it’s so peaceful, and you can watch the squirrels traipse around the grounds. Occasionally, you’ll catch a glimpse of a hare, while blackbirds and bluetits dart in and out of view. Around 10–11am, the sun streams through the window, warming you as you work. On a broader level, the Library as a whole, with its social space and perfectly placed work areas, is one of Magdalene's most valuable facilities and an absolute pleasure to work in.

Why did you choose to study your course?
​​​​​​​I chose to study English for the sheer enjoyment and interest in the subject. I take pleasure in the emotional connection formed while reading, and I’m fascinated by how static language can evoke such powerful emotions in a reader. I love literature's ability to connect people within their cultural epochs as well as bridge the gap between readers across time. I also enjoy using literature as a way to study the cultural details and customs of a particular period, and particularly how these shape the individual experience.

Alongside prose, I also love studying drama and poetry. I find it especially exciting to see how plots and characters from a script are transformed and embodied on stage. In the case of poetry, I enjoy deciphering the precise mechanisms behind wording and structural choices that can elicit such visceral emotional responses.

I chose the Cambridge course specifically for its focus on Practical Criticism, which analyses and unpacks the precise functioning of poems and other literature in intricate detail. Overall, I am drawn to literature’s power to reveal truths, challenge our understanding of human nature, and encourage us to re-examine the world through different lenses.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
I enjoy creative writing, both poetry and prose, and regularly attend Cambridge societies to share and listen to poetry. Music is another passion of mine—I love unwinding with my vinyl record collection, play the drums, and am teaching myself electric guitar. I also enjoy wildlife photography, which gives me a chance to get out in the open air. I have a keen interest in languages, speaking (and continuing to learn) Mandarin Chinese, with hopes to pick up British Sign Language and French this year. For sport, I play squash to unwind and have recently taken up early morning runs around Cambridge, which I find great for both physical and mental health. When I have the time, I also enjoy video editing, occasionally playing video games, and cooking, which I find a perfect way to relax after a busy day.​​​​​​​

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I am the Magdalene College Squash captain and also train with the University team development squad. I am a member of the Magdalene College Poetry Society and regularly attend events at the Cambridge Union.​​​​​​​

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I particularly enjoy Cambridge's size. I love running into friends around town and appreciate the balance between it being a student city and a regular city. The beautiful architecture makes it wonderful to walk around, especially in the sun. I also enjoy how lively it is while being so close to nature, it’s easy to walk out of town, reconnect with the environment, and take a break from work.

What made you choose Magdalene?
I chose Magdalene for its rich literary history, with influential figures like I.A. Richards, William Empson, and C.S. Lewis having either taught or studied here. When I visited on the open day, I was drawn to its small, community-based atmosphere, which felt especially inclusive and friendly. I also love its location, close to the centre but slightly tucked away, offering a peaceful escape from the busyness of some of the more central colleges. Its position on the riverfront makes it even more appealing.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Warm, community, beautiful.

Describe yourself in three words.
Enthusiastic, curious, conscientious.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
Jack Kerouac - On The Road or John Milton - Paradise Lost

What is your favourite food?
Tarka Daal.

Haden

What subject are you studying?
English

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The people! I know it’s cliché, but I’ve made so many amazing friends in the MCR, and the staff I’ve gotten to know, including the Porters, the Academic Office, the College Office, the incredible Catering staff, and many others, are all so lovely and genuinely care about the students they support.

What is your favourite place in College?
The benches in the Fellows Garden and the riverside path through the garden are two of my favourite spots. I’ve had so many lunch breaks that started on the benches and ended with a walk along the river. It’s always so restorative and helps me recharge for an afternoon in the library. I also love the Chapel and am an active part of the Chapel community.​​​​​​​

Why did you choose to study your course?
I want to be an academic, so pursuing my PhD in English literature at Cambridge has been an invaluable part of that journey.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
I spend a lot of time with friends, either at a pub or having a movie night in someone's room. I also love to exercise and knit. Since my degree is so individually and intellectually driven, it’s really important for me to do things that support my physical and mental health, while also making sure I have a full and enjoyable social life.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I am part of the CS Lewis society and also active in the Chapel community.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I like how communal it feels. Also, as an American, it just never gets old to walk through the city and be struck by the beauty and magnificence of the architecture. There's nothing like it where I'm from in the States. The way the city and university are intertwined is really special.

What made you choose Magdalene?
I wanted a smaller College that had a distinct sense of community, because as an international student I didn't want to feel overwhelmed or lost in the shuffle of a bigger College.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
A quiet profundity.

Describe yourself in three words.
Perspicacious, intentional, gracious.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
As an English PhD, this is like asking me to choose my favourite child. Right now, though, I'm re-reading The Lord of the Rings.

What is your favourite food?
Cheese. All kinds of cheese.

James

What subject are you studying?
Philosophy.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
Community.

What is your favourite place in College?
New Library.

Why did you choose to study your course?
I cannot stop thinking about philosophical questions.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
Travelling and reading.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
Cambridge Union, 180 Degree Consulting.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
Rich history and cultural heritage.

What made you choose Magdalene?
It's a small, beautiful college by the river with a strong sense of community.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Adorable, supportive, soothing.

Describe yourself in three words.
Responsible, compassionate, rational.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
David Hume, An Enquiry concerning Human Understanding.

