Formal Hall

One of the advantages of going to an old university like Cambridge, which is about to celebrate the 800th anniversary of its founding, is taking part in long-standing traditions. What we have found, however, is that access to such events depends on to which of the university's thirty-one colleges you belong. The college is like your home away from home—many undergraduates are required to live at their college for a year or more—where one studies, eats and socializes. The university is where you take your classes.

M* is a member of St. Edmund's College, which was only founded in the 1960s. While it is known as one of the friendlier colleges, we have spent so little time there due to its location and lack of amenities. A number of the older and wealthier colleges have amazing grounds, sports fields, gyms and social events where well known bands and djs headline. These older colleges also have elaborate formal dining halls where the head table, reserved for fellows, is raised.

M* and me

M* had been to a formal hall (dinner) once, but the dress was casual. Last Saturday evening, there was a black tie formal hall at Pembroke College arranged by and for Judge Business School students and guests. It was nice to get dressed up, and, as the program is ending soon, have the opportunity to spend time with a good portion of the MBA class.

The Judge football team's defense

The fellows were not seated at the head table until the rest of us were settled. An announcement of their impending arrival was announced along with a warning that photos were not permitted while fellows were in the room. All but one or two people obeyed—the offenders were given the evil eye by Pembroke's Catering Manager (I'm guessing his title). Once the fellows finished dining, had their departure announced and exited, the cameras were whipped out and the photo documentation of the evening continued.

Johannes, Michael, Taro, Tialda, Nicole, Maria, me, Manuela and James

Many colleges are not known for their cuisine, but I was impressed with the quality, taking into consideration that there were 150 guests. They even accommodated vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free and gluten-free diets.