Chloe Jie En Cheah

Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?

I originally applied to study AI at Birmingham because of my background in robotics which sparked my interest in how intelligent systems work in real-world applications. Through competitions and projects, I enjoyed building and understanding systems and I wanted to take that further by learning how AI can enhance decision-making and automation. Birmingham stood out to me because of its strong focus on both theoretical foundations and practical applications. It felt like the right place to deepen my understanding while still being able to apply what I learn to real-world problems.

What do you think are the best points of your course?

One of the best points of the course is the wide range of topics it covers. Compared to other universities, I feel like Birmingham gives you broader exposure, from theoretical areas like algorithms and computation to more applied topics like AI systems and computer vision. This variety really helps you discover what you enjoy most while still building a strong overall foundation. It also means you’re not limited to just one area, which is really valuable when thinking about future careers.

What’s the best thing about studying at Birmingham?

For me, one of the best things about studying at Birmingham is how supportive the lecturers and staff are. There’s always help available when you need it, both academically and personally. For example, when I was feeling quite overwhelmed about internship decisions, my personal tutor was really helpful in guiding me through my options and helping me think things through. That kind of support makes a big difference and makes you feel like you’re not going through things alone.

What’s the highlight of your time at the University?

One of the highlights of my time at university has been the people I’ve met. Being originally from Malaysia and spending the past few years in the UK, I’ve had the chance to build friendships with people from all different backgrounds. It’s been really meaningful to learn about different cultures, perspectives and experiences and even travel to visit friends in their home countries. That exposure has been just as valuable as the academic side of university for me.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?

My biggest advice would be to stay consistent and not fall behind, especially with the foundational topics. A lot of the later content builds on what you learn early on, so having a strong base really helps. I’d also recommend getting involved in projects or trying things outside of your coursework, whether that’s personal projects or group work. It helps you understand concepts more deeply and also builds your confidence. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. The course can be challenging at times, but there’s a lot of support available if you use it.

Is there anything extra students thinking about studying on the course should know?

One thing to keep in mind is that the course can be quite challenging, especially if you’re new to some of the more theoretical aspects. However, that challenge is also what makes it rewarding. It’s also a course where curiosity really helps. If you’re genuinely interested in how things work and enjoy problem-solving, you’ll get a lot out of it. Lastly, it’s not just about coding, it’s about thinking logically, breaking down problems and understanding systems, which are really valuable skills beyond university as well.