# data[].attributes.body
Everyone says that it often rains in the UK, but I find this day particularly pleasant and beautiful. Normally, it’s only on sunny days that I feel relaxed and rejuvenated.

# data[].attributes.body
I think it’s always been difficult for me to completely be myself and not just blend into what others do or say. I have been taking a pause and breathe this year just to completely be myself even if with people or just alone. Honestly loving it 🧿

# data[].attributes.body
I’m proud of myself for making it all the way to 3rd year! I made new friends, secured an internship, was a committee member for a society, gained experience as a student rep and completed the Birmingham award along the way. Despite having spinal surgery last December, looking back now I’ve accomplished many things that little me would be so proud of 🥳

# data[].attributes.headline
Change in the pace of life and environment

# data[].attributes.subject
Change in the pace of life and environment

# data[].attributes.body
I come from a rural village in west Wales where everyone knew each other and I was only 5 minutes from the beach. Steadily progressing from a small High School to the biggest 6th Form in the county was, what I thought, a big jump. Now going from a 6th form of 250 to a Uni campus of over 30,000 and leaving that country life behind was an even bigger jump. Yes I still miss the sea and the tranquility of the countryside but through engaging with social and friendly societies, I have been able to make Birmingham home. Now wondering through a massive campus doesn’t seem so daunting anymore and there’s usually someone to stop and say hello to! I hope I’ve been able to make 8 yr old me proud at just how far I’ve come

# data[].attributes.body
I've made amazing friends here at Birmingham, which is a big deal for the scared person I was when I first landed here. My circle keeps me going even when I feel too tired or overwhelmed, and I've loved exploring this city and country with them! <3

# data[].attributes.body
I come from a country where most girls don’t get the opportunity pursue their dreams. Being a girl living alone in another country is not considered the most desirable thing by the society. I am proud to have learned how to live in a new country where I knew no one. I am proud that I left my comfort zone and put myself in positions that were uncomfortable for me, just so that I’d get the growth I was looking for. I am proud that I unlearned habits that were restricting me from being the best version of myself. I’m proud that I learned how to live without my family, something I previously thought was impossible for me to do. And most of all, I’m proud I learned how to balance my personal growth with my studies.

# data[].attributes.body
This year, I’m incredibly proud of how I’ve balanced professional growth with my university commitments. I successfully converted my HSBC internship into a graduate scheme offer, completed The Birmingham Award, and had the honor of attending the BBS Awards. Beyond my own milestones, I loved giving back to the UoB community by working as a Student Ambassador and supporting the Careers Network, helping others navigate their own journeys while I prepared for my own

# data[].attributes.headline
I’m proud of staying in university despite the challenges I faced

# data[].attributes.subject
I’m proud of staying in university despite the challenges I faced

# data[].attributes.body
I’m an international student studying mathematics, and since I started my Foundation Year I’ve been struggling with my mental health. Moving to a new country after I’d just turned 18 had its effects on me, but I made it to 1st year. During my 1st year I faced immense unpredictable circumstances that severely impacted my health. I had to repeat the year, but failed my exams and was forced to withdraw from the course. I can safely say that was the hardest period of my life. Despite everybody urging me to give up or choose an easier degree, I filed an appeal, explained my circumstances and was granted another chance. Last year I finally passed my first year exams and this year I’ve been integrating well into my 2nd year. I’m proud of myself for not giving up on my dream of studying mathematics even when facing massive obstacles.

# data[].attributes.body
Like I said in the posts, and in person- battling my imposter syndrome and convincing myself I belong to the rooms I walk into.

# data[].attributes.body
This year I’m proud of building my fitness and being able to play regular football.

# data[].attributes.body
I’m proud to put my effort to the fullest in the Botanical Garden Challenge and presented using the animation video in front of the CEO of Birmingham Botanical Gardens today. The idea I directed received positive feedback, which made the experience especially meaningful and motivating for me.

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I'm proud of myself for reciprocating the support that the people around me have given - my friends, family, peers have helped me through so real lows this semester and I am so grateful to be able to give them the same support when they're needing it. In fact, I would love to gift the care package to one of my friends in particular because of the way they've handled their anxiety during exam season. I'm so proud of them 🥰

# data[].attributes.headline
Securing a Summer Internship after 6 months of hard, long application processes!

# data[].attributes.subject
Securing a Summer Internship after 6 months of hard, long application processes!

# data[].attributes.body
I’m proud of pushing myself out of my comfort zone and applying to over 50 internships and completing assessments and interviews whilst juggling my first term assignments and exams. I ended up with 2 very good offers and have chosen a 12 week role in London. Staying ontop of all of this wasn’t easy, and I’m proud I didn’t give up meaning I could secure an internship and get 1sts on my assignments and exams of first semester.

