Winter Graduation 2025 - Birkbeck, University of London

The winter 2025 graduation ceremonies at Birkbeck, University of London saw over 800 undergraduate students celebrate the completion of their degrees at the University of London’s Senate House from 2-4 December, with events also livestreamed for family and friends.

Students were also congratulated by Professor Sally Wheeler, Vice-Chancellor of Birkbeck, and heard from a distinguished line-up of guest speakers, including award-winning novelist Abi Dare and senior leaders from psychology, media, business and organisational development, reflecting the diverse achievements of the graduating cohort.

The graduations celebrated not just academic success, but the many different routes students took to reach it, with graduates from across ages, cultures and life stages coming together to mark the moment. Here are some of their remarkable stories.

From India to London: how Birkbeck shaped my career in astronomy

Pranjal, an international student from India, reflects on the impact of studying Planetary Science with Astronomy at Birkbeck, University of London.

More than a language degree: Sean’s experience of studying Japanese at Birkbeck

BA Japanese Studies graduate, Sean, shares how studying both the Japanese language and its cultural and historical context helped develop his confidence, research skills, and employability, as well as a strong sense of belonging within Birkbeck’s diverse student community.

"Don’t ever feel you’re too old”: Diana’s story of studying Philosophy at Birkbeck

BA Philosophy graduate, Diana, reflects on returning to education later in life, the joy of learning something new, and how Birkbeck’s supportive community and inspiring lecturers made studying both accessible and deeply meaningful.

"Birkbeck allows you to build in life, while you're building your mind": Kris' story

Data Science and Computing graduate and Compass Project Scholar, Kris, talks about developing his interest in data science, gaining confidence through his degree, and how Birkbeck enables students to combine study with work and life in London.

"Studying at Birkbeck unlocked my passion for neuroscience": Vincenzo's Story

Psychology and Cognitive Neuroscience graduate, Vincenzo, shares how studying at Birkbeck changed his thinking, strengthened his research mindset, and helped shape his ambition to pursue a PhD and a future in scientific research.

Finding my place in law: Parmida's LLB Journey at Birkbeck

Now working as a law clerk and preparing for her licensing exams, LLB Law Graduate, Parmida, shares how her degree helped her move beyond career limitations and into new possibilities.

From TV Producer to Social Researcher: why I chose to study again

BSc Community Development & Public Policy graduate, Nicki Wedgwood, shares how her degree helped her change careers and recognise the value of her experience, voice, and perspective in the wider world.

"I achieved more than I could have imagined”

Studying psychology at Birkbeck helped Allal find direction, confidence, and a clear path forward in neuroscience, including publishing a book.

New Country. New Challenges. First-Class Honours

New to the UK and facing early challenges, BSc International Business graduate Rebecca balanced work and study, finding support, resilience, and graduating with first-class honours.

I changed to a career in law at 45... Now I’m a Solicitor Apprentice

Elizabeth decided to change career at 45, and started her Law Foundation year at Birkbeck. Despite personal challenges, Elizabeth’s time at Birkbeck helped her find resilience, support, and a new career as a Solicitor Apprentice.

Studying for a Master’s while running a prison charity

While working in London prisons and living on a boat, Josh needed a degree that could adapt to real life. Birkbeck’s flexible structure made it possible, and the journey ended with a first-class degree.