Olivia Llewellyn Jones

Hi everyone! I’m Liv, a second year undergraduate Business Management student! I’m from Cardiff and play lots of sports. My favourite courses are Advertising and Marketing Communications and Digital Business. At Birmingham, I joined the Welsh Society and the Medicine Netball team.

What is a typical day in your life like? 

There’s something oddly comforting about routine - even when no two days are exactly the same. Welcome to a little sneak peek into what a typical day in my life looks like! Whether it’s a fast-paced weekday or a slow, dreamy weekend, there’s always one constant: iced coffee. (Yes, even in the middle of winter. Don’t judge me).

Morning: Rise & Caffeinate
As soon as i wake up, I make a beeline downstairs and straight to the kitchen to whip up an iced coffee. Priorities, right? On weekdays, the vibe is go-go-go—think speed-showering, slapping on makeup with one hand while checking my timetable with the other, and making my bed in record time.

But the weekends? I get to ease into the morning, coffee in hand, maybe pop on a podcast or a YouTube video, and take my time getting ready. It’s the little things.

Midday: Campus Life & Catch-Ups
Weekdays usually mean heading to campus for lectures. It's a mix of focused study and spontaneous coffee breaks with friends - because let’s face it, uni life isn’t just about textbooks and lectures. Somewhere in between all that, I try to squeeze in a gym session (keyword: try).

Weekends are for exploring! Birmingham has some absolute hidden gems, and I love discovering cute, independent coffee shops with my friends. If there’s a latte art heart on top, you know I’m posting it. (camera eats first)

Evenings: Pub Chats or Pjs
The evenings are where I switch things up. Weeknight plans range from heading to the pub with my friends for a midweek debrief, to cosying up at home with a comfort meal (pasta is a top-tier love language) and diving into a movie marathon. I’m talking blankets, snacks, and zero guilt.

Each day has its own vibe, but there's a familiar rhythm to it all - coffee, connection, and a bit of chaos. And honestly? I wouldn’t have it any other way.

How did you know that the University of Birmingham was the right choice for you when applying to university?

You know that feeling when something just clicks? That was me with the University of Birmingham. I still remember the exact moment - driving past campus with my mum, windows down, sun shining, and that first glimpse of the iconic red-brick buildings. Coming up from Wales, I had no idea what to expect… but wow, was I in for a surprise.

There was just something about it. The huge sports pitches, the friendly faces milling around, and the overall buzz in the air had me grinning from ear to ear. I couldn’t wait to jump out of the car and explore (which I absolutely did, by the way).

The atmosphere was everything. It wasn’t just the buildings or the facilities - it was the people, the energy, the sense that this could be home. And yes, the sunshine definitely helped paint the dream, but even on a grey day, I know it would've still felt just as special.

Now let’s talk highlights: the sports facilities totally won me over and Vale Village sealed the deal. Honestly, that place looked like something out of a uni prospectus - but in real life. Picture lakeside views, buzzing social spots, and the kind of student vibe that makes you want to move in yesterday.

And of course, the course itself was a big factor - but let’s be real, uni life is about so much more than just lectures and deadlines. It’s about the community, the experiences, and finding your people - and UoB just felt like the perfect place for all of that.

Safe to say, it was love at first drive-by. 

What made University of Birmingham the right place for your course? 

When I was deep in my uni hunt era (cue the road trips, open days, and far too many campus maps), I visited so many universities. And honestly? After a while, they all started to blur into one. Same course titles, same bullet points, just… different fonts.

But then came UoB - and something about it just hit different.

It wasn’t just the aesthetics (although the campus is gorgeous, let’s be honest). It was the way everything felt intentional. I was genuinely impressed by how flexible the timetables were - a uni that actually understands students have lives outside of lectures! The weeks had structure without feeling rigid, which meant there was plenty of space for balancing study, social life, and a bit of breathing room.

The lecture halls also deserve a little shoutout. Designed not just for sitting and staring at a screen, but actually for listening and connecting. There was this balance of academic focus and social vibe that just worked.

And the cherry on top? Meeting some of my first-year lecturers on the open day. They were warm, engaging, and passionate about what they taught - it made me excited to learn from them before I'd even enrolled.

So while every uni offered a similar course on paper, UoB offered something more: a feeling. And trust me, that made all the difference.

