Championing access and opportunity: Meet our new telephone fundraisers

These conversations are a wonderful way to stay connected — sharing the latest news from the university, highlighting exclusive opportunities and benefits, and giving our students the chance to hear inspiring stories from alumni about their careers and experiences.

Running from 3 November to 29 November, this year’s campaign aims to build on the fantastic success of our previous two, continuing to strengthen the bonds across our Birkbeck community. The campaign also plays a vital role in supporting the Birkbeck Fund, which helps students from all backgrounds to thrive — from starting their studies to successfully completing their degrees.

Here, we meet four of our new student callers who are reaching out to our alumni community. Introducing:

Nahi Chehaitli, who is studying MSc Health and Clinical Psychological Sciences

Aleix, who is studying MA Psychoanalytic Studies part-time

Isabel Lilie, who is studying MSc Cognitive Neuroscience and Neuropsychology

Farha Uddin, who is studying LLB Law

Why did you decide to study at Birkbeck?

Nahi: I came to Birkbeck because of its reputation and off the recommendation of a friend who is also a Birkbeck alumnus. I am from Lebanon and came into the country initially as a student but was then granted a humanitarian protection visa. I knew Birkbeck offered a lot of support to refugees, which appealed to me. Since I started, I have been very happy with my experience – I am learning a lot, particularly about valuable research methods.

Aleix: With the course I am studying, there aren’t very many options in Europe and many of the courses are very expensive. I was drawn to Birkbeck, because the research and work of Professor Lisa Baraitser, Professor of Psychosocial Theory, particularly resonated with me.

Isabel: The psychology programmes at Birkbeck appealed to me because there’s a lot of cool research projects happening especially in collaboration with UCL. I am from Texas and I knew I wanted to come to London for Higher Education. I looked at different universities and I looked at stories and feedback from alumni. What drew me to Birkbeck was the focus on the student experience and how students are supported and cared for.

Farha: My sister-in-law graduated from Birkbeck with a degree in Geography and she had such a good experience that I knew I had to go to an open evening. I loved the type of people that study here, especially the number of mature students. It has a really nice vibe.

What do you love about being a Birkbeck student?

Nahi: I’ve made some cool friends and I’m enjoying learning from my professors and colleagues. Birkbeck is such a welcoming place – I feel like I belong, which is a new experience for me. I am loving the university experience.

Aleix: Students here come from completely different backgrounds. On my course, for instance, one of my colleagues was nominated for a BAFTA and another is a retired nurse. I love the diversity here. The more diverse a place is, the more enriching the learning and socialising experience is.

Isabel: There are so many great opportunities to get involved and connect with Birkbeck so that you can really feel part of things here. It does feel like a special place.

Farha: The biggest thing for me is the community that exists here at Birkbeck. I have joined so many societies and it’s been lovely to connect with people.

Why did you decide to take part in this calling campaign?

Nahi: This opportunity was relevant to my skills and experiences – I also volunteer for a suicide helpline. I thought this role could help me make an impact by helping somebody else get the support that they need.

Aleix: I think it’s important what Birkbeck is doing to help people access education. Education can change people’s lives and I want to help give opportunities to people who otherwise wouldn’t be able to come to Birkbeck. I want to give people a chance.

Isabel: As an undergraduate, I received a scholarship, which was the only reason I could go to university. I feel like it’s important to connect people with these resources. I’m also looking forward to speaking with alumni and hearing their stories – I’m sure they will motivate me.

Farha: I have accessed hardship support in the past and I definitely now want to give back and tell my story.