Xiaoyan Wang (Lia)

How have you found your time at Birmingham?

Studying at the University of Birmingham has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I’ve really enjoyed being part of such a diverse and supportive community, where I’ve been able to grow both academically and personally. The university also organises many fun events and activities throughout the year. For example, attending the Grad Ball was my first time experiencing the atmosphere of a traditional British ball, while the Career Fair showed me just how competitive the job market can be and encouraged me to prepare early for my future career. These experiences made my time here even more memorable and gave me a real sense of belonging.

My journey as a Student Ambassador began with my very first interview in the UK, I still remember the nerves I felt on that day and the joy when I received my offer afterwards. This role has given me a unique experience: Beyond developing useful skills, it helped me uncover what I genuinely enjoy, which was something I hadn’t fully realised before. I also love sharing my life on social media, and I was delighted to see that many students were genuinely interested in my posts about studying and living in Birmingham.

What do you like the most about the university?

What I like the most about the University of Birmingham is that it genuinely considers the needs of its students. As a sports enthusiast, I’ve found the facilities on campus meet all of my expectations and support my active lifestyle. Over the past year, while I’ve been preparing to find a job and stay in the UK, the Careers Service has also been a great source of guidance, helping me gain clarity on the steps I need to take for my future.

At the same time, I really appreciate the care and support the university provides for international students like me. I was able to adapt quickly to a new environment and culture, and many of the activities helped me make friends and feel at home. For example, engineering school often organised movie nights, and the Guild of Students hosted FAB parties, both of which gave me great opportunities to socialise and connect with other students.

How has the degree helped you?

This degree has trained me to think like an engineer. I’ve learned how to break down complex problems, look at them from different angles, and design practical solutions. I still remember struggling at first with some challenging group projects, but over time I realised those experiences were sharpening my problem-solving skills. Working closely with classmates from many different countries also pushed me out of my comfort zone and taught me how to communicate across cultures.

Looking back, I can see how much these experiences have boosted both my confidence and my ability to work in an international environment.

What would you recommend to other students considering University of Birmingham?

I would recommend getting involved in as many activities as possible, from student societies to on-campus job opportunities and volunteering. It’s a fantastic way to build friendships, develop skills, and make the most of your time at Birmingham. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone, you’ll discover so many opportunities here and open the door to even more possibilities.