Five Minutes With… Cordie Cross

My name is Cordie Cross and I work as the Communications and Marketing Officer here at St Catz.

You’ve just joined Catz, what’s been your first impression of the College?

Funnily enough, my very first impression of Catz was over 10 years ago, was when I was 17, doing A Level Photography! I was working on a project where I wanted to capture the juxtaposition of architecture (old and the new – it was very fitting!) in Oxford and Catz felt like the perfect location. I can distinctly remember being greeted by a friendly Lodge Porter and them taking a keen interest in my project, kindly allowing me to wonder the grounds capturing the unusual and incredibly striking, modernist architecture. However, since starting work at Catz, my first impression is that of community and working together. Everyone here has been very welcoming and encouraging – smiles go a long way!

 What does a typical day look like for you?

Well, I always start my day with a cup of tea, so it’s kettle on as soon as I get into the office. I’ll then open up my inbox and just make sure I’m on top of everything and haven’t missed anything, I’ll then either have a meeting with Steve or crack on with social media design and scheduling. Once complete, I’ll focus my attention to the bigger comms projects we’re working on. Lunch is always a nice way to break up the day and get the opportunity to chat to new people and find out what they’re working on is always interesting. Then it’s a quick 15 min walk around the block before settling back in for the afternoon.

What’s on your desk, what are you currently working on?

There’re always little tasks to be done here and there, whether it’s getting a quick shot at a formal lunch, or a post on our socials. But specific projects I’m working on include supporting the redevelopment of the website, a new social media strategy, as well as comms preparations for the summer open days.

What’s surprised you most in your first few weeks here?

Starting at Catz I was aware of just how large the College is, but I’ve been amazed at the size of the estate, yet how tight knit and friendly everyone is with one another. This has been really nice to see and experience so early on.

What were you doing before joining Catz?

Before Catz I was working at Kings Oxford, an international school based in the city centre working as their Media Content Creator. I started right after I completed my MA and ended up working there for four and a half years. I loved creating stories about the students’ experiences and their love for Oxford. The time flew by and I not only learnt a lot but also made some wonderful friends along the way.

Outside of work, how do you usually spend your time?

I love to walk (not too far though!) so I do my best to get out and about as much as possible in nature, making sure I’m hitting my daily step count! I’m a big music girl, anything 80s disco / funk and I’m in, and I enjoy attending music events with friends to relax and unwind. Finally, to the surprise of many, I’m also a big Arsenal fan. I spend much of my spare time watching games with my brothers and friends, mostly from the pub I might add! I’ve only been to one Premier League match but would love to go again.

Anywhere to recommend to visit/go out in Oxford?

I always recommend that people explore Port Meadow. It’s like a safe haven, just acres and acres of land stretching along the river, it’s fantastic, especially in the summertime. You can walk for hours peacefully, stop for a rest as and when, go for a quick paddle, play some frisbee, take in the scenery and wildlife, to me it’s Oxford’s oasis.

What are you most looking forward to this term?

I think the opportunity to meet and engage with the students is what I’m most looking forward to. This has been something I’ve not yet had the opportunity to do due to when I started, so I’m keen to hear from their perspective and share their stories.

Best spot in College (so far)?

I think my favourite spot so far is the Riverside, I really enjoy wondering down the path behind beech hedge, then looking at the various flowers, and watching the swans, ducks and geese. I’ve been told people in the past have spotted otters so hopefully one day I will too, that would be incredible!

Sum up Catz in three words

Kind. Inclusive. Optimistic.

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If you’d like to spend Five Minutes With… us, drop the team a line at collegecomms@stcatz.ox.ac.uk to find out more.