The essential guide for incoming Birmingham Uni freshers: Here’s what you need to know

Congratulations! You survived years of schooling, passed your A-Levels, and got into the University of Birmingham. It’s one of the top unis in the country and one of the top 100 unis in the world. Your parents are as proud as can be, and you’re already packing your bags. But before you leave home for a life of late nights and cheap takeout, there are a few things that you should know about your new home.

Old Joe

via Unsplash

Our clock tower Old Joe is the architectural heart and pride of the university. It’s easily the most recognisable part of the campus. A popular UOB urban myth is that whoever walks through the tower arch as the clock rings will fail their exams. Don’t be a hero. If you ever feel like flexing your knowledge, then make sure to mention that it’s the tallest free-standing clock tower in Europe!

The city

Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK. That comes with a lot of perks, but it also has its fair share of cons. A benefit is that you will never run out of things to do, e.g. our biggest shopping centre, Bullring, which is located in the heart of the city centre, is filled with more shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues than you could hope to use. A drawback is noise pollution. The centre is loud with the sound of constant construction, and motorcyclists with something to prove, so maybe invest in some ear buds.

Train station

via Google Maps

The University of Birmingham has its own train station, creatively called University, and it will make your life so much easier. It’s located on the main Edgbaston campus, and it’ll take you to the city centre in about eight minutes! Pro tip: To avoid queues during peak hours, pre-book your tickets.

Halls

via Google Maps

Enjoy a rundown of some key student halls. The green community is (appropriately) the most eco-friendly; Chamberlain is the poshest; Maple Bank is known for its parties; and Mason is the most popular. Some halls are more equal than others, so choose wisely! If you’re going to Birmingham Uni 2024

Campus

via Unsplash

The university is very photogenic. It was recently voted as the third most photogenic campus in the UK, trailing only Oxford and Cambridge. It’s a very green campus with lots to do. There are many places to eat, there’s a beauty salon, and the university has its own fine arts museum, housing Monet’s, Van Gogh’s, and Picassos. It’s free for students, so make sure to check it out.

Hopefully, this article has given you an idea of what to expect as a fresher at Birmingham. Disraeli once said that “a university should be a place of light, learning, and liberty.” Make sure that you take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity!

Related articles recommend by this author:

• University of Birmingham to implement new mandatory uniform next academic year
• Meet Ollie Morgan, the Birmingham Uni student who just competed in the Paris 2024 Olympics
• University of Birmingham called ‘ignorant’ after confusing Sikhs and Muslims in online post

Featured image via Unsplash