Mariyam's Story

Hey everyone! I’m Mariyam, from India and I’m currently a second-year undergraduate pursuing Biochemistry degree here in Birmingham.   

Choosing UoB and Biochemistry degree

After scrolling through a list of universities that I received an offer from, I chose UoB because of its great work in the field of research and since it’s one among the top Russell Group of Universities. Not just this, but it's a home to numerous ethnicities and supports rich cultural diversity. The breathtakingly beautiful campus has also been one of the reasons that attracted me. There are so many things happening like career fairs, internships, volunteering etc. which offer great opportunities to students. 

The reason for choosing Biochemistry degree was because I have always been intrigued by the complexity of the human body and wanted to explore the intricacies of it. How genes are modified, what metabolic pathways occur inside us, how we generate cures for catastrophic diseases and so on. These questions led me to choose a degree which could explain in depth of what I was looking for. 

Life in Birmingham 

I came to Birmingham in September 2023 which was no less than a dream come true. UoB has been so welcoming and one of the best things that has happened to me. The first day in Birmingham was an overwhelming one for me. It was around seven in the evening when I landed in Brum, all alone coming out of the airport as I struggled to drive my three huge suitcases with my two hands, the first time I had been just by myself. Now I look back and laugh at it, but it wasn’t funny at that moment.  

Walking out, I could feel the silence and peace the city held as my heart raced with nervs. The first day at uni involved me roaming around clueless, trying to figure out what Welcome Week events were going on and scanning where my lectures would take place. Emotions mixed into one another as I adjusted and started loving life in Birmingham. 

The kind of knowledge they impart here is not just theoretical but practical, which is exactly what I have always looked for. I love working in labs where I get to use complex yet fascinating machines under the supervision of such skilled professors - it’s an amazing feeling. 

Birmingham as a city is so serene and peaceful. I love to sit at my room window with a hot mug of coffee during my spare time. There are also a bunch of amazing cafes and restaurants here, serving cuisines from all around the world which is great news for all the food lovers like me. Chicken shawarma from Damascena, a steaming cup of tea from Chaiiwala and hot chocolate from Blank Street are some of my favorites and top my list of recommendations. 

Homesickness as an international student

At times I feel homesick, which is nothing new for an international student. I can feel low and struggle to cook, do laundry or go out to get groceries. It feels overwhelming and I miss back home more intensely but I feel since I’m here for a good cause, I should keep my goal in sight as these kinds of days will come and go eventually. It also helps to know that I’m not alone - check out student Fathima’s blog on how she combats homesickness as an international student.  

The best way I deal with feeling low is to facetime my parents in India. A facetime with my loved ones and just like that, things feel more manageable. I share the story of my entire day with them of what I did, where I went, what I ate, and listen to theirs. It makes me feel like we're not miles away.  

Sometimes when I can’t connect back home because of the difference in time zones, I visit my friends here, who live nearby and we cook together, play Jenga or maybe go out to stroll around town. I try and make sure to keep myself busy to avoid getting lost in thoughts. Above all else, I recognise this is a crucial phase of my life which would lead me to where I see myself; doing amazing research in the future. 

As I continue with my journey at UoB, I am so grateful to all those who had my back throughout my journey (especially my mum and dad who are my biggest cheerleaders) and the amazing individuals I have met at UoB who have made it feel like home here. I look forward to meeting more people and exploring the city!