Asma Alghamdi

What made you choose the University of Birmingham?

I chose the University of Birmingham for several reasons. First, its strong international ranking and reputation in my field really stood out. I also liked the feel of the city, it’s big and vibrant, but still has a relaxed vibe, and being close to London means I can visit on weekends without dealing with the intensity of living there full time.

One of the main reasons, though, was my supervisor. I have my own project, so I spent a lot of time searching for someone whose expertise and approach I truly admired. Once my current supervisors accepted me, I withdrew my other applications because I knew this was the right fit for my PhD.

On top of that, Birmingham is very multicultural, which makes it feel welcoming and familiar in many ways. Overall, I’m genuinely happy and confident with my decision to study at UoB.

Why did you choose to study your course?

I chose to study Applied Health Research because I want my work to have a direct impact on people’s lives and on health systems, not just stay on paper. I’ve always been interested in how lifestyle, especially physical activity, shapes health and how we can design better services, policies and technologies to support healthier choices.

My PhD focuses on technology-based interventions to promote physical activity in GCC countries, which allows me to combine my interests in public health, digital health and policy. This course gives me the methods, supervision and environment I need to answer real world questions and hopefully contribute to improving population health in the region.

What is your student experience like?

My student experience at the University of Birmingham has been really enriching so far. As a PhD student in Applied Health Research, I feel well supported academically – my supervisors are approachable, and there’s a strong research culture with seminars, training sessions and chances to present and get feedback.

Outside of my project, I enjoy the social side of campus life. There’s a real mix of cultures and backgrounds, so it’s easy to meet people and feel part of a community, especially as an international student. Birmingham itself is a big city with a friendly, town-like vibe, so I can have quiet study time on campus during the week and still enjoy cafes, parks and trips to London at weekends. Overall, I feel like I have a good balance between focused research and enjoying my life as a student here.

Did you attend any events, online or on campus?

Yes, I’ve attended several online and on-campus events so far. These include seminars on how to write a thesis, how to develop academic writing skills, and how to make the most of your PhD journey. I’ve found them really helpful, and I’ve been able to benefit from most of them in a practical way in my own research.

What's your favourite thing about Birmingham so far?

My favourite thing about Birmingham so far is the canal walks. I really enjoy running along the canals – it’s peaceful, beautiful, and a great way to clear my mind after studying.

What support did you receive for your postgraduate studies?

As a self-funded student, my main financial support comes from my employer, and I’ve been very lucky because they are professional, organised and really supportive of my studies.

What advice would you give to current or prospective students to help them make the most of their time at Birmingham?

Be patient with yourself and enjoy every moment – the joy really comes from the journey, not just the destination. Get involved, explore the campus and the city, talk to people from different backgrounds, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Your time at Birmingham goes quickly, so try to balance working hard with enjoying the experience.