What is your student experience like?

I know it sounds cheesy, but my uni experience at UoB has genuinely been magical. From the first day to now, it’s been a whirlwind of new faces, unforgettable nights, and memories I’ll be holding onto forever. I've met friends for life, and I really believe UoB creates the perfect space for that to happen.

One of the biggest game-changers? Societies. I’ve dipped my toes into all sorts - from fun social clubs to the very elite Cocktail Making Society (yes, it’s a real thing and yes, it’s as fabulous as it sounds). I joined the Welsh Society (gotta represent!) and the Business Society too - each one introduced me to people from all walks of life. And somehow, despite our different schedules and degrees, we all just clicked.

As for lectures, I know not everyone says this, but I actually love them. There’s something about romanticising your uni life - grabbing a coffee before class, finding your favourite seat in the lecture hall, taking notes with your prettiest pens - that makes it all feel that little bit more special.

And okay… not to sound like a total granny, but some of my favourite nights have been the quiet ones. Me and my friends, curled up in someone’s flat, doing paint by numbers while a terrible reality TV show plays in the background. (We’re talking peak trash TV. Zero regrets.) It’s these little cozy nights that I’ll look back on one day and think: those were the good ones.

UoB hasn’t just been a place to study - it’s been a whole chapter of laughter, growth, and moments that genuinely feel like home

How has Birmingham helped you throughout your studies?

Life at uni can feel like a dream - iced coffees between lectures, spontaneous nights out, endless laughs with your flatmates. But let’s be real: it’s not always sunshine and campus strolls. Sometimes, the little uni bubble we all live in… pops. And that’s okay.

This year, I’ve been faced with a few struggles. The kind that sneak up on you and make everything - from lectures to laundry - feel just that bit heavier. But what’s made all the difference is the support I’ve had around me. Both from my friends (shout out to the ultimate support crew) and from the university itself.

UoB really came through in ways I didn’t expect:

Wellbeing support was super easy to reach. No endless email chains or complicated forms - just clear, kind guidance when I needed it most.

I made use of the free counselling sessions, and honestly, they were a game-changer. No judgment, no pressure, just someone to talk to who really listened.

Letting my course know what was going on felt daunting at first, but they were incredibly understanding. I was able to get extensions on deadlines, which took so much weight off my shoulders when things felt overwhelming.

Uni life isn’t always picture-perfect but it doesn’t have to be. It’s in the tougher moments that you really see the strength of the community around you. And I’m so grateful that UoB has built a space where asking for help is not only okay, it’s encouraged.

If you’re ever struggling, just know: you’re absolutely not alone. And there’s more support than you might realise, sometimes, you just have to take that first little step. 

What advice/top tips would you give to prospective students? 

Okay, if you’re thinking about doing a placement year (like me), then please let this be your sign to start early. No, really. I'm talking ASAP early. I do Business Management with a placement year, which is a four-year course: one of those years is spent working full-time with a company. Sounds fab, right? It is… but getting there? Whew.

Let me tell you: the application process is brutal. It's competitive, fast-paced, and if you're not prepared, it can sneak up on you hard. Most people start applying in October of second year - yes, October. While you’re still finding your lecture hall and adjusting to uni life 2.0, there are already job listings flying out. It’s wild.

But here’s my golden nugget of advice: don’t wait until second year to start thinking about it.

If you can, start looking at summer placements or internships in first year. Not only does it give you a head start, but it also helps bulk out that glorious little thing called your CV. Trust me, future you applying for placements in second year will be giving past you a standing ovation. 

Note-Taking 101: The Game-Changer That Actually Helped Me Revise 

Let’s talk note-taking. It might not be the most glamorous part of uni life (no iced coffees or paint-by-numbers involved here), but honestly? It’s crucial, especially when it comes to revision season, aka the time of year when your highlighters and stress levels are both working overtime.

Now, a lot of people go straight for the obvious method: analysing the lecture PowerPoints. And don’t get me wrong, that can totally work. But if you really want to level up your study game, let me share what actually made a difference for me.

Ready? Two documents. One system. Big brain energy.

