Brum Bulletin: How would you spend £1,000?
In this issue...
- Are you ready for an exciting summer packed with events? We sure are.
- Tell us, what would you do with £1,000?
- The summer exam period is almost here. Find out how we're supporting you.
- A reminder that the details for UBHeard, your confidential support line, have changed.
- Do you want to create social media content and get paid for it?
Undergrads: fill in your student survey (NSS or UKES) by today to have your say or lose the chance to win £150! Postgraduates, you have a little more time with PTES and PRES - which close 27 May.
News
Your summer starts here - don't miss out
From Monday 9 - Friday 27 June, ‘UoB Xtra’ is back with a relaxed and fun environment where you can meet people, share experiences, and build connections that could last a lifetime. See what's on.
Join the Global Celebration
The UoB Xtra Global Celebration is coming to campus, and we’re inviting you to take part by showcasing your own activities, performances, or workshops. I'm ready to celebrate.
And the winners are...
The Three Minute Thesis Final showcased ten Postgraduate Researchers. From AI to examining an isolated world, congrats to the winners! Plus vote for your favourite project through the People’s Choice Award. More on the final.
Don't miss out on £1,000
Santander are giving away a massive £1,000 to 10 of our students through the Brighter Futures Grants programme. All registered UoB students can apply; the deadline is Thursday 11 May! Apply now.
Get exam ready
The summer exam period is just around the corner - you've got this but we're here to help. From study spaces to student advice, and workshops, find everything you need all in one place. Browse resources.
Updates to UBHeard
The telephone number and portal link for UBHeard, our free confidential listening and support service for all students, have changed. If you haven’t already, check out the new contact details.
Earn money by creating content this summer
Whether you’re into video editing, TikTok trends, writing blogs or being on camera, we want to hear from you. Find out more about becoming a paid content creator, working with the Student Communications Team, to showcase life at UoB. More on the scheme.
PG Corner
Welcome to the latest updates from the University Graduate School (UGS) specifically for postgraduate students.
PG Research Festival: Bookings now live
All postgraduates are welcome to celebrate 125 years of postgraduate research at the University of Birmingham. Join us for the Postgraduate Research Festival, featuring a keynote, research poster exhibition, PGR Talks and more. Tickets are now available.
Invitation for PGR Talks Presenters
Apply to present at PGR Talks during the Postgraduate Research Festival 2025 on 24 June. Share how your research is shaping a better future on the themes: Life-Changing Technologies, Thriving Planet, or Fairer World. Submit your abstract to showcase your work and raise your profile.
UGS Awards: Deadline Approaching, 8 May
The UGS Awards deadline is fast approaching. Celebrate excellence in PGR publications, community champions, and outstanding supervisors. Submit your nominations by 8 May recognise the incredible work within our PGR community.
Your voice matters, time is running out to have your say!
Participate in student surveys to help shape the future of our University. Share your experiences and stand a chance to win £150. Your feedback will make an impact. PGRs complete PRES & PGTs complete PTES.
Don't forget to take a study break
Assessments are a big part of your university experience but for many students, it can be a stressful time. Erin from our Wellbeing Team has some advice on how you can look after yourself during exams. Watch video.
Sustainability at UoB
Sustainability Events during UoB Xtra
Check out our sustainability events for UoB Xtra in the summer including micro-internships with the Birmingham Institute for Forest Research, a Lego play workshop, Reimagine our Future competition workshop and in-person training. These will enable you to develop your Sustainability Focused graduate attribute!
Our diary picks
Great Birmingham Run
Sunday 4 May, 07:30-13:00
Birmingham City Centre
Get a free #TeamUoB t-shirt when you buy your Great Birmingham Run 10k entry with us! Join students, staff, alumni, and the wider UoB community.
Artisan Market
Tuesday 6 May, 10:00-16:00
University Square
Meet local favourites and discover new traders from across the West Midlands at another Artisan Market.
No Mow May: Walk and Talk
Wednesday 7 May, 11:00-12:00
Winterbourne House and Gardens
Are you thinking about taking part in No Mow May this year? Or are you looking for simple and practical ways to help your garden thrive? Join us for a walk and talk to discover Winterbourne’s thriving biodiverse hotspots and learn more about our sustainable practices.
Academic Skills Centre (ASC) drop ins
Wednesday 7 May (14:00-15:00) and Thursday 8 May (13:00-14:00
Online and in-person (Main Library, first floor)
In the lead up to the exams, join the ASC for support on assessments. You can ask last minute questions about referencing, exam prep or where to find a key resource.
Vegan Market
Sunday 25 May, 10:30-16:30
Winterbourne House and Gardens
The Vegan Market Co. are coming to Winterbourne! With a host of independent, and eco-focussed companies selling various vegan goodies, and Grow Your Own hints and tips, there will be something for everyone.
Save the date: Birmingham Gives
Thursday 19 - Friday 20 June
Help celebrate our 125th anniversary by playing a part in our first giving day; Birmingham Gives! Students, staff and alumni around the world will help raise awareness and fund life-changing initiatives, including student scholarships, university societies and groundbreaking research. Help spread the word by becoming an Ambassador for Birmingham Gives.
Visit our What's On page for the latest student events.
And finally
Student Communications Graduate Intern job vacancy
Are you looking to build a career in communications? We have an exciting opportunity for a creative and enthusiastic graduate to join our Student Communications team. Open to recent UoB graduates (including those graduating in July 2025 only), this is a paid role on a fixed-term contract for 12 months. View the full job description and apply before Monday 12 May.
Collaborative Teaching Laboratory Cafe will close
The Cafe won't reopen after Easter but you can still access the Campus Express, just a few strides away. Stay up to date with the latest offers and news by subscribing to the Food and Beverages team on the MyUoB app (visit the My Subscriptions tile) and following them @uobfoodfellows on Instagram.
Volunteer for Junkbusters this June
We’re looking for volunteers to support Junkbusters in June. This scheme promotes a more sustainable way of living through collecting unwanted clothes, books, and household items that still have life in them. It’s a great opportunity to make a positive impact on the environment and raise money for charity. If you're interested, contact Meg Donovan m.donovan@guild.bham.ac.uk.
Free cycle hire
Whether it’s a trip to the shops or a sunny ride through campus, now’s your chance to travel smarter – and for free. Go Cycle is giving away 600 free minutes on West Midlands Cycle Hire pedal bikes, or 300 free minutes on e-bikes. Act fast – this offer is first-come, first-served and closes on 3 July.
Looking for an internship this summer?
Check out the B-Experienced internship programme which has opportunities specifically designed for students with little or no work experience. A great to chance to update your CV and increase your skills.
If you have any suggestions for the student newsletter please email: studentcommunications@contacts.bham.ac.uk.