Blog: What I'm looking forward to during UoB Xtra 2025

Hey, I’m Mahina Wong, one of your Student Content Shapers and a final year Drama and Theatre Arts student! 

Student Content Shaper Mahina stands outside the Arts building.

Between tackling assignments, exams, and dissertations, UoB Xtra is here to bring us some much-needed fun.  

Taking place over three weeks in June, there’s so much happening this year. Here are some of the free events and activities that I'm most looking forward to...  

Free outdoor cinema 

Last year, I had an amazing time at the Outdoor Cinema, where I spent a chilled evening with friends watching a movie under the summer sky. I’m not a huge film fanatic, but my friends convinced me to go, and honestly, I’m so glad they did! It was such a fun experience, surrounded by nature and good company. The film I watched was Mamma Mia!, which I’d not watched before but had heard many great things about. An outdoor cinema was something I’d never tried before, especially coming from back home, but it was a super fun experience watching a movie outdoors with my friends! I can’t wait to see what films are on this year.  

Campus 3K 

This year, I’m super excited for the return of the Campus 3K Your Way! Over Easter, I picked up running as a hobby, so this event is right up my alley. Although you can run, walk or jog your way around the course, I’m excited to run the scenic route around campus with my friends. We’ve already started training together to prepare. It’s such a great way to mark the end of our university journey! Registrations are still open if you want to take part too.  

Ten Talks 

Although I study Drama, I’ve always had interests beyond the arts, like healthcare, politics, and AI. If, like me, you love exploring topics outside your degree make sure to check out the various Ten Talk sessions. During the second week of UoB Xtra, you can sign up to hear thought-provoking presentations from leading academics, public figures, and student groups. I’m especially looking forward to: 

These sessions all cover topics I find super fascinating! 

Celebrating 125 years of UoB  

And of course, it wouldn’t be UoB Xtra without a big celebration, especially for our 125th anniversary! Don’t miss The Big Birthday Bash happening in the first week, complete with party games and inflatables. I seriously can’t wait! 

What’s in your diary already for UoB Xtra? There’s lots to get involved in and most importantly, nearly all the events and activities are free! Fun doesn’t have to be costly when you’re a student here, so don’t miss out. Can’t wait to see you at the events! 

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