My international experience at Birmingham Business School

One of the most exciting opportunities I have had during my time at Birmingham Business School was travelling to Wuhan, China to attend and present at the BBS-HUST International Student Conference 2026. Experiences like this really show how Birmingham Business School goes beyond traditional teaching to provide students with global opportunities that develop both academic knowledge and employability skills.

The conference, hosted by Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), focused on the theme “Responsible AI & Digital Transformation: Rethinking Business for a Sustainable Future.” The programme brought together undergraduate students and academic staff from both Birmingham Business School and HUST for an intensive week of academic collaboration, workshops, presentations, and cultural exchange. It was an amazing opportunity to learn from students and academics from another part of the world while gaining a broader understanding of global business challenges.

As part of the programme, I worked on a research project focused on Sustainable Supply Chain Management, using Unilever as a case study. Working alongside another student, our project explored how emerging technologies and digital innovations are being used to improve sustainability and transparency within global supply chains. This is an increasingly important topic for businesses as organisations continue to balance technological innovation with environmental and ethical responsibilities.

Working on this project allowed me to apply many of the skills I have developed throughout my degree while also challenging me to think from a more international perspective. I collaborated with students from both Birmingham and China, sharing ideas and approaches to business problems from different cultural and educational backgrounds. It was interesting to see how students from different countries approached discussions around sustainability, AI, and the future of business.

One of the highlights of the experience was presenting our research project at the conference to academics and students from both universities. Presenting internationally was initially quite daunting, but it helped me develop my confidence and communication skills significantly. It pushed me outside of my comfort zone and taught me how to communicate ideas clearly and professionally to an international audience.

Beyond the academic side of the programme, the experience also provided me with valuable global exposure and cultural experiences. Throughout the week, we took part in cultural activities, explored Wuhan, and spent time getting to know the students from HUST. Experiencing a university within a completely different part of the world and having conversations with students from different backgrounds was one of the most rewarding parts of the trip, as it gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of cultural understanding in international business.

I think experiences like this are incredibly valuable because they develop so many transferable skills that employers look for. Throughout the week, I strengthened my teamwork, adaptability, communication, and presentation skills while also developing a more global outlook on business and leadership. In today’s increasingly international and interconnected business world, having the ability to collaborate with people from different cultures and perspectives is so important.

Overall, attending the conference was an unforgettable experience and one of the highlights of my university journey so far. Birmingham Business School has provided me with opportunities that go far beyond the lecture hall, allowing me to grow academically, professionally, and personally. The experience not only improved my confidence and global awareness but also reinforced my interest in the future of sustainable and international business.