Oliver Kelly

Why did you originally apply to do BSc Mathematics at Birmingham?

Maths is the one subject I have always enjoyed all the way from primary school. When I got to my A-Levels and was deciding which subject I wanted to study at university, I just knew it had to be Maths. Despite it not being my best subject academically, it was the challenge that it provided and the limitless opportunities that attracted me to study it at Birmingham (which is one of the top universities for maths).

What do you think are the best points of your course?

Maths is one of the most diverse subjects out there- the course allows you to experience the full range of opportunities that a degree can open up to you. Across the three or four years of studying Maths you get the chance to develop an understanding of a whole variety of aspects of the subject, with research job opportunities across the course to further this understanding and to offer you the chance to gain experience outside of your studies.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

I would say the best thing about studying at Birmingham is the support and assistance provided to all students from the second you join the University. Especially within the School of Maths, there is constant support throughout the whole time you're at university to support you with both your studies and external problems. Also this support continues after university, as the University's careers service is always available to Birmingham graduates to help them get the most out of their degree.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

The highlight of my time at the University (other than making the most amazing group of friends on my course) would be joining Valefest, a student group which organises Europe’s largest student-run charity festival. Valefest allowed me to continue doing all the things I loved outside of maths; I had the amazing opportunity to work on the festival as a graphic designer for 2022, and then as Vice-Chair of the festival in 2023. The experience opened my eyes to a whole new job industry that I had never thought about before, and I got to work with the best group of students to plan an incredible day of music and entertainment, all for charity!!

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying BSc Mathematics?

Don’t just choose to study a degree because of the potential job prospects it provides, or because it is seen as desirable. If you want to study Maths at university, choose it because its something you enjoy and have an interest in! The course can be challenging at times, but its so rewarding, and the more you are interested and have a genuine passion for the course the more you will be able to get out of it.