# data[].attributes.body
Despite many mental health struggles and life changes, I've made through final year in one piece and got a place on a PhD that I'm really excited to start :)

# data[].attributes.body
My career dream is to become a qualified lawyer, and I was recently accepted into Cardiff University to do a conversion course! It is terrifying making such a big change from a Psychology degree, and I’m beyond proud of myself! To top it off, I’ll be leaving Birmingham with the Birmingham Award with Distinction. I also completed my first half marathon this year, which is an incredible achievement for me! Determination and hard work can get you anywhere- the body achieves what the mind believes!☺️

# data[].attributes.headline
Staying Resilient in the Face of Uncertainty

# data[].attributes.subject
Staying Resilient in the Face of Uncertainty

# data[].attributes.body
I'm a final year student, about to graduate in a month. I'm facing a lot of uncertainty on what comes next, and as an international student, it took longer than I realized to finally get used to being here. Now that this phase is ending too, I am having many feelings about what could come next, and what has passed. I'm proud of myself for trying to have a positive outlook and remain open to opportunities, and being confident that I can handle what comes my way, no matter what.

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of myself for the effort I have put into my first year at university. I’ve found it really challenging to balance all the contact hours of medicine, revision, playing university sport, and learning to live independently. Despite it at times feeling stressful and overwhelming, I’ve had a great time overall and can’t believe I have almost made it through my first year! Whilst I have not been as successful as I would have hoped in all my exams and assignments so far this year, I am really proud of myself for not letting it knock me back and continuing to do the best I can to improve. I hope that my continued perseverance throughout the year means that I will pass my exams and can progress onto second year, but regardless of exam results, I am proud of myself for trying my best and giving it my best shot as the first person in my family to study medicine.

# data[].attributes.body
I did my bachelors in Europe at age 16 and I had to live alone

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of myself for participating in different events all across the university and meeting many people during this tenure.

# data[].attributes.headline
Getting involved in societies and finding my community at uni

# data[].attributes.subject
Getting involved in societies and finding my community at uni

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I’m proud of at uni is getting involved in societies, especially ISoc. It helped me meet new people, make friends, and feel part of a proper community outside of lectures. A big highlight was helping out during ISoc Charity Week, where everyone came together to raise money for good causes. It was really rewarding to be part of something bigger and see how much students can achieve when they work together. Overall, societies have helped me grow in confidence and made my uni experience much more meaningful.

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I am proud of myself for took that decision.

# data[].attributes.subject
I am proud of myself for took that decision.

# data[].attributes.body
This is not about , I achieved this and that here. So .......

# data[].attributes.headline
Completed Birmingham Award with Distinction

# data[].attributes.subject
Completed Birmingham Award with Distinction

# data[].attributes.body
I still remember arriving at the University of Birmingham, feeling excited but also unsure of where I truly belonged and how to make the most of my time there.

# data[].attributes.body
I've discovered the campus, met amazing people and attended memorable events. I'm making progress and proud of my first small steps in my first year of research. I can see what's behind me and am looking forward to what's next too.

# data[].attributes.body
This year at university, I signed up to do a range of sports including ultimate frisbee and badminton. Although I'm not that great at either sport, I had a lot of fun playing the game and most importantly meeting new people and friends!

# data[].attributes.body
Interviews are terrifying, and I left this particular one feeling like Id absolutely bricked it. When they invited me back, I almost didnt go bc I was so embarrassed after round 1, but I preserved, showed up and then got an offer 🎉

# data[].attributes.body
The stress has gotten to me and life in general, so me making it this far is quit surprising. Am happy i did. Whish me luck in my exams

# data[].attributes.body
I’m really proud of myself for saying yes to more opportunities this year. Whether it was trying something outside my comfort zone, taking on new challenges, or just being more open to experiences, it’s helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect.

