We spoke to LLB Law with Criminology student Samreen Chowdhury to hear how the Benussi Bursary has and continues to support her throughout her degree and beyond.
First Year
"I’m Samreen, a first year LLB Law with Criminology student and I am delighted to have been awarded the Benussi Bursary! Applying to the University of Birmingham has been my greatest accomplishment so far.
The Access to Birmingham Pathways scheme (A2B) has given me the best start and boost to my studies. With many Zoom sessions and activities, I was already feeling very prepared for university. A2B has opened so many opportunities for me, in particular the support that is available to get the best out of my studies here at Birmingham Law School. I was provided with a conditional offer which later became an unconditional offer due to my exceptional predicted grades.
I chose the University of Birmingham for my course, not only because of the vibrant city, but the excellent education it provides. The University is considered to be one of top 100 universities in the world. In particular Birmingham is a Russell Group university, which is what has attracted me the most. I feel confident that I will be able to achieve my full potential here at Birmingham.
This bursary will support me in many ways, particularly with my necessities: food, clothing, transport, equipment and resources such as books and printing fees. After my studies I hope to get into the role of a Youth Justice Worker, and help young people stay out of crime and prevent them from committing deviant behaviour. "
Second Year
"University has been a long journey with many ups and downs but it ended on a strong note. I thoroughly enjoyed the content and teaching delivered by Birmingham Law School despite having a different and hectic experience of teaching this academic year. So far it's been amazing meeting new people and supportive staff who are happy to help. University has lived up to my expectations so far, though I am looking forward to seeing what it can now offer, and the different opportunities available now that we have the chance to have in-person interactions on campus.
I was able to join the Holdsworth Club through the bursary that was provided. This gave me the opportunity to have access to VIP law events which took place online in relation to life as a lawyer and getting extra support on my studies and a better understanding of different topics. This played a part towards the progression of my law degree and especially during the exam phase.
Before the bursary, I did not have access to a laptop. This bursary has helped me to buy myself a good quality laptop that has helped my studies massively especially how learning became virtual for the year. Without the bursary, I was struggling as I am unemployed and would frequently go to nearby libraries to access the computers, though, even then, they were closed due to the lockdown phases and the restrictions.
Living at home, I also didn't have that added worry or stress of any financial difficulties as I was able to afford clothes and food and studying stationary, such as textbooks and pens. The bursary will help me to pay for any outstanding fees towards my career path and help me to progress in the near future to higher positions.
For the new year, I feel nervous but very excited to finally have an on-campus experience of university life. I am looking forward to look deeper into the property module.
The A2B scheme has been a life-changing experience for me and I strongly do advise all 16-18-year-olds to make that application if possible. The support system provided by the A2B has helped me to transition massively from my A-Level studies to a degree programme through many online events as well as kick-starters to ensure we were ahead of other students who were not on A2B. The scheme has built my confidence massively and made me feel less nervous about university and has trained me to become insightful and to always seek any opportunities that are available."