Harry James

What is a typical day in your student life like?

Have a slow morning, head out to my lectures (often watching lots of films and reading lots of texts). Working on my writing skills in my workshops and then grabbing lunch at the Bramall Music Building. Then, I'll head to the gym at Sport and Fitness, before going to dodgeball training, meeting with friends, or having a quiet night in by myself.

What made you choose the University of Birmingham, and how did it stand out to you during your decision-making process? 

UoB boasts impressive graduate prospects, and as I am fully aware that creative degrees often require extra legwork for success, UoB is able to provide with those opportunities with a much greater ease.

When I visited the campus, I was stunned by its beauty and really felt that I could see myself there. I also had recommendations from an older friend taking a very similar course to me, which gave me a lot of faith.

When the UK's second city and its centre is so close, there is always something new do to in such close proximity. Everything still seems very rooted in reality, which I prefer to the enclave-esque feeling I got at other universities.

Why did you choose to study this course, and what made the University of Birmingham the right choice?

UoB is one of the only Russell Group Universities that offers a 50/50 split between practical filmmaking and film theory. I would like to work in the creative industries, and this includes working on productions, however I still wanted to explore my interest in theory.

Birmingham is also full of wonderful opportunities to work with start-ups and businesses, and I am arranging some videography work with one of these. With BBC Birmingham located in Digbeth, there is opportunities so close to campus.

What is student life like for you in Birmingham?   

Student life – lectures, friends, hobbies, part-time jobs.

I usually attend all of my lectures as it's a great way to see my friends, especially if we are planning on going to Joe's Bar afterwards. I am also part of the Birmingham Lions Dodgeball team, and I go to most weekly training and social sessions (Sports Night is a must!)

I also enjoy writing for RedBrick, the student newspaper.

On the weekends, I often visit my partner at the University of Warwick, which is so easy thanks to Birmingham's very own University station!