Chiao Ting Lai

How have you found your time at Birmingham?

During my time at the University of Birmingham, I’ve really enjoyed the balance between academic learning and personal growth. My degree in BSc Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science has allowed me to learn a lot and build a strong foundation that will support my future career. I’ve also had a great time taking part in various activities and really enjoy the vibrant and welcoming vibe, which has made my experience both enjoyable and memorable.

What do you like the most about the university?

There are many things I like about the University of Birmingham, but the best part is definitely the combination of academic excellence and vibrant student life.

The Guild of Students plays a huge role in this. They host everything from cultural festivals to networking socials, making it easy to meet people from all over the world, try new things, and make student life feel dynamic and inclusive.

And on top of that, I'm really impressed by the practical support the university offers for our future careers. There were frequent career fairs and workshops, along with dedicated career services that covered everything from CV writing to interview practice, and even one-on-one mentoring sessions. Knowing I’ll have those resources to help me prepare for life after graduation gives me a lot of confidence.

For me, it is that combination of a lively, connected student experience and a university that genuinely cares about where we end up that stands out the most.

How has the degree helped you?

My degree has really helped me build a strong foundation across the core areas of Computer Science, from programming and algorithms to databases and software engineering. At the same time, the programme gave me the flexibility to explore my own interests. I was able to delve into specialised areas like machine learning through advanced modules, which allowed me to tailor my degree to my career aspirations.

In addition, I gained valuable hands-on experience by developing a full-stack web application in a team project. We were given the freedom to choose our own topic and design the entire system, closely reflecting a real-world development cycle. This was an incredibly rewarding experience that not only strengthened my technical skills but also taught me agile methodologies and project management.

Furthermore, the university environment was key in shaping my vision. Attending tech talks and networking events allowed me to connect with a diverse range of professionals and peers. Hearing about their different career paths and experiences gave me a much clearer vision for my own career and opened my eyes to the many possibilities in the tech industry. It was truly inspiring.

What would you recommend to other students considering University of Birmingham?

I would recommend the University of Birmingham for its strong academic reputation and the wide range of opportunities it offers. The courses are thoughtfully designed, both challenging and engaging, while the university also offers outstanding career support through fairs, workshops, and networking events. Beyond academics, Birmingham is the UK’s second-largest city, yet it remains relatively affordable and vibrant, with everything from food markets to live music and cultural activities. It’s a place where you can strike the perfect balance between focused study and an enjoyable social life.