# data[].attributes.body
After lots and lots of applications I was incredibly happy to be accepted for an international internship in research over the summer

# data[].attributes.body
In November 2025 I got diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. As an international student, I had to find a way to balance continuing with uni life away from my support system whilst accepting that my life and mobility would be changing. I got broken up with because of my diagnosis, and I had all these tough feelings to deal with whilst managing physical limitations. Still, I managed to navigate my assignments, build my social life, try new things outside my comfort zone (lots of runs and hikes), and have the best time ever whilst keeping myself healthy! I’m so pleased with myself and looking forward to getting even stronger!

# data[].attributes.headline
Signing up to a lot of different things!

# data[].attributes.subject
Signing up to a lot of different things!

# data[].attributes.body
I'm proud of myself for putting myself out there this year. I committed to 2 ensembles and performed with both across the year. I also worked in different jobs both in and out of uni, e.g. I was a graduation usher and a coding teacher for an after-school club for young children. This was very out of my comfort zone! Also, I completed the Masters team-based internship and met several Masters students through this. All of these experiences helped me to secure my graduate scheme, which was my biggest goal this year, so I'm really happy with myself :)

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of being able to volunteer and work on the side of doing my degree. Volunteering weekly at a charity shop, being a Parish Councillor, being a Student Ambassador, helping to support local community events by volunteering and designing posters, and making and running small gaming events with friends, while still finding time to relax and find fun things to do. I am proud of how far I have come.

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of the fact that I am pushing myself to try new hobbies that are out of my comfort zone! I’ve started trying out different sports that I have been scared to try previously such as Squash and padel! Although I originally struggled with both sports after a few sessions I can see gradual improvements! For me, the most important thing is that I tried something new and had fun doing so! My next goal is to give climbing a go :)

# data[].attributes.headline
I’m proud of myself for facing my fears!

# data[].attributes.subject
I’m proud of myself for facing my fears!

# data[].attributes.body
One of the achievements I am most proud of this year is winning the internal negotiation competition. Public speaking has always been something I have found genuinely difficult, and for a long time it was something I avoided rather than confronted. Entering the competition meant putting myself in exactly the kind of situation I would normally shy away from. Pushing through that discomfort, preparing thoroughly, and ultimately winning felt like a far more significant milestone than the result itself. It showed me that the things I find hardest are often the ones most worth doing!

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Proud of becoming the first in my family to study abroad

# data[].attributes.subject
Proud of becoming the first in my family to study abroad

# data[].attributes.body
I became the first person in my family to move abroad for education. Coming from a small town where even travelling alone felt uncommon, studying at a top UK university once seemed impossible for me.

# data[].attributes.body
After spending countless hours on applications, I was successful in securing an interview for an internship. The interview was an hour long and included a presentation. A week later I received a call that I was successful in securing the placement!

# data[].attributes.body
Have been having a little bit of a tough spot in the PhD Journey as of late but I've recently managed to get back on track and it feels amazing! I've been working really hard in the lab, spending evenings catching up on reading and managing to squeeze in some time for self-care. So looking forward to finally becoming a Birmingham grad and I am constantly thinking of that dream!!

# data[].attributes.body
I never knew I had a business brain being from the field of Biology. I am really proud of the fact that I entered into the competition of female founders which was by giving it a chance.

# data[].attributes.body
I ran London marathon getting the time I wanted, making all the long cold winter training runs worth it, and have been on top of my studies whilst doing it

# data[].attributes.headline
Proud that I completed my study year abroad in Japan 🇯🇵

# data[].attributes.subject
Proud that I completed my study year abroad in Japan 🇯🇵

# data[].attributes.body
Thanks to UoB, I went on a study year abroad in Japan this academic year. It was tough at times with the language barrier and cultural differences and I missed my friends and family greatly but, I am proud of myself for taking on the challenge of learning a new language and living in a foreign country by myself! Thank you UoB for this amazing experience!

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I am proud of myself for enjoying my year abroad in the Netherlands

# data[].attributes.subject
I am proud of myself for enjoying my year abroad in the Netherlands

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of myself for spending my year abroad making friends, working hard and finding time for myself, despite homesickness, stress and plumbing issues :')

# data[].attributes.headline
Being an International Student in the UK

# data[].attributes.subject
Being an International Student in the UK

# data[].attributes.body
Deciding to move internationally for better opportunities is quite daunting. You say bye to all of yourcreature comforts, your family, and friends. All these things helped mold you and we rely on these to get through hard times. Doing this while completing a post-graduate degree, amidst securing housing, a bank account, new phone number, visa, etc. is exhausting. S/O to all the international students for your resiliancy and determination to follow your dreams. I am proud to be apart of the international community at UOB bc in our international communities we find a new home.

