Finding my right fit: why I chose to transfer to Birmingham

I am a second-year BA International Development and Politics student. I transferred to UoB because the course was more aligned with my interests in Politics and provided many avenues to practically deploy my skills and values. For example, the University offers a Professional Development module in final year, where you are required to complete a work placement and consider how your professional skills have improved and where you need to work on, to bridge the gap between university studies and the working world. Another example is the “Working in Development” module I am currently studying, which is taught by development practitioners, giving us deployable skills and advice to work in the field. Connecting theory to practice is especially pertinent to International Development given its focus on theory. Every lesson has a direct linkage to what we can expect in the field, and it really helps that the lecturers have a wealth of lived experience.

I had a meeting with the head of department that gave me a lot of confidence and clarity on making the switch. What really stood out to me from the call was how integrated the university is with its students. There is a real feeling that staff care about their students and want to provide them the best resources and capabilities to excel. There is a clear reason why UoB is the best for graduate employment, and I feel this sense of competence and synergy between academic theory and real-world skill development.

Another big reason I transferred to UoB was the campus and wealth of facilities. The campus is wonderful, one of the best I’ve ever seen, with a buzzing student community and relaxed, yet impressive feel. Everything feels accessible - I can meet a friend for a coffee at a handful of cafes on campus, grab some food at the two convenience stores, work in the library or one of the many study spots, go to the pub, and get home before the sun sets. I was immediately impressed by the Sports and Fitness gym that is no more than a five-minute walk from most buildings. On top of the gym, Sports and Fitness has a fifty-metre swimming pool, a sauna, rooms for exercise classes, and a climbing wall.

As a commuting student, I find the trains to be reliable and frequent, and it really helps that there is a dedicated train station, so I don’t have to walk for a long time. Even though I live nearly an hour away from Birmingham, I can get into university for my 9ams with no issue. I was worried about being out of touch socially given that I don’t live here, but I have been able to make some great friends from societies and my classes.