Coming from a (very) small town to Christchurch and not knowing anyone in the city, I wanted to move into a hall in which I could meet a large range of people, but still know everyone.

The closest hall to university, Rochester and Rutherford provided me with just that and allowed me to get to know more people and make more friends than I may have if I had gone straight into first year flatting.

Being social rep for More house and therefore involved in the Student Executive meant organising and helping with hall events such as hall parties, themed dinners (Harry Potter theme), hall bus trip, girls cocktail night, Mo-May, quiz nights and the Chinatown themed hall ball.

Despite the added work this involved (including visiting EVERY Chinese supermarket in Christchurch), it was always satisfying when an event was received well by others in the hall. R&R provided great tutoring sessions to help with university work (and if these weren't of any use there was usually someone amongst the other 178 hall students who could help!)

Choosing to live at R&R during my first year at Canterbury provided me with a safe, friendly environment and has set me up for the future with a greater network of people and life-long friends.