# data[].attributes.headline
Getting through despite my mental health struggles

# data[].attributes.subject
Getting through despite my mental health struggles

# data[].attributes.body
My university experience so far has been far from easy. I have severe anxiety and depression which made every year of uni also a year battling to stay alive. Tackling both my mental health, physical health and uni course was immensely difficult (harder with my ADHD as well) and I thought I wouldn’t be able to complete it. But here I am in my final month or so at university about to get my degree. So I’m really proud of what I’ve achieved even through hardship.

# data[].attributes.headline
I married my husband, who I met during the first week of uni at UoB!

# data[].attributes.subject
I married my husband, who I met during the first week of uni at UoB!

# data[].attributes.body
Georgios and I were in the same small group at medical school. We hit it off immediately and started dating in October 2021. He proposed on our three-year dating anniversary in front of the Vale lake, where we used to go for walks together when I lived at Mason in first year. We tied the knot on April 18th, 2026 in my hometown of Chicago, Illinois. Forever proud to be UoB grads and doctors!

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I am proud to have volunteered at Winterbourne house as a part of the Conservation and Engagment team!! I am proud that I undertook the role and pushed myself outside of my comfort zone!!

# data[].attributes.headline
The Power of Small Wins: consistency over perfection

# data[].attributes.subject
The Power of Small Wins: consistency over perfection

# data[].attributes.body
I arrived in the UK last October to begin my PhD, just weeks after getting married. It has been a whirlwind transition, but I am proud that I didn't let the scale of these changes intimidate me. My focus has been on consistency over perfection—showing up every day and making progress little by little. I’m proud of the steady steps I’m taking to build both my research and my new life.

# data[].attributes.body
Looking back over this period, I am most proud of achieving an annual return of 20% through stock and gold trading. It was never easy. I went through countless self-doubts, emotional internal friction, and endured huge market pressure and mental struggles. I kept learning, adjusted my mindset constantly, and persisted through all the hardships. This experience has made me more resilient, rational and disciplined, and I truly cherish this hard-won achievement.

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of the perseverance and determination to my studies, when imposter syndrome and doubt crept in.

# data[].attributes.body
I was incredibly nervous and daunted by applying to this course as it requires an interview and a high level of stats knowledge. I tried it anyway and found out I got in a few weeks ago. I'm incredibly happy and excited for what's to come!

# data[].attributes.body
I recently ran the Birmingham half marathon, with this being the longest distance I have ever run! I am incredibly proud of myself for going outside of my comfort zone and completing something that felt impossible a year ago when I was struggling with my mental health. I ran the race with my amazing friends who supported me throughout the journey and I loved every second of it! It was definitely a reminder that I can do hard things and push myself further than I could have ever imagined! I already have my next race planned :)

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of persevering even when I wanted to give up. In my first year, I struggled with moving out and making friends and was ready to drop out but this degree had been my goal for years so I stayed and found some friends. I did a year abroad where I was scared to live in a foreign country alone and almost didn't get on the plane but it was the best decision I made as I met people from different countries, travelled and learnt many life lessons. I'm in my final year and I still doubt my academic ability with exams coming up. But again I am carrying on and I am proud that I am now only a month away from finishing the degree of my dreams!

# data[].attributes.body
Training for my first marathons whilst balancing uni work and exam revision! 😊

# data[].attributes.headline
Secured a grad role in London after many trials and tribulations

# data[].attributes.subject
Secured a grad role in London after many trials and tribulations

# data[].attributes.body
I secured a grad role in tech consultancy at one of the biggest tech firms in the world. I am quite a nervous, over thinker of a person so it’s taken me a while to really process it and be proud of myself. I’ve realised that I know no one else from my hometown (friends, friends of friends etc) that have left the region after university and that really changed my perspective. I feel like I’ve made the little girl who grew up in that town feeling like she didn’t fit in so proud. I’m excited for my new adventure that I’ve worked so hard for over these past 3 years!

# data[].attributes.body
I began my PhD journey this year, and it has been a roller coaster ride so far. Despite experiencing several episodes of panic attacks and constant anxiety, I continue to show up each day - coping, progressing and growing. I am proud of myself for this.

