Why I chose to study Criminology at the University of Birmingham

I chose to study Criminology at the University of Birmingham as it was one of the few Russell Group universities in the UK which offered this subject with a year abroad. This was important to fulfil my dream of studying in America. This degree is also 100% coursework based and only includes essays and presentations, which is perfect for my learning style. The decisive factor was when I visited after receiving my offer, I fell in love with the campus’ scenery and all the student support offered.

I originally became interested in criminology from watching crime documentaries. I was curious around how and why people choose to carry out acts which we define as criminal. I answered this when studying criminology at sixth form however I knew I wished to deepen my understanding in further education, despite never wanting to see another exam hall in my life. Funnily enough, when attending the University of Birmingham offer holder day, a professor stood in front of us and stated ‘if you have only the slightest interest in criminology e.g. crime documentaries, we will fuel this with all our modules’. I then knew, if I chose UOB, that I would not only be studying at one of the country's best Russel group universities for my course, but also an institution that encourages and supports its students' academic journey irrespective of the reasons for choosing the course. I also loved how beautiful the campus was with its cherry blossom trees and iconic clock tower, Old Joe, in the centre. When touring the campus, I knew I would be happy for this to be my new home.

I originally became interested in Criminology from watching crime documentaries. I was curious about how and why people choose to carry out acts which we define as criminal. I started to find answers when studying Criminology at Sixth Form. However, I knew I wished to deepen my understanding in further education, despite not being super fond of exam halls. Funnily enough, when attending the University of Birmingham offer-holder visit day, a professor stood in front of us and stated ‘if you have only the slightest interest in criminology e.g. crime documentaries, we will fuel this with all our modules’. This stuck with me and then I knew! If I chose Birmingham, I would not only be studying at one of the country's best Russell group universities for my course, but also at an institution that encourages and supports its students' academic journey irrespective of the reasons for choosing the course.

I also loved how beautiful the campus looked with its cherry blossom trees and iconic clock tower, Old Joe, in the centre. While touring the campus, I knew I would be happy for this to be my second home.

Despite Birmingham not being my first optional, initially, I can now confidently say I made the definitely made the right choice. Since starting my journey here in 2023, I have met so many new people, attended campus events like the Christmas fair, music showcases and department trips, I volunteered as both a student representative and student enterprise ambassador, attended several career events/talks, joined social sports teams and other societies such as the African Caribbean Society. I even became president, and events lead of The Caribbean Union!

And these are only some of the highlights I have had here.

Following graduation, I hope to use all the skills and experiences gained at university alongside my degree, to progress in a career of social entrepreneurship on both a national and international scale. This includes establishing and developing businesses to help resolve social issues, some of which may drive crime, such as juvenile delinquency, poverty, mental health issues and homelessness linking to several of my modules studied in my first and second years.