Onyinyechukwu Fidelis-Iwelu

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

Birmingham is a top 100 global university, so academically it was already ticking boxes. But the offer-holder visit day is when it really clicked. I got chatting to students about the Afro-Caribbean Society and extracurriculars I hadn't even considered. The city won me over too - so vibrant and multicultural, and there’s a direct 7-minute train from campus into the city centre. They also had a great netball team, which was a must for me.

Why did you choose to study your course?

Business was my favourite subject at sixth form. I had a real passion for it and could see myself working for big corporates after uni. What sold me was flexibility: you can add or remove a placement year until the end of your second year, which took the pressure off. That flexibility paid off massively! I did my placement at Snapchat with brilliant support from the Business School careers service.

What is student life like for you?

Where do I start! In my first year, I joined the university netball team and played on the 2nd team. That was probably one of the best decisions I made because I built such a strong group of friends through it with people who share the same passion and energy as me. Netball gave me an instant community which made settling in so much easier. Outside of that, I'm part of the Afro-Caribbean Society, which has been brilliant for meeting people from all different courses and similar backgrounds. I also work as a student ambassador which I love because I get to help prospective students the same way current students helped me when I was deciding. Most importantly, there's always something going on! Whether it's sports nights out, exploring what Birmingham has to offer, or just spending time on campus with friends. There's never a dull moment.

What's your favourite memory of university life so far?

It has to be my first ever sports night with my netball team. All the sports teams come together at Circo and the Student Guild for this massive party, and it's all on campus. The atmosphere was unreal. I remember looking around, thinking, "Yeah, I'm going to love it here." It was one of those nights where everything just felt right.

What advice would you give to current or prospective students?

Keep an eye on your emails - that's where you find out about everything! The newsletters will have little gems and opportunities for you to earn while you learn. Attend as many freshers' events as you can because that's where you meet so many people. I went to the Business School introduction event during Welcome Week and met loads of students and staff straight away.