Chloe Tabbal

Student

I’m a BSc Business Management with Marketing (Industrial Placement) student studying at the Dubai campus.
Headshot of Chloe Tabbal.

A day in my life

A typical day in my student life starts with waking up about an hour early to get ready and grabbing a coffee before I head out. I only go to University twice a week, and on those days my classes start at 8 am. I usually have a big gap after my morning lectures, but since I live in student accommodation just 10 minutes away, I either hang out with my friends, grab some food, or stay on campus.

I like staying in uni even after my classes because I’m most productive there, and my friends and I usually find a quiet spot to study together. Even on days I don’t have classes, I often go to uni just to socialise and enjoy the good vibes.

I’m also part of the University’s tennis club, so after classes, I sometimes go with my friends to play tennis before heading back.

Why Birmingham Dubai?

The University of Birmingham Dubai was my first and only choice. I remember attending an Open Day and instantly falling in love with the campus. I also really liked that I’m able to study marketing along with business management, which gives me broader knowledge and understanding beyond just marketing.

I’ve lived in the UAE my whole life, mostly in Dubai, and spent my high school years in Abu Dhabi. I decided to stay here for university because I wanted to be close to home and in a place that feels familiar. I already know my way around, and I feel comfortable and confident living and studying here. I also really liked that all the student accommodation is close by, which was a big factor in my decision.

Why I chose to study Business Management with Marketing at Birmingham Dubai

I chose marketing because I’m a very artistic person who loves using creativity in meaningful ways. I always knew I wanted to study something in the field of business, but I also realised that courses heavy on numbers and statistics weren’t really for me.

Marketing felt like the perfect balance; it allows me to be creative while still learning about business. I also hope to work in advertising after I finish my degree.

My Birmingham Dubai experience

The place has such a great vibe; it’s one of those universities where you genuinely want to stay and chill as long as possible. My favourite part though, has been the friends I made during my foundation year. My student experience has been really positive so far. I’ve met some amazing people, which makes university life a lot more enjoyable. I love the atmosphere on campus; it’s lively but still feels welcoming and supportive.

Balancing classes, studying, and social life has helped me grow a lot, both personally and academically. It’s been a fun and rewarding experience that makes me actually look forward to going to uni.

Birmingham Dubai’s impact

The University provides amazing facilities and services that all students can benefit from, like the wellbeing team, student and library services, and of course, our wonderful professors.

Personally, I’m most grateful for my professors; I always try to build a good relationship with each of them. They support us academically through their office hours and make us feel comfortable enough to approach them with any issues, whether personal or academic.

I also received financial support from the University after attending and applying during their Open Day, which was a huge help.

Advice for students

My advice to prospective students would be:

  • Get involved as much as possible, join clubs, attend events, and don’t be afraid to talk to new people. It’s the best way to make friends and really feel part of the University community
  • Stay on top of your work and make use of your professors’ office hours; they’re genuinely there to help
  • Use the library and study spaces because they really help you stay focused
  • Most importantly, enjoy your time here, because university life goes by faster than you think!