# data[].attributes.body
Since I arrived to the UK from Syria in September to do my MA at UoB, I set a challenge to complete 100 hours of volunteering during term-time in different heritage sites around Birmingham. I succeeded by achieving 115 hours from October to April. This experience allowed me to gain new skills in my field, connect with the local community, and expand my professional network.

# data[].attributes.body
Last month I overcame my anxiety and presented my work at a conference in front of experts. To me this was so nerve-wracking, I was worried I would mess up, get things wrong and look silly in front of everyone. However, I spoke to other student at the conference who came and supported me during my presentation and had some amazing discussions about my work with experts in the field and got some possible collaborations for future work going. I am super proud of myself for doing this and being brave enough to get up and present.

# data[].attributes.body
I study Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Birmingham - and yes, that means I now look at every street, building and empty plot and think,“that could be better.”

# data[].attributes.body
This semester I’ve really embraced spending time alone and going things that make me happy, dedicating more times to me hobbies and studies despite getting dumped 🎉

# data[].attributes.body
Attended lectures even when not feeling it

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud that despite the challenges l faced l managed to persevere and make progress towards my research project. Learning to be more patient, flexible and not give up🙂

# data[].attributes.body
Moving forward and not giving up when l faced challenges in my research project.

# data[].attributes.headline
1st Year broke me, then I rebuilt and defined myself!

# data[].attributes.subject
1st Year broke me, then I rebuilt and defined myself!

# data[].attributes.body
At one point this year, rejection started to feel normal.

Application after application, “unfortunately” became a word I saw more than anything else. Over 100 times, I was told no! and after a while, it stops feeling like feedback and starts feeling personal: like maybe you’re just not enough.

That’s the part people don’t really talk about.

Not the success, but the moments where your confidence quietly drops, where you question if you should keep going at all. I came close to stopping more than once.

But I didn’t.

Not because I was always motivated, but because I made a decision not to let rejection be the thing that defines me. Even when I doubted myself, I kept applying, kept improving, and kept putting myself in rooms I wasn’t sure I belonged in yet.

And eventually, one of those rooms said yes.

I was selected for the Howden Insight Programme in reinsurance, from over 600 applicants through a competitive interview process.

That moment mattered. But what matters more to me is who I had to become to get there; someone who can face rejection repeatedly and still choose to continue.

This year, I didn’t just achieve something. I changed the way I see myself.

Because in the end, it only took one YES but it took everything in me not to stop before I got there.

# data[].attributes.body
Alhamdulillah, I have always wanted to start a podcast, and am three seasons into the process. I have learned so much from my peers and made really lovely friends along the way  - shoutout to Lily, Eden and Troy! Despite the difficulty of maintaining an engineering degree, I still manage to release really good episodes, alhamdulillah, and I love listening back to them. If you would like to have a listen, type in 'This Stays Between Us' by Zarin Khan with Be The Change Media Network. Enjoy!

# data[].attributes.headline
Moving forward even when things are tough

# data[].attributes.subject
Moving forward even when things are tough

# data[].attributes.body
I have been having a tough time for alot of reasons recently but I am so proud that I have not given up. I have had support from so many amazing individuals and I've been able to get to where I am now which is in a better space and achieving everything I've aimed for.

# data[].attributes.body
Sometimes I feel like I don't belong at university and that I'm not 'good enough' to be here. It's feeling like I'm about to be “found out” as a fraud at any moment. That little voice of doubt is quite loud! So I'm proud that I have kept going despite the nagging voice and seeing how far I’ve come.

# data[].attributes.headline
Proud of keeping all the plates spinning!

# data[].attributes.subject
Proud of keeping all the plates spinning!

# data[].attributes.body
I've successfully balanced working 2 jobs part-time, moving home (downsizing!), being diagnosed ADHD, turning 62, and studying for the first time in 30 years ..... and getting pretty decent marks in my MRes module assessments.  I've enjoyed it all and can't wait for year 2!

# data[].attributes.body
I applied for a grant for my society and got a really good amount of money to go towards our end of year ball, which will help to decrease ticket prices for our members who will have a great time!

# data[].attributes.headline
I improved my grade average from a 2:2 to a 1st!

# data[].attributes.subject
I improved my grade average from a 2:2 to a 1st!

# data[].attributes.body
I have taken so much time over my coursework assessments, that going into my Yr 2 exams I do not feel pressure to drag my grades up, the way I did last year. This has come from work with my tutor, the academic skills centre and basically living in the study spaces.

