Laras Suci

What made you choose the University of Birmingham?

Choosing a university for my Masters degree is a whole different challenge for me. After graduating from my undergraduate studies at Universitas Gadjah Mada in 2025, Indonesia, I was unsure whether to start my career or pursue my Masters. After I did some research, the University of Birmingham really had answers to my confusion. The University of Birmingham provides both what I need most: career support and the prestige of a Russell Group university to pursue my Masters. I can get both worlds here. I am so amazed by how complete the career support provided by the University of Birmingham is. And do not forget about the modules I get to learn for my Masters year here. The University of Birmingham is such a 'best package deal' for me.

Why did you choose to study your course?

Starting from high school, I've always wanted to pursue a business degree. I have graduated with a major in Business Management in Indonesia, and I want to expand my career opportunities and deepen my knowledge and insights in business management. I always wanted to dig deeper into leadership through practices, blended learning, and diverse perspectives. I have my compulsory modules to deepen my understanding of the broader management of businesses and organizations.  And then I get to pick one module that interests me the most, which is International Business. In simpler words, the course I chose, MSc Management, has it all. It covers all my questions in several modules.

What is your student experience like?

After just one month here as a postgraduate student at the University of Birmingham, I already feel so alive and so welcomed. The atmosphere, the lecturers, and my fellow students are all so welcoming and dynamic. It feels like there are endless opportunities at the University of Birmingham: diverse group work in class, engaging lectures, and diverse perspectives in seminar discussions. And that’s only the lecture-related part; here we can swim in tons of communities we are interested in. From the economics societies to cheese societies, they have it all here! For students who want to work on campus part-time, the University offers hundreds of jobs with a healthy work-campus-life balance! There’s just something about these tons of opportunities and perspectives, something that makes me feel like I can achieve everything I have ever wanted!

Did you attend any events, online or on campus?

I attended the Welcome Week fair, and it was a blast! As an international student who just arrived two days before the Welcome Week, it was totally fun and helpful. The societies fair and sports fair were so informative and fun. I got to play a lot of games and participated in activities to learn more about my campus for next year and to meet new people from so many different countries.

What's your favourite thing about Birmingham so far?

This city has it all, from the serene campus area for studying, and also the busy, lively city that is just 30 minutes from campus, for having fun and getting the big city spirit. I prefer to study in a serene place with plenty of greenery, parks, and ponds, and away from traffic. And the University area in Edgbaston is basically just my preference. But, on the other hand, I also found it so spirit-awakening to be in the city full of buildings, lights, and crowds, just to feel the spirit. Birmingham has it all perfectly portioned.

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

For prospective students, I really want you to explore, indulge, and immerse yourself in every opportunity you have here at the University of Birmingham. And don’t forget to create a study plan and meal plan! That would help you a lot! Seminars and lectures can be so tiring; please always have your notes and a pen with you to write down everything you need to prepare beforehand. The key is to be prepared before the day starts. And do maximize the use of University facilities! Here on campus, we have a big library (with blankets!) and a Teaching and Learning Building with a great interior and funny stairs (that would entertain you). Lastly, please do explore the societies and sports they have on campus! There are tons of them! Choose what you want to join! get new friends and experiences!