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Durham x Birmingham for Indian Students

I received offer letters for English Literature MA from all the Russel Group universities (pretty much), but I have sorted it down to these two because they cater to my subject needs. I was thinking of preferring Durham. Yet, I've heard of instances of racism and classism in Durham, are those true? Given that I am a dark skinned Indian girl, this can be a HUGE factor in consideration of my choice. I need some guidance to choose now...Help me please?
Reply 1
Ranking wise Durham will be better but what you have heard is not entirely wrong. However, it's more of classism than racism. But there are other side of the stories too where people were treated well.
Reply 2
Original post by subodhr
Ranking wise Durham will be better but what you have heard is not entirely wrong. However, it's more of classism than racism. But there are other side of the stories too where people were treated well.

Thank you for the answer! I guess I must brave some drawback or the other for either universities. As you said, there are two sides of the experiences!
Original post by Shamayita
I received offer letters for English Literature MA from all the Russel Group universities (pretty much), but I have sorted it down to these two because they cater to my subject needs. I was thinking of preferring Durham. Yet, I've heard of instances of racism and classism in Durham, are those true? Given that I am a dark skinned Indian girl, this can be a HUGE factor in consideration of my choice. I need some guidance to choose now...Help me please?

Hi there

Congratulations on your offers!

I completely understand your concerns as I'm from India too. It's true that some people have these experiences, however it's not the same for everyone. I haven't faced any racism in Durham, although I know a few people who have. It will ultimately boil down to which people you interact with and that's not something unique to Durham as you can find such discrimination anywhere.

The diversity at the university has also increased massively compared to my first year (I'm now in my final year) as more and more international students are coming in, so you will easily find people from your background too. I would suggest that although being aware of this situation is important, it's best not to let it completely deter you from firming Durham because it really is a nice place :smile:

-Himieka
Reply 4
Original post by Shamayita
I received offer letters for English Literature MA from all the Russel Group universities (pretty much), but I have sorted it down to these two because they cater to my subject needs. I was thinking of preferring Durham. Yet, I've heard of instances of racism and classism in Durham, are those true? Given that I am a dark skinned Indian girl, this can be a HUGE factor in consideration of my choice. I need some guidance to choose now...Help me please?

There are loads of international students at Durham. The issues are around class rather than race and this would be similar to many other unis.

If you are keen to stay close to your community, you should go for Birmingham due to a sizeable Asian and Indian community. However, i would suggest that you consider the benefits of Durham before making a decisions.

Good luck
Reply 5
Original post by Shamayita
Thank you for the answer! I guess I must brave some drawback or the other for either universities. As you said, there are two sides of the experiences!

Also, if you have offer from Warwick too then I strongly suggest you explore that option too. It's a fantastic all round University in UK. And if you prefer to live in London then UCL is not a bad choice too (if you have offer from there). Do you mind to tell what all offers you have please?
(edited 10 months ago)
Reply 6
Original post by Durham Students
Hi there
Congratulations on your offers!
I completely understand your concerns as I'm from India too. It's true that some people have these experiences, however it's not the same for everyone. I haven't faced any racism in Durham, although I know a few people who have. It will ultimately boil down to which people you interact with and that's not something unique to Durham as you can find such discrimination anywhere.
The diversity at the university has also increased massively compared to my first year (I'm now in my final year) as more and more international students are coming in, so you will easily find people from your background too. I would suggest that although being aware of this situation is important, it's best not to let it completely deter you from firming Durham because it really is a nice place :smile:
-Himieka

Thank you so much Himieka! I have accepted my offer. So, I guess I might meet you this September!
Reply 7
Original post by Shamayita
Thank you so much Himieka! I have accepted my offer. So, I guess I might meet you this September!

Congratulations Shamayita. Wish you very best. You have chosen a very good Uni for your study. Just make good friends and live a cool life. You will be al'right. UK as a whole is very progressive nation and minor classism doesn't matter much
Reply 8
Original post by subodhr
Congratulations Shamayita. Wish you very best. You have chosen a very good Uni for your study. Just make good friends and live a cool life. You will be al'right. UK as a whole is very progressive nation and minor classism doesn't matter much

Thank you so much for your kind words!

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