George Wolff

How did you know that the University of Birmingham was the right choice for you?

The campus sold it for me. Everything feels accessible – a well-equipped gym on campus, plenty of study spaces and cafes, and a buzzing and integrated student community. If you want the exciting city life, it’s a five-minute train away, but everything you need is on campus or nearby in Selly Oak.

Why did you choose to study your course?

I am fascinated by how and why the world works the way it does, and how humans approach problems. I wanted to study something that had a real-world impact, where work needs to be done. I wanted to practically deploy my skills and political beliefs into something constructive. Ultimately I love learning new things so what better way to channel that?

What is student life like for you?

I am a bit older, so it’s more library trips and coffees than pints. My day normally consists of getting the train to campus, lectures, studying, cooking, and the gym. I try and make a new friend each week and have coffee with them – keeps life fresh! A lot of my time is spent coordinating InterVol – a student volunteering society – organising socials, connecting students with volunteering opportunities, and liaising with charities. Outside of that I work in landscaping to pay the bills.

What's your favourite memory of university life so far?

Sailing at Bartley Sailing Club when the windspeeds were very high. A couple of times I felt like I was going to fall in, but the euphoria and calmness of cutting through the wind was an incredible feeling. UoB sailing is fantastic – lovely people, who make the sport accessible to all, and great socials.

What advice would you give to current or prospective students?

Interact with the world and it will reflect back at you! Go outside your comfort zone - going on a date, trying a new hobby, public speaking etc. – so you can enjoy fun novel activities. You probably won’t have this much freedom again, so take advantage of your opportunities. Try not to worry too much and make sure to have plenty of fun!