Brum Bulletin: Have an unforgettable summer
The Brum Bulletin - your student news
In this issue...
- We've got your summer agenda all lined up with three weeks of free events this June.
- Browse our Spring vacation opening hours.
- How you can win €1,000 by getting creative.
- Changes to the UB Heard support line phone number.
- Have you put yourself in the prize draw for £150 yet?
- UoB students blog about managing stress, finding friends and being neurodiverse.
News
Free events for you this June
Are you ready for an unforgettable UoB Xtra packed with three weeks of free awesome activities and events? From our Big Birthday Bash to the Campus 3K, you can now fill your diary up with our top picks from the month. What's On.
Opening hours
The University will be closed over the spring vacation between Friday 18 - Wednesday 23 April. If you're staying on campus, check out our reduced hours. Explore hours.
You can win €1,000
We’re partnering with the University of Amsterdam for the EDI Festival. Join exciting events across both campuses and design an art piece —you’ll win €1,000 if your design is chosen. Get creative.
Changes to UBHeard
The telephone numbers and portal link for UBHeard, our free confidential listening and support service for all students, has changed. Please make a note of the new details.
We need you... to fill in a survey
Student surveys are the perfect opportunity for you to share your honest thoughts on your university experience.
Not only that, every student who fills in the survey will be in for a chance of winning one of five £150 voucher once the surveys close. Winners will be randomly selected, so you might as well give it as go! Have your say.
Reducing plastic use
An initiative to decrease single-use plastic in food and drink retail has won the annual Shaping Sustainability at UoB competition. Find out more about the project and how it'll soon progress.
Managing study stress
From assignment deadlines to thinking about the future, being a student can be stressful. In this blog, Student Content Shaper Caitlin shares some of the things that help her destress.
Why I joined UoB Boxing
One of the main benefits of joining a society is that you can meet other students with the same interests. Student Content Shaper Alex shares how joining UoB Club was a no-brainer for him.
Celebrating neurodiversity
Recently we recognised Neurodiversity Celebration Week - an initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurodiversity.
To mark the week, hear from neurodiverse students at UoB on their experiences:
- Engineering student Robert blogs about recently being diagnosed with ADHD. Instead of letting this hinder his academic journey, Robert shares how he is embracing it.
- PhD student Katrina blogs about studying and working as a neurodiverse student. While recognising the challenges and the importance of leaning into support, she focuses on how this has empowered her.
PG Corner
Welcome to the latest updates from the University Graduate School (UGS) specifically for postgraduate students.
Call for PGR Talks Speakers
Apply to present at ‘PGR Talks’ at the Postgraduate Research Festival 2025 on 24 June. Present your research on the themes of Life-Changing Technologies, Thriving Planet, or Fairer World. Submit your abstract for the opportunity to showcase your work.
PGR Careers in Academia Webinar Series
The webinar series helps you plan an academic career and apply for academic jobs. Between May and June, you can join sessions on academic job applications, academic interviews, key drivers of the UK academic landscape, and more.
Black PGR Mixer and Networking
Tuesday 8 April, 16:00-19:00
Hosted by two fellow PGRs this is the first of many gatherings aimed at fostering a strong multidisciplinary and inclusive Black PGR community. Join for an evening of connection, community, and conversation.
The Postgraduate Work Experience Bursary
Are you a postgraduate with limited professional UK work experience? Applications for the Postgraduate Work Experience Bursary are open! Apply for up to £1500 to help you access UK-based work experience.
Your summer plans are sorted
From Monday 9 - Friday 27 June 2025, get 'Xtra' from your time here with us with our free programme of events, challenges, and opportunities. Watch video.
Sustainability at UoB
Stay in the loop about sustainability
Sign up to be a Sustainability Champion to find out about events and opportunities in sustainability, including internships, careers events, volunteering opportunities and champions workshops. You can also enrol onto the Sustainability Canvas Hub for students.
Our diary picks
From Eggs to Easter: What's the story?
Until Friday 4 April, 16:00-18:00
Multi-Faith Chaplaincy
Explore the Easter story and sit together to make tasty chocolate nests. All people and perspectives welcome.
What's next for Birmingham?
Wednesday 9 April, 18:30-20:00
The Exchange, Centenary Square
Discuss the future of our city with this special panel from the Political Studies Association Annual Conference. Hear from experts on ambitious plans for a truly liveable city.
Walk and Draw
Monday 28 April, 13:00-14:00
Meet outside the Barber
Come for a relaxed walk and draw and explore your campus. Discover new ways of seeing the sculptures, plants and unique architecture that make up the University of Birmingham.
Everyday bike skills
Wednesday 30 April, 17:00-19:00
On campus
Develop the skills you need to cycle on roads with confidence across three two-hour sessions. This course will teach you the correct techniques for braking and signalling, plus how to use gears.
Visit our What's On page for the latest student events
Looking for quiet and a bite to eat?
Grounded Café in Selly Oak is the perfect space for you to relax and take some time for you. Located on Bournbrook Road, the café is a community-centred café that puts wellbeing first.
And finally
Apply now to win a £1,000 grant
We’re offering all UoB students the exclusive chance to win one of ten Brighter Futures Grants, each worth £1,000 to support your studies. You can spend the funds on anything that helps you focus on your studies, like rent, bills, groceries, textbooks, or tech. Apply before Thursday 15 May.
Share your global story
Have you travelled abroad to study, research, work, or volunteer during your time at UoB? Celebrate the University’s 125th anniversary by sharing your global story with us. Submit your story before midnight on Sunday 13 April.
If you have any suggestions for the student newsletter please email: studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.