Student review [#16113] for Law
at University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham, much like any Russell Group University, boasts a vast range of people – but the majority being white & middle-upper class. You know, the type of people to laugh at you for shopping at Aldi while getting taxis to Waitrose. The accommodation is either horrendously financially crippling (unless you have the privilege to afford it) or shockingly subpar, but it is best to be in the cheaper alternatives as there is a great vibe and community of people. There are all the facilities you could need on campus from bookshops, a library, study spaces and places to get food & drink. The main problem is that these facilities do not seem to be equipped to sustain the number of students – with getting a seat in the library as exam season approaches being like a scene from the Hunger Games. In terms of value for money, in reality, no degree is worth £9,000, but none more so than Law. There is no equipment involved, you have to buy your own books and the lecturers are merely glorified teachers. Edgbaston is a lovely area in one of the more affluent areas of Birmingham – boasting a great Uni Doctors practice, the UoB Gym, Edgbaston cricket ground and the glorious Cannon Hill Park. But do not be fooled into thinking it’s all daisies and roses, as across from Edgbaston is the abundance of thorns and thistles commonly know as S(m)elly Oak. Selly Oak has everything a student could need from Aldi & Tesco, takeaways & other conveniences, but it doesn’t come without the occasional violent street crime, daylight burglaries and harassment from strangers. Be careful when living in Selly Oak as the University prefer to take a “close your eyes and pretend it isn’t there” approach. This is very similar to their attitude towards mental health – even in the 21st century, I’ve heard horror stories of Students mistreatment regarding mental Heath issues. All doom and gloom aside, the student nightlife is great. Whether it’s a messy one down Broad Street, dancing to the early hours in Gay Village or raving in Digbeth, there is something for everyone. Try cocktails in Brindley Place and don’t miss out on big events like Pride, St Patrick’s day and other cool city happenings. The University of Birmingham is an experience and like all experiences, I came out learning a lot, so much more than can be taught in any lecture. Of course, it has its downsides, but I would not have changed my time for the world. And did I mention it has the largest free-standing clock tower in the world? So go, explore, enjoy and may the odds forever be in your favour.