Student Profile - Matthew Martin

BSc Mathematics with Study in Continental Europe

 "Matthew standing outside in a cityFor my course specifically, if you are studying a European language at A-Level or have a good language level, studying with a year abroad in that language is a great way to focus on maths but keep up your language skills with weekly language classes, opening up even more options with international employers once you graduate!"   

Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?

I knew I wanted to study Maths because I really enjoyed it at A-Level and knew that it would provide me with lots of career opportunities later on, but I also wanted to carry on studying French since I find languages really fun and had also studied it at A-Level. The course offered by Birmingham was perfect for this, and when I visited on an Offer Holder Day I could really see myself enjoying studying here; I thought the campus and surroundings were great.

What do you think are the best points of your course?

The best point of the course is the wide range of topics covered in first year that give you a broad understanding of different types of maths from analysis to statistics. Afterwards, you then have the freedom in second year and above to choose to specialise in something you find really interesting, taught by some of the leading researchers in this area. I also like the different range of teaching styles from large lectures to small group tutorials that help ensure we understand everything. Finally, the year abroad option is great for me, as I will be able to study Maths in a French university partnered with the Birmingham Maths department, which is really exciting. 

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

The diversity of stuff to do! There are loads of sports clubs and societies available to join at the University. Also, the campus is so close to the city centre which is great for concerts and nightlife. I also really enjoyed living on the Vale as a first-year as it was really easy to make friends and is situated so close to campus in Selly Oak. The campus itself is amazing, with loads of green space and red brick buildings, I really recommend visiting if you get the chance.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University? 

Becoming 2nd team captain of the waterpolo team! Firstly the opportunity to try new and unusual things such as waterpolo is really fun, and a great way to meet loads of new people. And being on committee as a captain is a great experience and good for the CV too, and something anyone can do in a society or sport, even if you haven’t had any experience of it before coming to university.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?

I was worried at first that I would find the course too hard as I didn’t study Further Maths at A-level, however this hasn’t been the case at all- all the modules are taught at the same level assuming no one has done Further Maths. Also, lecturers and postgraduate students are always on hand to answer any questions you have in office hours and guided studies.

Additionally, even if you’re not sure what career path you want to take, or not sure about doing maths forever, a degree in maths shows a huge range of analytical and problem solving skills that employers in all industries look for, so you really can do anything. So, in summary although Maths is a challenging subject, don’t panic as you’ll always find the support you need. And as for careers, Maths is a great choice to keep lots of doors open.