Student Profile - Yangyi Shi

Home Country: China
Course: BEng Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Department: Engineering

Yangyi"If you want to make the most of time living and studying abroad, try to step out of your comfort zone and join the life here as much as possible, such as taking an active part in societies, making more friends and joining in the events on the campus or in the city."  

Why did you apply to the University of Birmingham?

I am taking part in a 2+2 programme between University of Birmingham and Wuhan University of Technology (WHUT). I felt it was a good chance for me to experience different cultures and compared to other universities I could choose to exchange at, I found the University of Birmingham has more organised and interesting course content and enjoys a better prestige around the world. 

What are the best points of your course?

In second year there is a special Integrated Mechatronic Project lasting the whole academic year. We made a robotic car which was able to follow a course on the ground in a group of six students. The whole robotic car, from the structure of the car, internal circuit to the code in the microchip which controls the movements of the car are all from ourselves using the knowledge gained from the study in first and second year.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

The sufficient study arrangements especially the schedule for the laboratory and practical project in my course are what I enjoy most. The advanced equipment and facilities the university has invested for the school of engineering as well as the reasonable timetable for modules help us develop our practical skills, which is important for Engineering students.

What advice would you give to other international students?

The more you practice the more fluent English you speak. People are always friendly and patient enough to listen and communicate with you. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when needed. There is various support which you could easily find from the university website or relative school department.

What do you like most about the city?

There are lots of restaurants near the campus and at the city centre providing food from different countries. I enjoy hanging out with my friends during weekends and randomly pick a restaurant to have lunch or dinner.