Taksh Gemawath

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

I knew Birmingham was right for me after attending the offer-holder visit day. As an international student, I was nervous about fitting in, but the diversity on campus and the welcoming atmosphere immediately stood out. Speaking to current students made everything feel real and achievable. The balance between strong academics, career opportunities, and a vibrant campus environment made it feel like somewhere I could genuinely see myself growing.

Why did you choose to study your course?

I chose my course because I’ve always been interested in understanding how businesses operate and make strategic decisions. I enjoy problem-solving and working with numbers, but I also like the people side of business leadership, teamwork and communication. The course at Birmingham stood out because of its practical focus, industry links and the opportunity to apply theory to real-world situations.

What is student life like for you?

Student life has been a balance between academics and getting involved on campus. I’m part of societies, including the Business and Hindu societies, where I’ve met people from different backgrounds, which has made settling in much easier. Being involved has helped me build confidence and step outside my comfort zone.

As an international student, I’ve also really valued the cultural communities on campus. They’ve made Birmingham feel like a home away from home. At the same time, I’ve enjoyed exploring the city, trying new food spots, and studying in different spaces on campus. There’s always something happening, whether it’s society events, career workshops, or just spending time with friends after lectures.

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

My favourite memory so far has been meeting new people and turning those friendships into something really meaningful. From celebrating festivals together to cooking meals and spending late nights talking in accommodation, those moments made university feel like home. Living with friends from different backgrounds and sharing our cultures has been such a special experience. It’s not just the big events but the everyday memories that have meant the most to me.

What advice would you give to current or prospective students?

Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Join societies, attend events, and ask questions, even the ones you think are small. University goes by quickly, so say yes to opportunities and step outside your comfort zone. That’s where the best experiences happen.