Rayna Esther Felix

Why Birmingham Dubai?

I chose UoB Dubai because it gave me the unique opportunity to experience both the Dubai and UK campuses while earning a degree from a top Russell Group university.

The idea of starting my journey in Dubai, closer to home, and then transitioning to the UK for a more global experience really appealed to me. It felt like the best of both worlds, a supportive environment to begin with, and then the chance to explore a larger, more diverse campus community later on.

Why I chose to study Computer Science and Software Engineering

Computer Science is really broad (and it’s not always coding 😉), so don’t be afraid to explore lots of areas to see what clicks with you. One thing to know is that the Computer Science and Software Engineering MEng (Dubai) doesn’t just teach you technical skills. It also pushes you to develop problem-solving, teamwork, and communication abilities, which are just as important.

If you start in Dubai and then move to the UK campus, be ready for a bigger environment and new challenges, but also more opportunities. The University offers plenty of support, so make sure to use it. And try to get practical experience early, like internships or projects, because it really makes a difference after you graduate.

My Birmingham Dubai experience

Transitioning from the UAE to the UK was definitely a big change, but also an exciting one. The UK campus is much larger and more fast-paced, but I felt well-prepared thanks to the foundation I built in Dubai.

It took a bit of time to adjust to the new environment and lifestyle, especially being away from family, but the support from staff and friends made the transition a lot smoother.

Birmingham Dubai’s impact

Studying in Dubai gave me a strong sense of connection with the University. I felt supported, involved, and truly part of the community. Moving to the UK brought a fresh perspective; it’s a much bigger environment with more opportunities to explore, meet new people, and challenge myself in different ways. Both campuses have shaped my journey in really meaningful ways.

The best part is being able to experience the best of both worlds. I got to start my degree in a familiar environment, and then transferring to the UK gave me the chance to step out of my comfort zone, become more independent, and explore new opportunities, both academically and personally. It’s given me a broader outlook, more confidence, and a deeper appreciation for global learning.

Honestly, the biggest highlight has been being part of the University team as a student ambassador, both in Dubai and now here in the UK. Getting involved in Open Days and meeting prospective students has been really rewarding. I also loved being part of the Student Experience team back in Dubai, where I helped with admissions and guided new applicants through the process. These experiences made me feel truly connected to the University and gave me the chance to give back while developing skills beyond the classroom.

Advice for students

I’d say just be curious and open to trying out different things. And seriously, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re stuck. There’s always someone ready to support you.

Also, get involved with projects or clubs because that kind of hands-on experience helps you learn way more than just lectures. Lastly, remember to balance your studies with downtime to avoid burnout 😊