Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?
I applied because I realised chemistry was something I was actually good at and enjoyed, not just a subject I was forcing myself through. I wanted a course that would push me and also open up a lot of career options. Birmingham stood out because it seemed like a supportive place to study, which made it feel like the right fit.
What do you think are the best points of your course?
Honestly, there are so many different parts to it. You’re not just stuck doing one thing; you’ve got labs, lectures, group projects, and independent work, so it never feels too repetitive. At the moment, I love the labs the most. The labs at Birmingham are so well designed and clearly well funded, which makes such a difference because you actually enjoy being there and feel like you’re doing real science.
What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?
You get to meet new people all the time, and everyone comes from such different backgrounds and countries. It makes the experience way more interesting and helps you see things from different perspectives, not just academically but socially as well.
What’s the highlight of your time at the University?
Coming to university by myself was definitely scary at first, and I struggled more than I expected in the beginning. But the friends I’ve made have honestly been the biggest highlight. Having people around you who are going through the same things just makes everything feel more manageable and fun.
What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?
Just do it! Yes, it’s challenging and there will be moments where you’re confused or stressed, but that’s normal. You don’t need to know everything before you start; you will learn as you go. If you enjoy chemistry even a little bit, you’ll grow into it more than you expect.
Is there anything extra students thinking about studying on the course should know?
Don’t be scared to ask questions or use the support that’s there, because everyone else is trying to figure things out, too. Also, it’s okay if you don’t have everything planned; university is as much about discovering yourself as it is about the course.