Xuanzhe Niu

PhD Student, City University of Hong Kong

Tell us about your current job. Describe what you do on a typical day.

I am currently a PhD student in Mathematical Finance at City University of Hong Kong, with my research focusing on risk management. My typical day mainly involves reading academic papers, developing research ideas, and working on theoretical or methodological problems related to financial risk. In addition to my research, I also work as a teaching assistant, which includes marking assignments and exam papers, as well as leading tutorial sessions to explain problem-solving techniques and key concepts to students. This combination of research and teaching has helped me develop both independent research skills and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

What were the best things about your course?

One of the best aspects of my course was the strong academic support from the teaching staff. Although the course content was not impossible, many topics were conceptually challenging and required careful thought and revision to fully understand. I spent a significant amount of time reviewing materials after lectures, and I almost always attended office hours to ask questions. I particularly appreciated the office hour system, as it allowed me to clarify difficult points directly with lecturers and ensure that I truly understood the material. This support played a crucial role in helping me build a solid understanding of mathematical finance.

What skills from your degree do you think you use most in your current job?

The skills I use most are mathematical modelling, rigorous logical reasoning, and problem decomposition. I also frequently rely on statistical analysis, programming skills, and the ability to read and critically evaluate academic papers. These skills were developed extensively during my master’s degree and now form the foundation of my doctoral research.

What are your top tips for securing a job in the United Kingdom or your home country?

I would recommend starting career planning early and being clear about your long-term goals. For students in quantitative fields, building a strong technical foundation is essential, but it is equally important to understand how your skills can be applied in practice. Seeking advice from academics, alumni, and career advisers can be very helpful, especially when making decisions about further study or employment.

How has your career developed since graduating from the University of Birmingham? Did you need to take additional training on top of your degree?

After graduating from Birmingham, I chose to continue my academic path by pursuing a PhD in Mathematical Finance. While my Master’s degree provided strong preparation, doctoral research requires additional training in advanced theory, academic writing, and independent research skills. Thanks to the solid foundation built during my degree, I was able to adapt to this transition effectively.

What advice would you give to current students studying on your degree programme?

I would strongly encourage students to make full use of office hours and actively engage with lecturers. Asking questions and clarifying doubts early can make a significant difference in understanding challenging topics. Consistent revision and independent thinking are also key to getting the most out of the programme.

What would you recommend students should do at university, over and above their academic study, to make them more employable in the graduate market?

In addition to academic study, students should focus on developing communication skills and learning how to explain complex ideas clearly. Gaining experience with programming tools and real-world problem-solving through projects or internships can also greatly improve employability.

Did you take advantage of support services offered by the University, for example Careers Network and Wellbeing, and if so, what impact did they have on you?

I made limited but useful use of the Careers Network, mainly for CV feedback and career guidance. The advice I received helped me improve my CV and think more clearly about my future career direction, including decisions related to further study and PhD applications.

What are your fondest memories of the University and what would you say to anyone currently considering studying at Birmingham?

My fondest memories are closely related to my interactions with lecturers and the learning process itself. I remember spending a lot of time revisiting difficult material and attending office hours to ask questions. Although challenging, this process was extremely rewarding and helped me build confidence in my abilities. I would encourage prospective students to choose Birmingham if they value strong academic support and a rigorous learning environment.

What were your favourite things about Birmingham the city? How did it compare to your expectations?

I enjoyed Birmingham’s diverse and welcoming atmosphere. It was more vibrant and convenient than I initially expected, while also being a very comfortable city for students to live and study in. Unlike London, Birmingham isn’t that rushed. You can fully enjoy this period of time leisurely when living in Birmingham.

What extracurricular activities did you get involved in as a student?

During my studies, I mainly focused on academic activities, including seminars and independent study, but I also enjoyed participating in informal student events and social activities that helped me build friendships and adapt to life in the UK.

Please tell us about your experience studying and living away from home.

Studying and living away from home was both challenging and rewarding. It helped me become more independent and adaptable, and it also broadened my perspective. This experience prepared me well for further international study and research.

Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?

I originally applied to the University of Birmingham because of its strong academic reputation, which I had already heard about before applying. In addition, I had friends living in Birmingham at the time, which made the transition to studying abroad feel more manageable and reassuring. Together, these factors made Birmingham an attractive and practical choice for my studies.