Luke Bartley

bartley-lukeBSc Sport and Exercise Sciences with an International Year

“By studying here I was able to undertake a year abroad in the USA at the University of Kansas. This was an unforgettable experience and I would encourage anyone to study abroad.”

Why I chose Birmingham

I initially applied for Physiotherapy but was unsuccessful. Birmingham offered me a place to study Sport and Exercise Sciences as an alternative and after attending an applicant open day I fell in love with the place. The campus is stunning and the new sports centre and library would be incentive for me to study here as a prospective student.

What is unique about my course

The course is consistently ranked in the top 5 in the country, which is due to student satisfaction, teaching quality and the research that occurs in the school. The lecturers (especially the programme lead) are friendly and passionate about their field of research. They are also happy to help students when they have issues with course content or assignments.

My personal highlight

This was not necessarily in Birmingham, but by studying here I was able to undertake a year abroad in the USA at the University of Kansas. This was an unforgettable experience and I would encourage anyone to study abroad. You will get the chance to experience another culture, make friends/connections from all over the world, and you will be able to travel when you have time off/complete the year.

Living in Birmingham

As it is the second largest city in the UK there is always plenty to do. It is easy to pop into the city centre on the train from University station or Selly Oak. The student area in Selly Oak is always buzzing; with all the essentials there, including an array of supermarkets, pubs, restaurants and take-aways.

Clubs, societies or events I've been involved in

I played rugby in my first 2 years, and since I started University I have made use of the gym in the Munrow Sports Centre. The new sports centre looks like it will be one of the best university gyms in the UK so this would attract me as a prospective student. I also competed in the MASS Student Physique Championships in March 2016, which is a student bodybuilding/physique competition.

My aspirations for the future

To become a physiotherapist, which can be achieved by being accepted onto the MSc Physiotherapy (Pre-registration) course (which is also available at the University)

My top tips for prospective Birmingham students

Any of the following:

  • Undertake a year abroad
  • Use your time effectively
  • Join a sports team/society where you will be able to meet plenty of people with similar interests to you
  • Undertake work experience placements