Meet Aimee, a BA English with Shakespeare studies student
Aimee shares the reasons she decided to study the Bard at the University of Birmingham and her favourite modules so far.
Students and staff in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, Stratford-upon-Avon
Who are you and what do you study ?
Hi, I’m Aimee, a third-year student studying English with Shakespeare Studies and I am from Stafford.
Why did you decide to study this subject at the University of Birmingham?
I decided to study English with Shakespeare Studies at Birmingham for the opportunity to work with the RSC through the unique collaboration. The location of the university also appealed to me since it was near Birmingham city centre and it is close to Stratford-upon-Avon.
What is your favourite thing about your course?
The opportunity to specialise in Shakespeare! There are lots of opportunities to visit the RSC and to work with the staff at the Shakespeare Institute. Within the department there are also a lot of specialist academics so there is plenty of opportunities for whatever area you are interested in!
What did you find difficult when you first started studying at the University and how did you overcome it?
I think the most difficult thing is transitioning from sixth form to university. Part of this is learning to live on your own and managing your own time. The work suddenly becomes more self-directed and you work on your own schedule.
However, there is always support available whenever you need to speak to someone. The freedom of university work is exciting though, it gives you the opportunity to explore specific literature and concepts that you’re interested in.
What is your favourite module?
It is difficult to pick a favourite module since there are many different ones that I have enjoyed. However, I think my favourite module would be Shakespeare’s Tragedies from my third Year. It was a chance that I could really focus on pure tragedies.
It explored the earliest Shakespeare tragedies such as Titus Andronicus to later tragedies like Coriolanus. There was a real benefit to studying these as the module inspired me to focus on Shakespeare’s Roman tragedies in my dissertation.
There are lots of opportunities to visit the RSC and to work with the staff at the Shakespeare Institute. Within the department there are also specialist academics so there is plenty of opportunities for whatever area you are interested in!
What is your most memorable moment so far as a student?
My most memorable moment as a student has been travelling. I’ve really enjoyed travelling around the UK and Europe. There are lots of opportunities to travel as a student in the holidays and I would recommend anyone to do it! Especially whilst you have the opportunity and the student discounts!
Do you have any top tips for anyone wishing to study English with Shakespeare Studies at the University of Birmingham?
I would encourage anyone to study an English degree, especially at Birmingham. It is a supportive and welcoming department! There is also a lot of opportunities to be social with societies outside of academic work. Within English there is also a wide range of modules available, so there are choices available for everyone and anyone!