# data[].attributes.body
I am grateful for the Gift of Life! I know it sounds so cliche but honestly I am. I truly believe it is a gift from God. Sometimes life can be amazing and sometimes it can be tough  but above all I am grateful for it! I am able to walk and be with family and friends ! As a final year student happy that my university of Birmingham journey has been beautiful but has come to a full stop !

# data[].attributes.body
I am grateful for the amazing gift of life !

# data[].attributes.body
Earlier this year, I applied to five placements to do a professional dissertation next year. I most wanted to work for Birmingham City Council in their Public Health Department, but this was the most competitive placement. I was one of four people to get to interview and then one of two who got the placement! This was my first interview and I was very proud of that the work and preparation I did to get there paid off.

# data[].attributes.body
This year has been one of the most transformative chapters of my life. I survived my first winter abroad, embraced the snow, and stepped far outside my comfort zone — meeting new people, learning a new language, and building meaningful connections with international students from around the world.

# data[].attributes.body
I’m proud of successfully completing my first law essay in my LM Creative Industries and the Law module. I had no previous experience studying law, and writing a 4,000-word essay using legal concepts was a big challenge for me. However, I managed to complete it, which made me feel more confident in handling new and unfamiliar subjects.

# data[].attributes.headline
Winning two hackathons in my first year at Birmingham

# data[].attributes.subject
Winning two hackathons in my first year at Birmingham

# data[].attributes.body
When I started my MSc, I never expected hackathons to become such a defining part of my journey. But this year, I won two, building real solutions under pressure alongside diverse teammates. The experience pushed me to think bigger.

# data[].attributes.headline
A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Proud Achievements

# data[].attributes.subject
A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Proud Achievements

# data[].attributes.body
For me, this year has been full of achievements that I’m genuinely proud of. I completed The Birmingham Award by finishing more than seven tasks in March 2026, and went on to achieve the Birmingham Award with Distinction in April 2026. Alongside my studies, I’ve volunteered with several organisations including Hope for Epilepsy, Epilepsy Action, British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, and BIMA (British Islamic Medical Association). I have also had the privilege of serving as a Student Guild Representative for my school.

As a Chevening Scholar from Pakistan, I’ve embraced every opportunity to learn, connect, and give back. Under the Chevening umbrella, I have networked with over 500 current scholars and more than 600 alumni, collaborating with many of them to organise dozens of online sessions supporting applicants for Chevening and UK university admissions, a small gesture of gratitude to the UK Government and its people. Here at the University of Birmingham, I have continued to build meaningful connections with peers, faculty, visiting academics, Guild representatives, and fellow Chevening scholars.

I have also completed two short courses from the University of Cambridge, funded by Chevening, and participated in international conferences where I presented the abstract of my research—my 46th research paper. All of this has taken place since arriving in the UK for my master’s in September 2025, with many more plans already in motion. And of course, there have been countless small moments of friendship, community, and personal growth that matter just as much.

# data[].attributes.body
I'm so pleased to have worked hard and passed all my uni exams now :)

# data[].attributes.headline
Proud of completing my B-Experienced internship in market research

# data[].attributes.subject
Proud of completing my B-Experienced internship in market research

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I’m really proud of this year is completing my B-Experienced internship at SimplyBD. Over the placement, I worked on market research in the European nuclear sector, building structured country-level analysis and mapping out key stakeholders and supply chains.

# data[].attributes.headline
I'm proud of all the new friends I've made!

# data[].attributes.subject
I'm proud of all the new friends I've made!

# data[].attributes.body
I felt very daunted by the prospect of making friends when coming to uni, but I've put a real effort into making and sustaining friendships, and I'm very proud of the group I've got around me now!

# data[].attributes.body
I am deeply proud of my resilience as a postgraduate student at the University of Birmingham. I never imagined that I would study at such a respected university while balancing part‑time postgraduate studies with full‑time work, alongside my responsibilities as a wife and a mother. This journey has required constant determination, self‑belief, and perseverance, particularly during challenging moments. I am genuinely inspired by everything the University of Birmingham offers, both on campus and through its inclusive and supportive online learning environment. It is impossible to name just one thing I am proud of, this experience represents growth, achievement, and a sense of purpose that I value deeply.

