Xiang Yu Li

What made you choose the University of Birmingham?

I chose the University of Birmingham because it combines academic excellence with strong real-world relevance. As a Russell Group university, it is distinguished by its robust research culture and focus on applying knowledge beyond the classroom. I was particularly impressed by its emphasis on independent thinking and long-term personal development.

Birmingham’s location also played an important role in my decision. As the UK’s second-largest city, it offers a diverse, dynamic, and internationally connected environment, with abundant opportunities for cultural exchange and professional growth.

Did you attend any events, online or on campus?

Yes, I attended on-campus activities and became actively involved in student societies at the University of Birmingham. The university offers a wide range of societies, which was initially overwhelming, but I was fortunate to join the Robotics Society. Through this society, I met many like-minded students and had the opportunity to work with a team to build a robot from scratch. I was involved in writing code to control the robot, which allowed me to apply programming concepts in a hands-on way. The entire process was both challenging and rewarding, and it quickly became an activity I looked forward to every week.

Why did you choose to study your course?

I chose to study AI and Sustainable Development because it sits at the intersection of two forces that will shape the future: artificial intelligence and sustainability. The course at the University of Birmingham stands out for its strong balance between theoretical foundations and hands-on programming, allowing students to develop practical coding and algorithmic skills alongside conceptual understanding. As someone relatively new to programming, I value how the course is designed to be accessible while still rigorous. In the long term, this programme aligns closely with my goal of using AI-driven solutions to address real-world sustainability challenges.

What made University of Birmingham the right place for your course?

The University of Birmingham stood out to me because its course was explicitly designed for individuals with a strong passion for entrepreneurship. While exploring different programmes, I was immediately drawn to the course description, which stated that it was created for those who aspire to become entrepreneurs. This clear alignment with my career ambition strongly resonated with me. Rather than focusing solely on theory, the course emphasises innovation, practical problem-solving, and real-world business application, which closely match my long-term goal of building and leading my own venture. The University’s strong academic reputation and supportive entrepreneurial environment further confirmed that Birmingham was the right place for my development.

What was your experience at Birmingham like?

My experience at the University of Birmingham was both academically enriching and personally fulfilling. Lectures were engaging and encouraged critical thinking, with a strong balance between theory and practical discussion. Beyond academics, campus life was vibrant and inclusive. I made some friends through group projects and student societies, which helped me adapt quickly to university life. I also developed my interests outside class, enjoying time at the library and green spaces on campus, which became my favourite places to reflect and recharge. The supportive student culture and strong sense of community made my time at Birmingham especially memorable and rewarding.

How did the University's support services help you throughout your studies?

The University of Birmingham provided strong academic and personal support throughout my studies. Academically, I benefited from well-structured modules, approachable lecturers, and constructive feedback that helped me refine my analytical and problem-solving skills. Beyond the classroom, career services offered valuable guidance on employability, from CV reviews to career planning workshops, which clarified my professional direction. I also took part in extracurricular activities that enhanced my teamwork and communication skills. The University’s comprehensive student support services created a supportive environment that allowed me to focus on both academic excellence and personal development, making my overall study experience more confident and rewarding.

What has your journey looked like since graduating from Birmingham? How did Birmingham shape this?

Since graduating from the University of Birmingham, my journey has been shaped by the academic training and mindset I developed there. I have continued to build practical experience through professional roles and independent projects, applying the analytical thinking, initiative, and problem-solving skills gained during my studies. A key turning point was recognising how the entrepreneurial perspective encouraged at Birmingham influenced my approach to challenges - viewing uncertainty as opportunity rather than risk. The University’s emphasis on independent learning and real-world application has given me the confidence to explore new directions, take responsibility for my growth, and steadily move closer to my long-term goal of becoming an entrepreneur.

What was your biggest achievement during your course?

During my time at the University of Birmingham, I am most proud of achieving the highest mark in my programme for my postgraduate dissertation. This achievement demonstrated my ability to conduct rigorous independent research, apply advanced analytical skills, and maintain academic excellence at graduate level.

What advice would you give to current or prospective students?

If I could offer one piece of advice as a graduate of the University of Birmingham, it would be to take initiative early. Don’t be shy about communicating with your professors - most are very willing to help if you reach out. At the same time, be brave and join any societies that truly interest you, even if you feel unsure at first. These experiences will help you grow beyond the classroom, build lasting friendships, and make your university years far more meaningful and enjoyable.