Jennifer Lippe

Why did you want to study in Birmingham?

Campus looks amazing all year round, especially the green areas where you can sit and enjoy lunch in the sun in summer. The music buildings are in the centre of campus and are great facilities to learn in. I was especially excited to have a 'proper' university experience, as in Vienna there is no real campus, and the university facilities are spread throughout the city. Having one large campus and student accommodations all around helps build a communal feeling. 

Why did you want to study Music - what stood out?

The Music course at Birmingham fit my personal interests perfectly. There's a great balance between academia, performance and composition which I couldn't find anywhere else. Additionally, I found that Birmingham was a great place to pursue my passion for electroacoustic music, as the university is associated with BEAST (Birmingham Electroacoustic Sound Theatre).

What are your favourite places to visit in the Midlands?

I have been travelling a little beside my studies; I especially love Malvern Hills. Malvern is less than an hour away and there is a direct train from the University. The hills are very beautiful and easy to climb, but even if you just want to stay in the town there are loads of things to do, including visiting the priory, cafes, bookshops and lots of second-hand shops.

Has anything surprised you about living the UK?

A difference to Austria that might seem rather insignificant is that when I first arrived I was surprised that you did not pay by cash on the bus. Austria still uses a lot of cash, while the UK is very card-based. I found that the money my mum had given me in cash to start out with was quite difficult to spend!

Is there anything you’ve found challenging about living in the UK and if so, how have you overcome this?

I sometimes felt a bit like the odd one out, as I had difference experiences growing up in Austria than everyone else. However, when I felt homesick or lonely I would start watching German-speaking shows that made me feel at home. What especially helped was meeting other Germans, there are many exchange students and meeting people that speak the same language as me really helped.

Can you describe an average week in your life?

My average week consists of Music classes, of course. I'll be working on compositions, readings and listening to new music throughout the week for my coursework. Outside of academia, I am part of the University Symphony Orchestra where I play viola and I play piano duets in a chamber ensemble. I am also on the University Music Committee as the Manager of the Ensemble Creative Exchange.

I have also joined 2 societies, one outside of music, so I can also live out my interests outside of music. I volunteer at the University at midday concerts in the Bramall music building and also at Birmingham Contemporary Music Group. Otherwise I work as a student ambassador on open days and helped with ID card production in Welcome Week. I live with my friends with whom I can wind down with after a busy day or do some university work with, as they are all also studying music! 

How do you think your degree and studying abroad will support your future plans?

As I am only in my second year I have lots of opportunities ahead of me. Studying abroad will help me show future employers that I am flexible, open minded and open to change. The University offers me lots of opportunities to better my CV with different work and volunteering opportunities too. I have yet to decide where to do my masters, as I have taken a liking to the UK and am unsure if I want to leave, but wherever I end up, the experiences I gather here will always be of value.

What have become some of your new favourite things after living in the UK? 

I adore British chocolate! Cadbury's Dairy Milk is so delicious and we sadly do not have it in Austria.