What is your favourite food?
Too many I can't name them :)

Rikki

What subject are you studying?
Natural Sciences.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The community and how involved everyone gets with College events like Sports Day, Halfway Hall, and BOPs.

What is your favourite place in College?
The library and the riverside walk along the Fellows' Garden.

What do you do in your spare time to relax?
Cooking with friends, cafe-hopping, arts and crafts.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I am currently the Ents Officer for Magdalene College JCR. Last year, I sang in the College Choir, and I was also involved in Notes, a Zine for student creative writing.

What do you most like about Cambridge?
The organised chaos.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Close-knit, understated, old.

Describe yourself in three words.
Personable, creative, thoughtful.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro.

What is your favourite food?
Vietnamese.

Fred

What subject are you studying?
Natural Sciences.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
It has to be the great community and the people. We’re certainly an underdog College, but we punch above our weight in many areas, including sports, academics, and bops.

What is your favourite place in College?
The New Library, beautiful place.

Why did you choose to study your course?
Natural Sciences appealed to me because I wasn't 100% settled on which specific field suited me the best. It starts off very broad and specialises more each year, I am now studying Materials Science and could not have chosen anything better despite the course not initially being on my radar.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
What is this 'spare' time you speak of? I tend to let off steam through sports, I play Water Polo for the uni and enjoy going to the gym/jogging. Going for a cold swim in Jesus Lido with the Magdalene Manatees also works wonders for driving off any anxiety, it is impossible to worry about anything but whether your toes may fall off when swimming in 5-degree water.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
In my prime I was the College rugby captain before injury forced me to stop, I now play Water Polo for the university and am the captain of the second team. I'm a proud founding member of the Magdalene Manatees, our College's cold water swimming society, and currently serve as the president of the Blackett Society: the College science society.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
Whilst Cambridge is a beautiful place, the thing that really sets it apart for me is the people. Everyone you meet is down to earth and humble, despite often being a very impressive person. It is a meeting point for global talent and I'm very proud to be part of this. It has the additional benefit of not being in O*ford.

What made you choose Magdalene?
Magdalene ticked a few boxes for me: it’s central but not too busy, friendly but not too small, and it also has a rich sporting history, particularly in rugby.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Better than Trin.

Describe yourself in three words.
Efficient.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
War Doctor - David Nott

What is your favourite food?
Based on my nectar card 'wrapped': My top three most bought items over the past year were 1. Red onions, 2. White onions, 3. Mushrooms. Take from that what you will.

Melanie

What subject are you studying?
Human, Social, and Political Sciences.

What is the best thing about Magdalene?
The Community! It has been so wonderful to watch the community grow over the past few years. As an independent student, the community is so much more than the student body. Experiencing College when other undergrads aren't here, I feel like I've been able to really appreciate how the community is also the staff that keep College running: housekeeping, the porters, the maintenance team and so much more. I feel very lucky to be in a College where every staff member has made me feel recognised and valued as a member of the community. The students are great too of course.

What is your favourite place in College?
The bench by the Beach! Especially in the morning as the sun rises. The bridge of sighs is an incredible view!

Why did you choose to study your course?
I was very passionate about politics when I first applied and liked the initial breadth of the course, giving me more time to explore new subjects before I specialised. I also appreciate how progressive particularly the sociology papers are- the reason I now specialise in sociology.

What do you do in your spare time/what is your favourite way to relax?
I spend a lot of time going on walks, writing poetry, meditating at the Cambridge Buddhist Centre, going to five rhythms dance session on a Friday night (my night out!), practising yoga, volunteering with the lovely folk at Cambridge Community Kitchen and going to live music events. My not so relaxing activity in my spare time is the issue-based political organising work I do.

Are you in any College or University clubs, societies or sports teams?
I used to be JCR President and Freshers' Rep before that. I have been a member of the Magdalene Jazz Disciples and Soft Crunch Landing- both jazz/funk bands in Cambridge. I was also a member of the Magdalene Poetry Society. I am currently a very active member of the ADC. I mostly do production work- intimacy co-ordinating and running the welfare programmes for shows.

What do you most like about Cambridge in general?
I love too many things about Cambridge!! It is such a beautiful city. Being in a place that is urban but still has lots of green space is very important for me. The music scene and queer communities in Cambridge as well as leftist organising spaces in Cambridge have been so important in helping me feel like this is home. The city is always so full of life even when undergraduate student leave for the holidays. Being a small city, there is a so much in such a small space. The walks, the night life, the abundance of restaurants and the accessibility of Colleges to students means there is so much to experience in Cambridge!

What made you choose Magdalene?
I chose Magdalene because it of how beautiful its green space is! I remember walking down the other side of the river and looking at the Fellows' Garden and thinking I could imagine myself sitting on the benches reading, watching the potential for my new life unfold. Pastoral support was also a significant consideration for me as someone from a low income background who has experienced varying hardships over the past few years.

Describe Magdalene in three words.
Calm(ish), Quaint, Community.

Describe yourself in three words.
Resolute, Sociable, Confident.

What/who is your favourite book/author?
At the moment Bell Hooks or Angela Davis, or Sophie K Rosa. All feminist writers that look at different intersections of community, love, care and abolition.

What is your favourite food?
Choc chip cookies!

Support the Telephone Campaign

If you would like to support the 2025 Telephone Campaign please complete the donation form below. 

Every single gift will make a very real difference, thank you!