Alexa Zorbas, a first year Pharmacy student from Canada speaks about her experiences on the MPharm Course at the University of Birmingham.
Why did you apply to do your chosen course in the UK and specifically at the University of Birmingham?
I decided to take my course in the UK because university credits are not a required prerequisite to apply to pharmacy school like it is back home in Canada. I worked with a pharmacist who also came to the UK about 10 years ago to complete their pharmacy degree and they spoke highly of their experience.
I chose Birmingham because I worked with an agency to apply to schools in the UK and based off my academic achievements Birmingham was in the top 10 recommended schools. Birmingham was the best decision for me based off academic standings, finance and overall feel from YouTube videos students posted about their experience and information I could find regarding the course itself.
What have you struggled the most with during your studies? How did you overcome them?
I think getting settled and adjusted to everything. I really had to start from scratch and get a lot of the basics set up while adjusting and getting a good routine for school. I had a lot of help from my parents which helped me overcome a lot of the burden and divide tasks up. The Student Hub is also a good resource for certain queries as well.
I think the best way to overcome any challenges is to know when you need to get some help and use the resources around you.
Do you feel you have been supported as an international student at the University of Birmingham? If so, how?
I think during the application time it was a bit difficult I wasn’t always sure where to go if I needed some help, but the agency helped a lot. Once at the university it’s been easier to navigate and find support, like the student hub.
In specific to my program, the international students were also reached out to from the MPharm Admission Tutor Dr. Vivek at the beginning of the term in regard to support which I really appreciated and helped me to feel more welcome.
What advice would you give to prospective international students thinking about studying on the course?
Do your research, find a place you’ll be comfortable with and give yourself ample time before your studies start to get settled, I was a little short on time myself and definitely would have appreciated a couple extra days. If you are able to, consider checking the university out in person or attend a virtual tour if that’s an option.