Studying abroad is a transformative experience, and for our friends who are currently doing a student exchange at the University of Birmingham, it’s an opportunity to embrace a new academic culture and lifestyle. Here, we share the perspectives of four students from Batch 2022 on their academic experience in the UK.
Asya highlights the value of the UK’s academic structure. “In the UK, classes are often seminar-based, where students actively engage in discussions, fostering critical thinking,” she explained. “In contrast, in Indonesia, lectures are more common, and there’s less emphasis on pre-class preparation.” Asya is studying modules like Crime and Antisocial Behaviour and Consumer Behaviour and appreciates the UK’s focus on independent learning, which she feels has helped her grow academically.
Similarly, Laras finds the UK’s student-teacher dynamic refreshing. “Lecturers here are less formal, and there’s no sense of seniority between students and lecturers,” she said. She enjoys the interactive nature of seminars and group discussions in courses like Organisations, Management, and Entrepreneurship and Consumer Behaviour. “In Indonesia, classes were more lecture-focused, with fewer opportunities for group interaction,” Laras added, noting that the UK system also allows her to work on final projects instead of exams.
Dinara was drawn to the UK for its diverse culture and rich history. “The UK’s diversity brings together people from all backgrounds, creating an enriching environment to learn from others,” she shared. Dinara is studying Consumer Behaviour, Employment Relations, and Fundamentals of Leadership and appreciates the dynamic learning approach, which includes lectures, seminars, and workshops. “The UK system encourages independent thinking and participation, which is very different from Indonesia’s more lecture-based approach,” she said.
Lastly, Katherin reflects on the flexibility of the UK education system. “The UK focuses on discussions, with a mix of lectures, seminars, and workshops,” she said. She also values the independent learning aspect. “I have more free time here, allowing me to manage my studies at my own pace, something that wasn’t as prominent in Indonesia.”
For these students, studying in the UK has been a unique and enriching experience, offering both academic growth and cultural exploration.
Written by Nabila Nurul Maharani