Brum Bulletin: Student life hacks for your wallet
Spoilers ahead! Here's some of what's inside:
- Santa’s sleigh is landing on campus soon for our 125th celebration.
- Disability History Month is coming up and there’s plenty lined up to celebrate.
- Get extra help with living costs through the Student Support Fund.
- Smart student shopping hacks from student Sherese.
- Free footy tickets sound good?
- Last chance for two students to win a £50 voucher to a mini golf adventure.
News
Santa’s sleigh has been spotted!
Celebrating our 125th anniversary, expect a jam-packed programme of festive events, activities and loads of fun with extra sparkle! Mark your calendars for Wednesday 3 December, it’s going to be one to remember.
Disability History Month is coming
Soon we're celebrating Disability History Month to raise awareness about the history, struggles, and achievements of those with a disablility.
Get a hand with living costs
Worried about money this term? If you've used your statutory financial support and are still struggling to cover costs, the Student Support Fund could help.
Student hacks you need to know
Student budgets can be tight, but smart shopping makes a big difference. Sherese shares six tips to keep students on budget and off cereal for dinner.
Bag a bargain and support a good cause
Running until Friday 12 December, visit University Centre (opposite Spar) for a charity pop-up shop supporting British Heart Foundation. With clothes, books, shoes, it's the perfect chance to refresh your wardrobe or pick up a budget-friendly gift before the holidays.
House-hunting? Housr’s got you covered!
Are you heading into second or third year? Housr is your one-stop app for finding UoB Approved properties, connecting with trusted landlords, and discovering houses, flats and rooms to rent. Plus, you’ll receive perks from top retailers, just for signing up.
PGR Corner
The latest updates from the University Doctoral School (UDS) for Postgraduate Researchers.
Westmere: A space for Postgraduate Researchers
Westmere House is open to all PGRs and research staff at UoB. Whether you need a seminar room, lounge, or garden for your event, Westmere provides a flexible, friendly environment to meet, study, and unwind with fellow PGRs.
Share your PGR Story
We know that every postgraduate researcher has a unique experience and story to share. Whether you're just starting out or nearing completion, your experience can inspire others. Help showcase the diversity and richness of our postgraduate research community through submitting a written or video testimonial to be featured on our PGR Stories page.
Discover EUniWell: A network for wellbeing
EUniWell connects eleven universities across Europe to promote wellbeing through research, education, and societal impact. You can access unique and international training opportunities in areas like sustainability, science, and storytelling. Check out their website and workshop schedule. (https://www.euniwell.eu/what-we-offer/courses-and-training) .
PGT Corner
The latest updates for Postgraduate Taught students.
PGT Essentials: Critiquing an academic article
Wednesday 19 November, 14:00-15:30
Online
This workshop considers how we might think more critically and will help you to develop a thoughtful, questioning, critical approach to your reading. Join the Academic Skills Centre for this online workshop, followed by a Q&A. View the full programme of PGT workshops.
Dates for your diary (aka fun things to do)
Postgraduate Open Day
Saturday 15 November
Edgbaston campus
Considering a Masters or PhD? Hear first-hand from our staff, students, and support services about continuing your studies at Birmingham.
University Challenge try-outs 2025-26
Monday 17 November, 18:00-21:00
Council Chamber, Guild of Students
Always wanted to be on University Challenge? Now's your chance! The Guild are recruiting five students to represent UoB in the classic TV quiz - test your quizzing skills and grab some free pizza and refreshments!
Connecting Cultures
Wednesday 19 November, 13:30-15:00
Debating Hall, Guild of Students
Join thought-provoking talks, showcasing research that is changing how the world works and suitable to students of all disciplines.
Global Connections: an international panel and networking event
Wednesday 19 November, 16:00-17:30
Lecture Theatre 2, Teaching and Learning
Hear from our panel of UoB international students and alumni as they reflect on their time at Birmingham and career journeys, gain practical insights and ask questions.
Disability, Careers and Me
Wednesday 19 November,
Online and in person (Old Gym)
An event to introduce you to the Change 100 Internship Programme and the tailored careers support available to disabled students.
The impacts of technology and media consumption upon GenZ
Wesnesday 20 November, 17:30-19:00
Main Lecture Theatre (G03), Alan Waters
Claire Holland (CEO Saatchi and Saatchi) tackles the topic of GenZ's online existence, exploring key cultural narratives from this year through to industry change.
Festive craft fair
Wednesday 26 November, 12:00-15:00
Foyer and Mason Lounge, Arts
Whether you want to get a head start of your Christmas shopping, or fancy getting yourself a little treat to get you through the darker nights, the festive craft fair is the place to be.
That's not everything! Check out the full What's On page for more
Free footy tickets - you in?
Join us for the first-ever Knighthead Women in Sport Day on Sunday 16 November, 12:00-14:00 at St. Andrew’s, Knighthead Park. Enjoy giveaways and pre-match fun before Blues Women take on Portsmouth. Claim your ticket.
Using the Intranet
Student Content Shaper, Ellen, has created a Brum 101 guide explaining everything you can find on the Student Intranet so that you are aware of the support available.
And finally (any other bits)
Free bus travel for Christmas shoppers!
Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) has just launched an exciting offer – 2 weeks of free bus travel for shoppers! Plus, when you take up this offer, you will get your third week of travel at 50% off. All you need to do to claim the offer is fill out the form by 23:45 on Sunday 23rd November.
You made it this far — time to claim your exclusive competition entry!
Big shoutout to Business student Owen, who won a free UoB hoodie in our last giveaway. Could you be next?
Final chance to win a £50 golf adventure!
We're giving two students a £50 voucher each to enjoy adventure mini golf based in the city centre. Come and play the indoor, 18-hole mini golf courses and get competitive with pals, or challenge yourself.
If you have any suggestions for the student newsletter please email: studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.