Hien Vi Vu

Typical day in my life

I usually start with lectures or seminars in Economics, where I focus on understanding both the theoretical and practical aspects of the topics. I often spend my late mornings or early afternoons working on problem sets or discussing concepts with classmates to strengthen my understanding.

Afternoons are usually a mix of studying independently in the Teaching & Learning building and attending additional tutorials or workshops that help reinforce key ideas, especially in areas like econometrics or quantitative modelling.

In the evening, I like to take part in society activities or go to the gym to relax and recharge after a full day of academic work. I find that maintaining this balance between study and personal time helps me stay focused and perform better overall.

How did you know the University of Birmingham was right for you? 

When I was applying to universities, University of Birmingham stood out to me for several reasons. First, the strong reputation of the Mathematical Economics and Statistics programme really appealed to me. I was drawn to how it combines analytical thinking, problem-solving, and real-world economic applications. The course structure offered the perfect balance between theoretical depth and practical skills, which I knew would prepare me well for future career opportunities.

I also attended an Open Day, and that experience really confirmed my choice. I was impressed by the beautiful and welcoming campus, as well as the friendly and supportive atmosphere from both staff and students. The facilities, especially the modern study spaces and resources for mathematics and economics students, made me feel confident that University of Birmingham would be a place where I could thrive academically and personally.

Lastly, the vibrant student community and wide range of societies were very appealing to me. I wanted to be part of a university that encourages both academic excellence and personal development, and University of Birmingham felt like the perfect fit for that balance.

My favourite place in Birmingham

My favourite place in Birmingham is the Jewellery Quarter (JQ). It has such a unique and creative atmosphere, with beautiful architecture and lots of interesting independent shops and cafés. One of my favourite spots is a Vietnamese café called Tranquil 1992 Coffee House. It reminds me of home and has a really cosy, welcoming vibe. I love going there to relax, study, or catch up with friends over a good cup of coffee. It’s the perfect place to take a break from campus life and enjoy a bit of calm in the city.