Psychology MSc - Hu Yue's Story

Please tell us about your current role and employer:

I am currently working in an HR Planning position at BOE Technology Group Co., Ltd., a leading company in the semiconductor display manufacturing industry. My core responsibilities include cascading tasks assigned by the group headquarters to subsidiary factories and managing key HR projects. At present, my work is especially focused on initiatives for quality improvement and efficiency enhancement, as well as recruitment-related activities.

What does a typical day in your current role look like?

On a typical day, I receive HR strategy-related tasks from the group headquarters and translate them into actionable plans for different business units through internal decoding and alignment. In the recruitment module, which I am directly responsible for, I begin by gathering and analysing hiring needs and feedback from various business divisions. Based on this understanding and in coordination with the group’s overall recruitment strategy, I develop detailed recruitment timelines and implementation plans that align with market dynamics and organisational goals.

What was your journey to getting a job after graduating from Birmingham? (e.g. application process, visa considerations)

After graduating from the University of Birmingham, I decided to return to China to begin my career. I explored the job market through online and offline channels, submitting applications to a range of positions. To increase my chances, I tailored several versions of my CV to suit different roles and industries. Through this process, I received multiple offers. After careful comparison and consideration, I chose to join my current employer.

How do you feel the learning experience on your course helped to prepare you for your career?

The learning experience during my course provided a solid foundation for my career. For example, I learned Python, which helped me develop strong data literacy and analytical thinking. These skills have been highly valuable in my current role, particularly when working with HR data, interpreting trends, and supporting evidence-based decision-making.

Additionally, a course in critical thinking had a lasting impact on me. It sharpened my ability to evaluate complex information, question assumptions, and approach problems from multiple perspectives. This has proven especially useful in my current work, where I often need to balance strategy with the practical needs of different business units, and design tailored, yet coherent, solutions.

How did the University's support services (e.g. Careers Network) help to prepare you for your career?

The University’s support services played a valuable role in preparing me for my career in two main ways. First, I attended several career seminars organized before graduation, which covered topics such as how to use LinkedIn effectively and featured alumni sharing their job-hunting experiences. These sessions gave me practical insights and broadened my understanding of different career paths.

Second, I booked one-on-one career consultations. These sessions helped me clarify my direction and significantly reduced the anxiety and uncertainty I felt during the job search process. The guidance I received was not only informative but also emotionally supportive.

What are your top tips for students graduating today?

My top tips are both practical and mindset related. On the practical side, start preparing early. Take advantage of career-related events and resources offered by the university to gather information and learn about recruitment timelines for your target companies. Early awareness can make a big difference.

On the mindset side, stay confident. Job hunting can be challenging and uncertain but believing in your own value and potential is key to staying motivated and resilient.

What were the best things about your course?

One of the best things about my course was the opportunity to work and interact with classmates from a wide range of countries and cultural backgrounds. These experiences helped me develop strong communication and collaboration skills, particularly in cross-cultural and cross-functional settings. Learning how to navigate different perspectives and work styles has been incredibly valuable, both personally and professionally.

What was your biggest achievement during your course? (personal, professional or academic)

My biggest achievement was completing my course and graduating during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a time of great uncertainty and disruption, but with the support of the university and my own determination, I managed to stay focused and adapt to the challenges. Looking back, this experience strengthened my resilience and problem-solving abilities