# data[].attributes.body
After 4 long years, I will have finally finished my degree. That chapter of my life is done, and I am proud of what I have accomplished with it :D

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud that this year I completed a year abroad at Dalhousie University, in Nova Scotia Canada. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone by travelling to somewhere I have never been before by myself, and threw myself into the year by making as many friends as possible and engaging in every aspect of Canadian University life from intramural sports, to pep rallies, and lots of hiking!

# data[].attributes.body
When I began my master’s degree, I was optimistic and focused on my goals. However, I faced a period of personal challenges that led me to hit a low point, including failing a module and questioning my ability to continue. I also realised that I didn’t yet know how to deal with failure or rejection. Learning to navigate that, with the support of friends, family, and peers, and investing in myself became a turning point for me. I’m proud that I persevered, rebuilt my confidence, and rediscovered my direction.

# data[].attributes.body
I am proud of the way I navigated my first professional interview: it really challenged me! And as a result, I scored the internship!

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I defended my PhD Thesis (overcoming both grief and mental health challenges)

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I defended my PhD Thesis (overcoming both grief and mental health challenges)

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I overcame a lot of setbacks to defend my thesis! I lost my mum halfway through my PhD but I just know she would be proud of me! Could not be happier and more thankful for all those that have helped me achieve this (you know who you are!)

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I am proud to share that I have met people in classes and around school, and now we have formed a bond of friendship. At the start of my degree, nothing was easy for me. a new country, harsh weather, and a life where I didn't have anyone to talk to after school, but a few events that I attended, and I was able to meet fantastic people whom I talk to now every time I have something to share or talk about. My mood is so positive now, and I can focus on my studies knowing that I have people I can always reach out to about anything.

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It was a tough year, studying away without my wife and son. However, I made the most out of this opportunity to build my capacity and add skills to my resume. Besides university, I have translated one book, finished editing a whole educational series on YouTube, taught +30 students and finished many online courses. Maybe the most important thing is to know what I want to get from the MSc I am studying. I know exactly what to do next, and I discovered how difficult it is to beat the hardship... But it is possible and enjoyable.

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I cannot believe after 12 years of attending university I came back and started a PGDip Ed in teaching studies and I achieved a merit in my assignment ☺️.

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I am really proud that the countless hours spent making applications, wondering if I was doing things correctly and preparing for interviews all paid off! I went from doubting my abilities and not thinking I would get any work experience to having a wonderful week full of new experiences and wonderful opportunities this April!

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I am proud to have come out of my shell since leaving home for university. In the three years I have spent at Birmingham I have developed friendships I never imagined I could form, these are something I will cherish forever and view this as something that has shaped me as a person. I am additionally proud for persevering and working my hardest given external struggles outside of university occurring in family life. No matter how difficult times have been or upsetting I have maintained my focus on my university life and will always see it as a helping hand.

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For almost a year, I have been juggling full-time work, part-time school, and social / extra-curricular activities. While managing school learning material, lectures, and assignments, I have maintained and been supported by my close-knit social network and have been supported by my colleagues at work to handle and guide my career and job performance. Despite the busy schedule, I am happy and excited for what is still to come.

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I’m standing for election in my local area as a council candidate.

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I'm proud of how I have changed across the three years at University! I think it takes time for everyone to come out of their shells and be true to themselves and I have definitely become more confident and social in my final year!! It's very weird looking back on how awkward I was in my first year.

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I am proud of myself as I moved out for the first time to a different country with a different language chasing my dreams. Although all the difficulties I am proud that I didnt give up and got out from my comfort zone 😁

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This year i moved to the UK from India and it has been the most courageous and helpful decision ever. Especially after a life changing breakup, I had started thinking that maybe i should cancel. But so glad i did not!!

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Delivering a talk to a packed lecture hall

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Delivering a talk to a packed lecture hall

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During the Easter break, I was given the wonderful opportunity to deliver a talk to more than 80 year 12 students and more than 10 staff members on how I got into University including top tips for the application process. I usually get quite anxious talking in front of big crowds so my friends and family had to really encourage me to go for it but I’m so glad I did it in the end! I feel like I learnt valuable skills and I never knew how much I would enjoy public speaking. It really goes to show that you shouldn’t knock something before you try it!!

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I am proud of myself for juggling my degree apprenticeship MSc, working full time, buying a house and continuing to push on with my CPD.