Meet Laiba

What is your favourite thing about your course?

My favourite thing about my course is that I get to do placements in various sectors of pharmacy such as hospitals, GPs and chemists which gives me an opportunity to experience the content we learnt during lectures and seminars. This allows me to learn from my mistakes. I think this method is a great way to learn and move forward.

A friend who's never visited Birmingham before comes to stay with you - what would you do with them to get a taste of the city?

Birmingham is the second largest city in the UK. It’s a great city to be in as it celebrates different cultures and gives importance to every religion. 

I would take my friend to the Bullring shopping centre where they can experience the hustle and bustle of city life. After this, we would visit the canals and Birmingham Library, which is the largest public library in the UK. The top-floor balcony has a great view of the city skyline.

Finally, we would go to Star City, which will give us the opportunity to experience different activities in one place such as games bowling, mini golf, cinema and dining out.

When did you know the University of Birmingham was the place for you?

I knew the University of Birmingham was right for me when I started doing my research and developed my knowledge of where I could be doing placements. I always wanted to do a placement in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, which is one of the largest single-site hospitals in the United Kingdom.

What are some highlights of your time at Birmingham?

A highlight of my time at Birmingham was becoming a committee member of PharmSoc and attending different conferences which allowed me to build connections with future employers. I also enjoyed attending different events as part of the Islamic Society (ISOC) such as the community Iftar and various social events.

Where is your favourite place on campus?

My favourite place on campus is the Green Heart Marquee which is very close to the library. This allows me to study in fresh air and also have close access to the books, café and study room in the library.  

Do you have any top tips for prospective Birmingham students?

My top tips for prospective students at UOB are the following: 

• Attend an open day 
• Try to get involved as much as you can with the university. 
• Study in groups (discuss + quiz each other before exams) 
• Attend conferences, talks, participate in projects, mentoring, Departmental Parent Schemes
• Develop a good network with your year. 
• Campus jog/run with friends. 
• Apply to as many summer placements as possible! (apply knowledge & enhance network + CV). 
• Have Fun

What do you want to do after graduating?

After graduating I want to work as an industrial or hospital pharmacist. I have built an interest in this sector by attending placements and conferences available in a specific sector (such as industrial pharmacy PHSS conference, BPSA conference and RPA conference). Hopefully these conferences will increase the chance for me to work in a competitive field.