Oluwatamilore Sobowale

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

I think the Computer Science programme at Birmingham has a reputation for blending rigorous theory with practical industry standard applications and with me being an international student, the University’s global ranking and the diverse community were huge draws. I also have a couple childhood friends that have also attended and graduated from this university and had many good things to say so the opportunity to study in a major tech hub while being part of a research-intensive institution felt like the perfect environment to transition from a student to a professional when I graduate.

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

Aside from the curriculum being incredibly forward-thinking, there are also several opportunities made for progression outside the confines of academics - like having workshops hosted by major firms, talks led by students working and all the career days provides invaluable insight into to navigate outside world problems and progress in our career paths.

What’s the best thing about studying at Birmingham?

The campus. We all know school can be a lot sometimes but there is something truly special about the entire school’s architecture. It manages to feel like a self-contained community with its own beautiful green spaces, countless of study and social areas and also the fact that its only a couple minutes train away from the centre of a bustling city.

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

Beyond the academics, the highlight has been the perfect balance of professional growth and a vibrant social life. On one hand, I’ve had the chance to step into the corporate world through insight days at companies like Morgan Stanley and take on leadership roles as a Digital International Ambassador.

On the other hand, the social events organised by student societies and the University have been just as impactful. Whether it’s meeting people from all over the world at international student mixers, or enjoying the legendary nights out in the city, these moments have provided the perfect break from academic life. Building a network of friends from different backgrounds while developing my career has made me feel much more confident and at home here.

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

I would break it down into 3 points. First, start coding early. Don’t wait for your assignments to explore languages like Java and Python. Personal projects are where you really learn to troubleshoot. Secondly, be proactive. Birmingham offers so much more than just a degree. Attend the career fairs, join the workshops and don't be afraid to apply for Spring Weeks or insight days early on. Lastly, balance is everything. It’s a demanding course, so make sure to enjoy the campus and the city.

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

You should be prepared for the collaborative nature of the field. Many of the most rewarding parts of the course involve working in teams and solving complex problems together. Also, don't limit yourself to just tech roles, a comp Sci degree from Birmingham is highly valued in finance, law and consulting, so keep your options open and explore how your technical skills can apply to different industries.