Erasmus Experience in Birmingham, United Kingdom by Reka

Why did you choose to go to Birmingham, United Kingdom?

I would say Birmingham is very centralized. I used to do my Erasmus at University College Birmingham to study Business Management. I have been offered to choose from loads of subjects which was relevant to my studies. I would say UCB was a great uni to meet & socialize international students. Birmingham has very easy access to travel around England. I have visited couple of nice cities and the transport was not that expensive...you just need to book your tickets (train / coach) in advice. I would also very much happy with the local transport and attractions too. Party life at Broad Street, New Street and Arcadian Area was so amazing. You can never can get bored in the city. I also had been registered to a dating site to socialize with people. I would strongly suggest it if you arrive alone in the city. However, please be careful with people. I also loved the gyms around the city center where I have exercised the lot. It was also a great experience to have a long run in the canals or just buy a cinema / theatre ticket.

How long is the scholarship? How much money do you receive to help you with living costs?

My scholarship was 6 months.
I did receive about 1400 GBP in total which has been transferred in lump sum.
I would say it is very good to know ppl and keep your eyes open to ask friends / mates to help you to find any part time job. ( That is why I was lucky that I lived in the city centre, otherwise I am not sure that I would able to handle uni & part time work balance :P )

What is the student lifestyle like in Birmingham?

Students are very open minded here and they loving great parties.
They love to dress up costumes and make fun, etc. I really enjoyed that social part of my Erasmus studies. I used to live in the uni's dormitory which was a help to organize and be attend at those gatherings.

Would you recommend the city and the University of Birmingham to other students?

Yes, obviously !
My suggestion would to check their website etc and do not be shy to ring up them to get additional information. Don't worry just be easy going, collect your questions and ask them...they will be happy to reply :)

What is the food like?

Steak steak steak :D
I can also suggest fish and chips, haha.
I always bought vegetables and meet at the local market. I used to cook a lot for myself.

Did it cost you to find your accommodation in Birmingham?

No way. Normally,you do not need to invest any extra money for apartment / room hunting.
Just google them, make a phone call, check the post code & see the room.
They may ask you to pay for deposit as well.
My suggestion is do no forget to ask for payment confirmation / transaction when you invest money to book your room. Also, you have to care (catch up) the people in the house who are already living in the house. You should prefer to move together with students / young professionals who are already at work in the city.

How much does it cost to live in Birmingham?

I month costs:
ROOM: 350 - 500 GBP
FOOD: 200 GBP
Travelling: It really depends, approx 70 GBP
Other stuffs are depends on your needs....

Is the language easy to get to grips with? Are there language courses available at the University?

Yes, language courses are available.
I used to study Spanish as well.

What's the easiest or most economical way to travel to Birmingham from your city?

Take a flight.
Wizzair: BUD - London Luton + National Express Coach to Birmingham

Where would you recommend to go on a night out in Birmingham?

Gatecrusher :)
Broad Street any clubs - OK
New Street any clubs / restaurants - OK
Arcadian Area - Bit crazy, be careful

And for eating? Can you recommend some good restaurants in Birmingham?

Hmm it really depends on your taste and how much money you can afford to spend.
I loved to eat at Mail BOX

What good cultural sites are there to visit?

Honestly, I was everywhere.
Pls take time to check local info points & ask for the free map & let see everything :D

Is there any other advice that you could give to students going to Birmingham in the future?

1. Be very open and social, but try to spend your time with professionals,
so no lazy people
2. Go to lessons, do not sleep athome during day time :)
3. Let's care about how much money you are spending and for what....
4. Do not forget to think about your career development
5. Let's sign up for newsletter of
http://www.grad-central.co.uk/graduate-jobs-in-birmingham
6. Enjoy your life but control it under responsible decesions about everything

Take care, Reka from Budapest, Hungary