'I want to support an institution that has its heart in the right place'

Calling campaigns are an important way for us to keep in touch about latest university news, to share exclusive benefits and opportunities and for our callers to be inspired by alumni about how they’re succeeding in their careers.

The campaigns are also a vital part of our fundraising for the Birkbeck Fund, which ensures we can support Birkbeck students from all walks of life by helping them to successful start and complete their studies.

Here, we speak with some of our student callers who will be connecting with our alumni community. Introducing:

• Adeola Dayo, who is studying BSc Economics and is in receipt of a scholarship
• James Joyce, who recently graduated with an MA in History of Art
• Bhoomi Narula, who is a first-year BSc Psychology student
• Stephen Okere Bundou, who has recently completed a BSc in Data Science and Computing
• Bridget Rendle, who is studying BA Archeology and is in her first year
• Ruachia Sam-Jolly, a third-year BSc Psychology student
• Shay Wilson, who is studying BA History with Foundation Year and is a recipient of the Foundation Year Success Bursary

Why did you decide to study at Birkbeck?

Adeola: I went to Birkbeck’s open day and it felt like a really mature environment with a nice community feeling that I didn’t experience anywhere else. I also really wanted to study in London.

James: Studying at Birkbeck was the only way that I could juggle work, study and my caring commitments for my mum. Birkbeck has been so supportive, especially when I took an extended break from my studies while I had caring responsibilities. It was important to me to have the flexible teaching and support.

Bhoomi: I applied to come here through clearing because I was particularly impressed by the research facilities in the MERLiN lab as well as the Centre for Brain and Cognitive Development. I also really valued the low price of fees for international students.

Ruachia: I saw the advert for Birkbeck on the train and I thought that it was interesting that there are evening classes. I wanted to keep my job to support myself and study at the same time – that’s what I really appreciate about Birkbeck.

To those of you with scholarships and bursaries (Adeola has a scholarship and Shay is in receipt of the Foundation Year Success Bursary), what does getting that support mean to you?

Adeola: Getting the scholarship is a huge relief and a really good opportunity to get work experience. It was really inspiring and empowering to feel that I can work for big organisations one day.

Shay: It takes away that anxiety. By being granted a bursary, it must mean I am doing something right – it gives me that vote of confidence. It means I can worry less about travel costs and bills. I’m really grateful.

What do you love about being a Birkbeck student?

James: I had a really lovely tutor – Professor Kate Retford – and I always liked meeting up with her for tutorials. I have remained friends with people from my classes due to our shared passion.

Stephen: You are not alone at Birkbeck – that’s why they call it the Birkbeck family. Once you are here you are part of it. I really like that about this place.

Bridget: My lecturers have all been really passionate and knowledgeable about what they are teaching. The emotional support I have received has also been really beneficial, especially when I have doubted myself and felt like giving up.

Bhoomi: Here, everyone’s opinion is valued the same. In lab meetings, I’ve never felt that I can’t give my own insight – it’s very collaborative. It makes learning a lot more fun.

Ruachia: I like the sense of community you feel. Every time I come in here I feel welcomed.

Shay: Walking in every day and knowing that the people I am going to be around care about each other and want to help. There is a niceness about Birkbeck – I feel comfortable here.

Why did you decide to take part in this calling campaign?

James: I like the idea of working for organisations that I respect and doing something worthwhile. I want to support an institution with its heart in the right place.

Stephen: The last time I took part in the calling campaign, I got a real understanding about the causes I am raising money for. It made me really want to take part again. It made me realise that a lot of people wouldn’t be able to come to Birkbeck without that support. We’re removing boundaries for people.

Bridget: This is my second time taking part in a calling campaign and it is a very rewarding experience. By talking to alumni progressing in their careers, it can be very inspirational and motivating.

Shay: I want to give something back and to explain to people why I love the community here. I am excited to share my experience and talk about what Birkbeck has done for me.