I am pursuing this course as it aligns with my research interests and the field I am fond of. Having already completed my undergraduate degree in Archaeology and Ancient Indian History, it paved the way to follow this course as I was preparing for it for a while before coming here. The University of Birmingham is one of the top universities in terms of research and the staff’s research interests were also attractive to me. Also, I had contact with a few of them prior to joining here which further became crucial in making this university my top choice.

What I appreciate the most about this course is the seminar-style of delivering the modules rather than the usual lectures and the regular mid-week seminars on various research topics of professors outside of this university which further enhances and keeps you engaged in the module. Also, the opportunities we get in terms of presenting our own thoughts and processes in all the modules are of immense value. With all this, the environment is friendly and ready to help me on this path, be it fellow students or staff.

In the past month only, this course has taught me so much with regard to how to think and carefully analyse the data be it an artefact or an inscription or literary evidence. Along with this, the critical interpretation of all these above-mentioned sources and others is so much treasured in the research community and how to evolve myself into this with my ongoing studies.
About my future career, my options are still open but this is just the beginning of unfolding the various branches of this field and especially in terms of academia all these aspects which I mentioned are far too prized.

My experience so far has been beyond my expectations. The entire community of students, mainly the postgrads whom I met through various mixers in the welcome week and further have been eventful. The surprising thing I believe would be the openness to make me a part of this University life as an international student which has helped me quite a lot.

I’m living in the University accommodation which is both fun and accessible. The city and its people are friendly and ready to help if you get stuck. Also, one of my favourite things so far is to go to the Winterbourne House and Gardens to read a book and enjoy the peaceful environment with my friends. Although I haven’t been able to wander around the city that much, one of the things I would like to do is go to a pub someday and watch a football match and get involved in the famous English banter.