Home Country: Vietnam
Course: MSci Physics with Astrophysics
Department: Physics and Astronomy
"Meeting so many people, from so many backgrounds and with different stories is fascinating, which speaks a lot about the diversity that exists within the university."
Why did you apply to the University of Birmingham?
I applied to the University of Birmingham because of the Physics Departments worldwide reputation and quality in both research strength and teaching. Additionally, a UK university programme follows up closely to the skills I’ve learnt in A-levels, therefore reducing the amount of time I must spend to earn a degree. It also allows me to immediately explore my subjects of interest in more depth.
What are the best points of your course?
To be able to bring theoretical knowledge, in my specialised field, into practice in either data analysis or using an actual observatory to do research. All the modules are laid out with proper structure and rigor to them so that I find myself enjoying most, if not all of them!
What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?
The schools ease of access to the city centre and everywhere else in the UK is one of my favourite things about the University of Birmingham. Also, the campus itself is just beautiful.
What's the highlight of your time here so far?
Meeting and getting along with so many people, from so many backgrounds and with different stories is fascinating, which speaks a lot about the diversity that exists within the university.
What advice would you give to other international students?
Be confident and don’t be afraid to approach different people. I can’t stress enough how important it can be to establish a community you can trust, both within and outside of your department. It has helped me tremendously, when feeling homesick or just when having a bad week.
What do you like most about the city?
The city centre is where I love to be most of the time because I love to wander and admire its ancient architecture mixed with the modern, and also the upbeat pace of the people living there.
How do you feel you have benefitted from the experience of studying in the UK?
I feel I have benefitted as I have access to one of the best physics facilities in the UK and to world-renowned researchers in my field. The experience has also opened my eyes to a myriad of opportunities available to a physics student to explore. And certainly, it has helped develop my transferable skills rapidly and has allowed me to become a much better researcher than I could ever hope to be.