When I first arrived in Birmingham, I felt so satisfied because that was where I knew I wanted to be. I never felt homesick for one moment, or terrified of what was going to be. I did feel insecure regarding the curriculum, as I had never done any coding before...
Patrisia Pascan, BSc Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with a Year in Industry
Why did you choose the University of Birmingham?
I chose Birmingham for Computer Science mainly because of the amazing alumni stories (11 Nobel Prize winners, if I'm not mistaken), the brilliant minds teaching here, and the global outreach. I wanted a place that would make me feel like anything could be possible, and from what I had read about it, it sounded like one. I also felt content about the fact that the entry requirements weren’t too crazy, because I was never top of my class in terms of grades, but there were still high standards.
How have you enjoyed your time so far?
I have loved my time at University so far, mainly because of all the support available, and the facilities I have access to. Everything is very well taken care of, the new buildings are so handy and well thought out, the labs are great, the study spaces... everything. I really enjoy spending time here and the 24hr access to the labs is a real life saver.
What do you think of the University's location?
Birmingham is amazing from every point of view. It's huge, which means tons of opportunities, diversity, and basically anything you'd want in a city. In terms of location, it's just perfect, the West Midlands makes trips to other big cities in the UK very accessible. The campus is very beautiful as well, always a joy to be around there. I often go on campus when I have work to do or in my free time just because it makes me feel so good.
What has the student/wellbeing support been like?
The student support has been amazing, there have always been people I can contact to give some advice and help me out with anything. We have weekly meetings with a personal tutor, where we typically discuss our progress, concerns… just about anything, and they guide us through our year basically.
What is your favourite area (module, theme etc.) of computer science?
My favourite area of computer science as of now is Security. We have just done 5 weeks of courses, but I find it very interesting. I love theoretical computer science in general, like maths etc.
Do you have any hobbies/are you part of any societies?
In terms of hobbies, I am a beekeeper and since the pandemic started, I’ve been torturing myself with 1000-piece puzzles of famous paintings. I am the Vice President of the Women in Tech Society and member of the CSS (Computer Science Society) and the MUNS (Model United Nations Society). Societies are great ways to meet new people, learn new things, get involved in all sorts of opportunities and many more.
If you have joined us from another country, how have you found your experience. Do you have any advice for incoming international students?
When I first arrived in Birmingham, I felt so satisfied because that was where I knew I wanted to be. I never felt homesick for one moment, or terrified of what was going to be. I did feel insecure regarding the curriculum, as I had never done any coding before and I felt that everyone knew everything and I knew nothing. But as time passed I found it much easier to ask for help and people were always friendly and willing to give a hand even when they didn’t know me. To the incoming international students, I would say to never be afraid to ask for help. There is no such thing as a stupid question and help will be given to those who ask for it.
Find out more about my programme - BSc Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science with a Year in Industry