The MCR

Here we want to explain a little bit about the physical common room we share as an MCR community. It is referred to as the MCR and always open to all MCR members, whether this is for studying, relaxing, or holding events. If you want to book the MCR (which still means others can access it though), you can do so here

Location

The MCR is located in Old Hall, near the Pfeiffer Arch. It is on the ground floor, but there is a gravel path and small step leading up to the main entrance. When you exit Porters Lodge (also called Plodge), just walk straight - in front of you is the Pfeiffer building. You will see that this buildling is a little U-shaped, and in reality concists of two buildings (Pfeiffer and Old Hall) which are only connected in the first floor. You will see bushes in front of the other side of this U-shaped building, so at the end of Old Hall. Behind these bushes, you will find the MCR.

Access

All Newnham MCR students can gain access to the MCR with their university cards 24/7. Should yours not work, go to the porters and they can sort it for you. Opening the door can be a bit tricky: you need to place your card on the black card reader knob and then turn it in the direction indicated by writing above the knob. When entering and leaving the MCR, make sure that the doors are closed behind you. Getting out of the MCR can be confusing in the beginning as well: you need to twist the lock (there are arrows) with one hand and then use your other hand to open the second mechanism. But don't worry - you will quickly get the hang of it and this explanation will make more sense when you actually see it. Alternatively, you can always leave the MCR through Old Hall by exiting it through the other door.

Facilities & Equipment

Toilets: The restrooms are located in Old Hall. On the door in the MCR you will find a map explaining where to go. Please only use these toilets, as the others belong to student accommodations.
Kitchenette: We are lucky to have a small kitchenette in the MCR, which features a small fridge, a sink, a kettle and a microwave. We also have some cutlery, glasses and plates. This is a shared space, so it is very important that you always clean up after yourself. Clean your used dishes and put away any food. If you have left overs that you can't finish - put them in the fridge and label them clearly as open to all.
TV: The MCR has a TV, which you are free to use. We also have some DVDs located below the TV. We do not have a TV license, but you can plug in your laptop with an HDMI cabel that is there. We also have speakers that you can connect to.
Books You will find a small collection of books, which you are free to use and borrow. Also feel free to gift some of your old books, if you want!
Board games: In the cabinet below the TV you will also find some board games which you can use in the MCR. You can also borrow them, but please return them asap so that others can enjoy them too.
Sanitary products: Our Non-binary and Women's Officer always makes sure that we are equipped with sanitary products, condoms and pregnancy tests. Please only take what you need, when you need it and do let the Non-binary and Women's Officer know, when something is missing.
IT equipment: Below the TV you should also find some IT equipment that you can borrow for emergencies. It is for use within the MCR, but if you do need to take it away please bring it back asap as others might need it to! Some equipment includes charging cables, adapters, laptop chargers, etc.
Piano: We have a piano in the MCR, which you are free to use. Please be considered of students though, our MCR is located in a student accommodation building. So, no playing the piano after hours and during exam times, please!
Seating & Furniture: There is a large table and comfy sofas and seating area. We have really nice furniture, which is very old and therefore expensive to clean! Please be careful with it and very considered not to spill anything. Enjoy the cozy seating though!

General rules

This is a shared space, which means that there are certain rules that you should follow when using the space. As we are all already mature enough to know what a shared space means, you are for sure aware of these rules, but nevertheless we repeat them here:

Always clean your dishes before leaving (also after a formal!).

Clean-up behind yourself, both in the kitchenette and in the MCR itself (no rubbish left behind, no things left etc.).

If you use MCR equipment always return it to its place right after you have used it. This equipment was purchased by MCR money, and it is for the community.

Be considered of other people, who share the space with you (noise, physical space, bringing guests, etc.).

The MCR is an amazing space that we all share - let's enjoy it together!