A Day in the Life of Anah
Meet Anah
I am an English student at the University of Birmingham. As a second-year student, my schedule can vary and is often full of activities. For me, the English department at Birmingham really excels by allowing you the freedom to pursue studies in such a diverse range of disciplines and modules.
7:00 Time to wake up
Routine is super important to me so I wake up at seven to get ready for my day, and grab myself some breakfast- cereal, or maybe toast if I’m feeling super adventurous!
08:30 Commuting
After grabbing something to eat and getting ready for the day, I then drop my brother off at school and drive to university.
10:00 Lecture
I reward myself for making it in on time by grabbing a caramel latte from one of the various outlets on campus before heading to my first lecture. I try to arrive a little earlier to grab a seat at the front and get the best view! I take as detailed notes as possible as this will be beneficial when preparing for seminars and assignments.
11:00: Library and Lunch
I’ll head to my favourite spot on the third floor of the library which gives a beautiful view of campus, and try my best to complete my primary reading. One of the things I love the most about my course is the research component, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the topics which interest you. After this, I meet up with my friends, pray in the Worship Room at the Chaplaincy. Then we’ll grab a meal deal from the Spar in University Centre (I would definitely recommend the chocolate croissants!). Weather permitting, we’ll eat outside in Chancellor’s Court or if it's a bit rainy then Library Lounge is our go-to spot.
13:30: English Department social
I love attending English Department socials as they’re a lovely opportunity to socialise with other English students as well as members of the department through great conversation and there's always some great food!
15:00: Seminar
Seminars involve discussing the material of the lecture collaboratively and gaining engaging insights from the tutor as well as your peers. Seminars are a perfect opportunity for me to propose and review ideas before compiling them in essay form. My favourite seminar this year has been for my Colonial/Post Colonial module, which has often provoked pensive questions about the legacy of Empire.
17:00: Film screening
One of the main things that made this course so attractive to me was that the English department offers the opportunity to take a ‘Creative Practice’ module, which allows you to take modules from other disciplines and departments as part of your study. One of the highlights of my first semester has been pursuing a module in Film Theory and Criticism. The Film Department delivers screenings of the films studied in their modules in their special screening room, The Carroll. I’m particularly looking forward to the showing of Twilight in a couple of weeks!
19:30 Winding down for the day
After a busy day, I’ll head home. This time varies most days, depending on my schedule. Before I head to sleep, I grab a shower, have dinner with my family, relax, and then get ready to do it all again tomorrow!