Postgraduate life (MCR)

The Middle Combination Room (MCR) is the hub of postgraduate life at Magdalene.

The Middle Combination Room (MCR) is the heart of postgraduate life at Magdalene College, providing a welcoming community and a range of social, academic, and welfare support.

The MCR is both a student-run organisation and a physical space within First Court (F staircase), serving as the postgraduate common room. This shared space features a cosy living room with a fireplace, leather sofas, and a well-stocked selection of books, journals, and board games. A smaller adjoining kitchen area includes comfy seating, tea and coffee facilities, a projector, speakers, a guitar, and a welfare box. Postgraduates are encouraged to use the space to relax, socialise, and organise events while keeping it tidy and inviting.

The MCR Committee represents postgraduate students at Magdalene, ensuring their voices are heard within the College. The MCR President sits on the Governing Body, acting as a liaison between students, Fellows, and College departments. Committee members are elected annually and take on a range of responsibilities, from organising social events to advocating for student welfare and inclusion.

The MCR organises a vibrant calendar of activities, including formal swaps with other Colleges, themed dinners, talks, and film nights. Special events such as Burns Night, Christmas, Easter, and Summer Banquets are highlights of the year. There are also regular game nights, coffee mornings, and parties designed to bring students together.

Several dedicated officers lead initiatives to support the diverse postgraduate community:

• International Officer – Organises cultural events such as origami workshops and international formals to help students from all backgrounds feel at home.
• Sustainability Officer – Promotes environmental awareness through events like garden tours and sustainability week.
• BAME Officer – Supports diversity and inclusion through cultural workshops, networking, and student support initiatives.
• Women and Non-Binary Officer – Works on gender equality, running mentorship programmes, workshops, and self-defence classes.
• Sports Officer – Encourages active living through College sports teams, from rowing and football to Eton Fives and charity runs.

Magdalene’s MCR has two punts, Springman and Bismarck (available March to November), and a kayak, Amphitrite (available year-round). These offer students the chance to explore Cambridge from the river, a quintessential part of College life.

For more details visit the MCR website.