Document One: The Theory Tracker
This is where I jot down every single theory, model, or concept my lecturer mentions, even in passing. Doesn’t matter if it’s on the slides or just a side comment mid-lecture. If it sounds remotely academic, it goes in. Think of this document as your deep dive, it’s got context, examples, maybe a little diagram or two if you’re feeling fancy.

Document Two: The Explainer Sheet
This one is your revision holy grail. I use it to break down key terms, topic summaries, and basically anything I need quick clarity on. It’s like having your own mini textbook, written in a way that you understand.

By keeping these two docs separate, I end up with one that’s rich in depth and another that’s perfect for overviews and last-minute cramming (because we’ve all been there).

It keeps your notes clean, your head clear, and your revision way less overwhelming. Plus, when exam time rolls around, you’ll thank yourself for doing the hard work earlier on.

So if you're staring at messy slides and wondering where to even start: try this method. It’s simple, effective, and genuinely made my study sessions feel way more doable.

What is your favourite place in Birmingham? Why is it your favourite place?

Okay, can we talk about Digbeth for a second? Because if you haven’t explored this absolute gem of a neighbourhood, you are seriously missing out. Personally, I’m obsessed and honestly, it’s not hard to see why it’s been dubbed the coolest place in Birmingham.

Digbeth is one of those places where you just feel the vibe as soon as you arrive. Think street art, industrial-chic buildings, and that perfect mix of creative chaos and curated cool. Whether you’re heading out on a cute little date, a night with friends, or even just a solo mooch, there’s always something going on.

Let’s break it down:

Charity shops & vintage stores galore, it’s a thrifter’s dream. You can easily spend an afternoon hopping between second-hand gems and finding unique pieces you’ll never see anywhere else.

Foodie heaven: Digbeth knows how to do restaurants right. Whether you’re craving bao buns, loaded burgers, or something a bit fancy (but not too fancy), it’s all here. Bonus points for the quirky interiors and photo-worthy vibes.

Next-level nightlife:  This is where Digbeth really shines. We’re talking crazy golf, bowling, darts, and bars that look like they’ve come straight off your Pinterest board. It’s the ultimate playground for grown-ups.

Honestly, it’s one of my absolute favourite places to hang out. Whether it's a first date (or a fifth), a mate date, or even a "treat yourself" night, Digbeth never disappoints. It’s fun, it’s fresh, and it’s got that effortlessly cool energy you’ll want to keep coming back to.

What's your favourite memory of studying at the University of Birmingham so far?

When people ask about my defining moment at uni, they probably expect me to say something like finishing my first assignment or landing my placement… but honestly? For me, it was day one.

Yep, the first day. Suitcase in one hand, nerves in the other, wondering what on Earth I’d just signed up for. But that day ended up being something I’ll never forget for all the right reasons.

I’ve always been a bit of a people person (big chat energy over here), but there’s still something daunting about walking into a completely new environment. What if my flatmates didn’t vibe with me? What if everyone already knew each other? What if I brought the wrong kind of tea?! (Seriously, the overthinking was real).

But then I met my flat and everything changed.

From the moment we all said our awkward hellos and helped each other unpack (read: mostly raided each other’s snack stashes), I knew I’d lucked out big time. They were just so genuinely lovely, and within minutes, the nerves completely melted away.

Fast forward to now? We’re still best friends. We’ve seen each other through essay stress, paint-by-numbers nights, questionable cooking attempts, and some of the best memories I’ve ever made.

That first day was more than just a move-in. It was the moment I found my people and honestly, that has made all the difference.

What plans do you have for the future?

So, what’s next after graduation? Well, here’s the plan (at least for now!): I’m definitely taking a year out to work. I’m thinking lots of fun, low-pressure jobs, maybe a little pub work to keep things lively, or something marketing-related just to get my feet wet. But no ties, no serious commitments. Why? Because I want to take a whole year to see the world, soak up new experiences, and figure out what life really looks like outside the uni bubble.

After that adventure phase, I’m ready to become a full-on corporate baddie. Yes, you heard me right. Picture this: a 9-to-5 in marketing, working my way up the ladder, learning all the tricks, and smashing goals left and right.

And hey, who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be reading the blog of the Head of Marketing at Apple, written by yours truly. Ambitious? Totally. Possible? Absolutely.

For now, it’s all about balancing a bit of work, a lot of travel, and big dreams. Watch this space!