I live about 20 minutes away and have been to Aston Uni many a time, although I don't actually live there! As the guys there say, as it is a really quite small Uni you get to know a lot of the people from all over the place. The actual Uni itself is alright, nothing amazing, but its friendly enough and really multi cultural. Night life, As far as im concerned is really quite good, loads of places to go, pubs, clubs and bars take your pick! Sport, theres a lot to do in Birmingham and you can even ski at the snow dome a 20 minute train journey away! And as for the violence, generally avoid young kids (any race) in a souped up Golf or Merc for example. Avoid anyone dressed as a gangster! And generally don't insult anyone you don't know just to be safe! Luckily for you it may be called "Aston Uni" but your out of the actual Aston area, well the violent bit anyway. Any more questions about Brum? Will