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Birkbeck workshop prepares Londoners for university study

An afternoon workshop on ‘Preparing to Study at University’ attracted a number of attendees interested in going to university.

Students attending Birkbeck's 'Preparing to Study at University Afternoon: Workshop and Lecture'

Over 35 people from all walks of life attended Birkbeck’s recent ‘Preparing to Study at University Afternoon: Workshop and Lecture’; curious to find out more about going to university to study a first degree or an introductory course, or to return to further study after a break.

Attendees were greeted by Birkbeck staff and students and received practical advice and guidance about returning to study. The group were taken on a tour of the campus, providing an opportunity to visit the College’s buildings and facilities, and to ask questions about studying at Birkbeck. They were even given a taster of a university lecture by a Birkbeck lecturer in Applied Linguistics - held in an actual Birkbeck classroom!

The workshop also covered funding undergraduate study and the financial support offered by Birkbeck; such as the undergraduate scholarships available for Camden residents from low income backgrounds.

Fentezia Teshome, a BA Film and Media student and recipient of the Camden scholarship this year, said:

“I wouldn’t have come to university if the scholarship didn’t exist, due to financial reasons. It’s a brilliant opportunity and I was very happy to get it. The lectures and support services available are great. I’m doing the degree to start producing my own documentaries and films, so the world can see my thoughts and ideas. My friends were surprised I have time to study for a degree alongside looking after my children but they’re proud of me, and I find the course manageable as I study part-time.”

The workshop was hosted by Birkbeck’s Access and Engagement team, who focus on the College’s commitment to improve access and success of non-traditional students in London. The team host a number of free ‘Get Started’ workshops throughout the year for prospective students of all ages, backgrounds and subject areas, who are interested in starting an undergraduate course at Birkbeck.

Sophie Swain, Outreach and Access Officer (Adult and Community Learning) at Birkbeck, said of the event:

“Very often adults, especially those who have been out of education for a number of years, may not have access to information, advice and guidance about going to university in the way that many school and college leavers might. Birkbeck is very much an institution that values the contributions of mature learners and those without traditional entry qualifications, and welcomes them into its classrooms.

“With this event, we really wanted to demonstrate that, and allay common concerns and fears about going to university, such as being too old, not having the right qualifications or being unable to fit in study around work or family commitments. Attendees were offered practical information and tips on returning to study, including how to develop the necessary skills for studying, as well as reassurance that regardless of their previous educational experience it's never too late to go to university, and also heard from two of our current students who shared their experience of studying at Birkbeck”.

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