July 2014
Teenagers graduate with a first-class experience of UCB
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More than 40 teenagers graduated from UCB’s annual UniFest after getting first-hand experience of life at University College Birmingham.
UCB hosted the three-day event, aimed at providing high school students with a taste of higher education, from July 9-11.
UniFest is a free event for students in years 10, 11 and 12 and includes talking to current UCB students about their life at university, making friends and, most importantly, having fun. It is aimed at high school students who are thinking about university, but perhaps need extra advice to make the right decisions about their future.
The activities included mock lectures, where students discovered what it is like to be on a university course, and a “Freshers’ Fayre” where they were able to talk to representatives from UCAS and other local universities. They also attended workshops where they learnt what they could study at university, how to live on a budget, and what to expect from an average week at university.
On top of that, the three days were packed with a range of social events – just like you would expect from a typical university experience.
At the graduation ceremony, each student had their picture taken with a degree certificate and mortarboard – which they celebrated in the traditional style by throwing into the air.
Ruth Walton, UCB’s Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer, said: “This year’s UniFest was a resounding success. It was all about increasing the students’ awareness of the opportunities university offers, as well as giving them the chance to learn new skills and help boost their confidence. Everyone had a great time and we received lots of positive feedback.”
Here’s what students had to say about UniFest at UCB:
“UniFest was a great way of experiencing just what university is all about – and taking part in the graduation was a fun way to end the experience.”
“UniFest has really exceeded my expectations and has inspired me to apply for university when the time comes.”
“The entertainment was a lot of fun, and as a result of UniFest I am leaving with more knowledge of the opportunities available to me once I finish school.”
“I really enjoyed socialising and making new friends through the team building exercises. I’ve learnt a lot about further education options available to me when I finish high school.”