Tarika Nair

Why did you want to study in Birmingham?

I chose a joint honours programme because I wanted to expand my horizons and try learning new things. When looking at coming to study in the UK, I was looking for somewhere quieter than a city like London. Initially this is what drew me to Birmingham, but what settled my decision was the university itself. This included the beautifully green campus, the programme itself and the generally very welcoming and friendly vibe of the university. I was most excited to walk around campus and enjoy the greenery.

Why did you want to study English Literature and Philosophy - what stood out?

Philosophy was what really drew me to the programme because I had never studied it formally and was very eager to learn about the different branches of it. Both subjects have very broad and interesting reading lists that have had me reading books I do not think I would have read on my own.

What are your favourite places to visit in the Midlands?

I really enjoy visiting Harborne because I lived very close by during first year and it's nostalgic for me to walk around. I love going to Cannon Hill Park near Moseley because it's huge and very green. It's also on the way to a climbing centre I frequent.

What are the main differences between living in the UK compared to your home country, has anything surprised you?

The main difference I noticed was mostly how easily accessible things are. I am from South Africa, which has definitely modernised in recent years but a lot of things available in the UK are not as readily available back home, for example public transport. It surprised me how easy it is to become acquainted with things like this, especially when you do it every day. 

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

The most challenging thing is being away from my family and only seeing them once a year because of how expensive travelling is. The main support system for me was spending time with my UK friends and going to visit them during termite and holidays. I also talk to my family a lot via video calls and that helps me feel less lonely.

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

My future plans involve permanently immigrating to a different country, either the UK or somewhere else depending on where I go to do my masters. I think studying abroad not only gives you a degree from a well-known and prestigious university but it also helps you mature. I have grown a lot and have become independent since leaving home to study in a different country and I think that resilience will definitely help me in the path of securing my future.

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

Many of my favourite things that I have picked up from living in the UK will continue to stay with me. I learnt how to rock climb at university and plan to do that for the rest of my life. I also learnt to be more varied with books I read and have enjoyed forcing myself out of my comfort zone to broaden my literary horizons. Having been a part of University Music for 2 years, I have also learnt to broaden my musical horizons and will continue to do so.