Why the University of Birmingham was the right choice for me

Zoe explores why Birmingham was her best choice.

Aston Webb

Studying for your A levels and feeling the pressure to choose the right university can seem like an overwhelming decision. For me, the moment I visited the University of Birmingham’s campus, I knew I wanted to come. The green campus and the blend between the sense of community while being so close to the second-largest city in the UK was perfect for me. As someone who was keen to get involved with societies, the amazing sports facilities and huge choice of societies were particularly inviting to me. I have since been a member of the politics society during my time at university, joined a volunteering society, and played Netball and Dodgeball.

In terms of my degree, studying Politics, Policy, and Economics has also enriched my time at Birmingham. Studying an interdisciplinary degree and being a part of multiple disciplines has challenged me academically but also enabled me to develop both essay writing ability as well as analytical and mathematical skills. I also feel it has opened up more doors for me career-wise.

Aside from academics, the University of Birmingham has also been amazing for my professional development. I have been able to take on two internships directly through the university; one in the Caribbean for a politics elective, which was an amazing cultural experience, and the other, a Client Services internship at a mental health consultancy company, which allowed me to develop business outreach and marketing skills. I have also worked part-time at the university as a student caller, which has helped me improve my negotiation and phone skills, and I am a Student Ambassador, which allows me to speak with prospective students (like yourself) on open days and showcase everything Birmingham has to offer.

As I approach graduation, I feel confident with the skills and experience that I have acquired at the University of Birmingham that I will end up in a job that suits me. I am currently applying to graduate schemes in a variety of sectors that are of interest to me and am excited to see where next year takes me. Overall, the University of Birmingham has been an amazing and transformative chapter in my life, shaping both my personal growth and professional aspirations.

Zoe Devereux

A current student at the University of Birmingham.

You may also like