Reflections on a meaningful year as an international PGR
I'm Fujia Yang, a third-year PhD student from the School of Education, originally from China. I transferred to the University of Birmingham from Durham University last year. From the beginning, I felt welcomed and included. With the encouragement of staff and PGR friends, I quickly became involved in activities and even had the chance to help host events. Highlights of the year included co-organising the UoB Research Poster Competition 2025 and the PGR badminton event, speaking at the PhD induction, and presenting at the “Should I Do a PhD?” seminar for undergraduates and taught postgraduates. I also had the privilege of presenting my research and serving as a judge at the UoB School’s Poster Competition—a special opportunity to engage with younger learners. These experiences helped me grow in confidence, leadership, and connection.
I am truly thankful to my supervisors who did their best to support my integration, and always encouraged me to participate.