As our final year students head towards the end of their time with us at University, we asked a few of them to reflect on their journey and experiences with us so far.
English students Sophie and Katie answer a few questions on their views on the university, their chosen course and their future plans.
Why did you initially apply to study in Birmingham?
Sophie: The city life! I wanted to be near everything.
Katie: I currently live in Wolverhampton and wanted to live at home and commute. I have school friends who chose Birmingham City University and I heard really positive things. I also like how the campus is in the city centre and very accessible.
How have you found your time at the university so far?
Sophie: It has been great, I have loved it! I would say it has been the best three years of my life. I love the School of English, the classes are great and I have made some good friends. Everything is so organised, everyone knows who you are, what you’re doing, what you’re interested in and what you’re not so keen on. You might even become friends with the academics more so than you are with the students!
Katie: You get such a sense of a community and there is so much support, there is always someone there to help you out. You are never alone, there are so many opportunities for you to find and take advantage of.
Have you taken part in a work experience placement?
Sophie: I did a couple of placements in my first year at local schools. I am now thinking of doing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education. I have also taken part in a few external visits, including research and theatre trips which were fun.
Katie: I did a week’s placement at the Metro newspaper in London, as I am thinking of going into journalism. I really enjoyed it! Ideally I would like a career in fashion journalism, it looks like such good fun!
What advice would you give to potential students as they choose their university?
Sophie: This is so cliché but go with what feels right. Out of all the universities I applied to, Birmingham City University is where I thought I would be happiest. I visited a couple where I didn’t even need to leave the car, I just knew it wasn’t for me. Your gut feeling is always right.
Katie: Go to open days! You don’t need to know exactly what you want to be or what you want to study, just an initial idea. There are loads of people around to help so just ask lots of questions and they can point you in the right direction. I have friends who chose universities’ solely based on location and didn’t attend the open days and they are not entirely happy with their choice. I literally cannot brag enough about how good Birmingham City University has been!
