Madeleine: Why I chose Geography with Year Abroad at Birmingham

Why did you choose to study at University of Birmingham?

I chose to study at the University of Birmingham for many reasons. The quality of education and the reputation of the university was a huge part of my decision, as well as the fact that UoB is the most-targeted UK university by top graduate employers - looking into future choices, in terms of employability, it was my top choice. Aside from academics, however, the campus played a huge role in my decision to study here. The Edgbaston campus is gorgeous in all seasons and makes UoB a beautiful place to study in.

Did you face any challenges when deciding what university to study at and, if so, what helped you to choose Birmingham?

Like everyone, it was a challenge to pick one university to study at out of the many in the UK. What helped me choose Birmingham was their connections with international universities - I have always wanted to do a year abroad and when I learned that UoB has over 300 connections with universities in every continent and huge opportunities for studying abroad, it solidified my choice.

What is the highlight or biggest achievement of your time at the University of Birmingham?

My biggest achievement of my time studying here has definitely been my personal growth. During my time here, I have grown into a more independent and confident person - the university offered me the opportunity to go and study abroad in Italy for a year, where I was completely independent and able to grow academically and personally.

What are your future plans for after you have graduated?

After I have graduated, I plan to take advantage of the many choices of postgraduate courses here at the University of Birmingham to further my education and obtain a masters degree.

What skills and knowledge did you learn at University of Birmingham?

My course at the University of Birmingham has provided training in many platforms that will be highly beneficial in my search for employment post-university, such as GIS platforms, coding, and statistical analysis programs. Undergraduate courses also provide huge opportunities to learn crucial skills such as teamwork, critical thinking and effective time management. As well as professional skills, I have learned many personal skills during my time at university. Most importantly, the confidence to put myself out there to meet new people, try new things, and live independently in a new place.

How have your experiences as a student helped you to think about your future plans, or secure your job?

There are many opportunities for career fairs, talks and more when thinking about future plans, as well as the many opportunities for personal skills to grow. Additionally, there are postgraduate open days and information that has helped me make the decision to consider furthering my studies post-graduate.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying at University of Birmingham?

My advice would be to go with your gut instinct, where you feel like you most belong. The University of Birmingham has been a delight to be a student at for me, where I have learned and experienced incredible new things, had the opportunity to travel and do fieldwork across the continent, make life-long friends and a place that I can now call home. But ultimately, it is their decision to go with the university that they feel most strongly about.