Vipin Shaji

A day in my life

This year, I’m on an exchange at the Edgbaston (UK) campus. A typical day usually starts with lectures in the morning, where we cover topics in Psychology like cognition, mental health, or social behaviour. I often grab a coffee on campus before class and review my notes to stay on top of things.

After lectures, I might have a seminar or lab session where we discuss case studies or work on research tasks. I also spend time in the library or Collaborative Learning Space to study independently or work on group projects.

In the afternoon, I like to go to the Sport & Fitness Centre for a gym session, it’s a great way to stay active and take a break from studying. Evenings are usually more relaxed; I might cook with flatmates, hang out on campus, or prepare for the next day.

Overall, student life here is a balance of learning, staying active, and socialising, which makes the experience both enjoyable and productive.

Why Birmingham Dubai?

I chose the University of Birmingham Dubai because it offers the same high academic standards and reputation as the main campus in the UK, but in a more diverse and close-knit environment. What really stood out to me was the balance between quality education and the opportunity to be part of a growing, innovative campus.

Another big factor was the campus itself; it’s modern, well-equipped, and has a strong sense of community. I felt like it would be a place where I could grow both academically and personally, and that’s exactly what I’ve experienced so far.

Dubai also felt like the perfect balance between a safe, modern city and a place full of energy and innovation. It’s a global hub with strong connections to many industries, which makes it a great place to build future career opportunities while studying. Living and studying here has helped me become more independent, adaptable, and confident.

Why I chose to study Psychology at Birmingham Dubai

I chose to study Psychology because I’ve always been fascinated by how people think, feel, and behave. I wanted to understand the reasons behind human behaviour and how psychological principles can be applied to improve mental health and everyday life.

The Psychology course structure really appealed to me; it’s research-driven but also very focused on real-world application. It’s not just about theories, but also about understanding real people and helping them. I’ve always been interested in areas like mental health, motivation, and personality, so Psychology felt like the perfect fit. I also liked how approachable the lecturers were and the support available for students, both academically and personally.

My Birmingham Dubai experience

My student experience at the University has been really positive and well-balanced. The campus has a close-knit community feel, so it’s easy to connect with both classmates and lecturers. The teaching style is very engaging; it’s a mix of lectures, seminars, and practical activities that make learning Psychology really interesting.

I’ve also enjoyed getting involved in events and societies on campus, which has helped me make friends and feel part of the wider university community. The staff are supportive and always willing to help, whether it’s with academic advice or general wellbeing.

Outside of classes in Edgbaston, I love using the gym at the Sport & Fitness Centre and spending time with friends around campus. Overall, it’s been a great experience that’s helped me grow academically, socially, and personally.

Birmingham Dubai’s impact

Birmingham has helped me a lot throughout my studies by providing both academic and personal support. The lecturers are very approachable and genuinely care about students’ progress. They take the time to explain concepts and give feedback that really helps me improve.

The University also offers great resources, like the library databases, study workshops, and career support sessions, that helped me explore future paths related to Psychology. Outside of academics, the wellbeing and student support teams have been great. They’re always available if you need someone to talk to or if you’re feeling stressed.

Overall, the support I’ve received has made a big difference, and it’s made me feel valued and confident throughout my studies.

Advice for students

My advice to prospective students would be to really make the most of every opportunity that Birmingham offers. Get involved in societies, events, and activities on campus. It’s one of the best ways to meet new people and feel part of the community. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, whether that’s joining a new club, volunteering, or speaking up in class.

At the same time, stay organised with your studies and make use of the support available. Your lecturers, tutors, and the academic skills team are all there to help you succeed. And most importantly, find a good balance between work and personal life; take time to explore, relax, and enjoy the experience.

University life goes by quickly, so be open, stay curious, and make the most of everything Birmingham has to offer.