Iqra Bi

Why did you want to study at Birmingham?

I wanted to study at University of Birmingham after attending an open day where I really enjoyed the welcome talks and English Language taster sessions. These were engaging, inspiring and made me excited for the course. The lecturers were clearly passionate about the subject and created a warming, welcoming atmosphere from the start.

I also loved the campus (and still do!), especially the green space and the main library. Everything is within walking distance from each other, which makes it easy to explore new study places and feel part of a close-knit community. Having lived in Birmingham my whole life, I also like that the campus is just one bus ride from the city centre where I enjoy spending time shopping, trying new food places or going to the arcade.

Why did you want to study English Language and Linguistics?

I wanted to study English Language and Linguistics because the course at University of Birmingham really stood out for how it connects language to real world issues and everyday communication. When researching the degree, I was immediately drawn to modules such as Psycholinguistics and Discourse Analysis.

Psycholinguistics interested me because it explores the relationship between language and the mind, while Discourse Analysis fascinated me through its focus on uncovering underlying meanings in language and understanding how language shapes society and ideology.

I was also excited about Phonetics and Phonology, which examine how speech sounds are produced, articulated and represented in the mind. I was excited to make use of the main library and study spaces, which have become a big part of my university experiences. Overall, the degree has deepened my appreciation of how important language is and how it influences everything from communication, identity to society as a whole.

What are your favourite places to visit in the Midlands?

One of my favourite places to visit in the Midlands is Birmingham city centre, where I enjoy spending time with friends, enjoying new food spots, and shopping. I also love visiting Canon Hill Park, whether that's for bike rides with friends or going for a walk to relax. I also enjoy visiting Thinktank museum, as it's a great place to explore science, history, and innovation.

Lickey Hills is another favourite where I enjoy walking through the woods and taking in the views over Birmingham  - it never gets old.

Describe an average week in your life

An average week for me involves attending lectures and seminars. Before each lecture, I complete the assigned reading which is usually one or two chapters or an academic article. Seminars generally require less preparation, as we complete activities and discussions within the seminar.

This week, on Wednesday, I also had a part-time work commitment. As a Uni-Connect ambassador for AimHigher West Midlands, I delivered a workshop at a secondary school for most of the day. Alongside this, I have also been applying for a volunteer opportunity.

How do you think your degree will support your future plans?

My degree in English Language and Linguistics strongly supports my future plans, as I'm currently exploring a career in Speech and Language Therapy (SLT). The course has helped me develop a deeper understanding of how language works in real-life contexts, particularly through modules such as Phonetics and Phonology, which closely align with areas covered in SLT's postgraduate training.

Studying language from both a theoretical and practical perspective has strengthened my analytical, critical thinking, research, and communication skills, all of which are essential for working with individuals with communication difficulties. I'm actively seeking relevant volunteering and work experience to gain insight into the profession and understand the impact of SLTs.

Overall, my degree is helping me build a strong academic foundation while encouraging me to focus on meaningful people-focused career pathways that allow me to support others through communication.