Advice from Social Work student Oluwafikayo Erinoso

Social Work BSc (Hons)

Hi, my name is ‘Fikayo and I am a student on the BSc (Hons) Social Work BSc (Hons) course here at Birmingham City University (BCU).

Preparing to start is really exciting, but can be overwhelming too – I know only too well how you might be feeling, but don't worry. Below I have shared my advice and tips to make your transition into uni life as smooth as possible and hopefully ease any anxieties you might have.

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The best discovery I have made since starting at BCU

City South Campus is right next to botanical gardens, which is beautiful to experience all year round. Aside from that, I like how the student body panel is diverse and multicultural and how they always want to involve the students in everything.

My favourite thing about uni

I love how BCU has more than one campus as it's an opportunity to travel and explore the other campuses across Birmingham. Also, the Library at Curzon is 24hrs which is a bonus – especially during exam season. It has so many resources and lots of information available, including easily accessible e-books.

What I like about being in the city

One of my favourite things about Birmingham is definitely the Bullring for shopping. Also, Star City and Broadway Plaza are really cool leisure and entertainment centres. Birmingham night life is great too, I’d highly recommend checking out The Arcadian and Broad Street. Or if you prefer some quiet time, then the top of the Birmingham library on Broad Street is definitely a place to visit.

My top tips for students starting the Social Work course

My top tips would be: Don’t leave assignments till last minute, attend lectures (your attendance can affect your chances of getting bursaries in years 2 and 3), be prepared to be challenged in your views and thoughts, stay organised from the get go (save the stress) - and make sure you leave time to explore the city!

What I didn’t know before starting

This course has really opened my eyes and enhanced my awareness about the world that we live in. The teaching is interactive, varied and includes lots of practical exercises, which I wasn’t expecting and has really helped me to immerse myself in the subject.

My uni essentials

A few of my uni essentials include my laptop, folders and dividers, USB stick and basic stationery. I also like to keep photos and things with sentimental value to remind me of home when I am away.

I hope you have found this helpful. If you have any questions at all, please feel free to email the programme team and they will do their best to help.