Qiaoyu Deng

MA Jewellery and Related Products

Driven by the excellent reputation of the School of Jewellery and advice from one of her teachers, Qiaoyu chose to study at BCU. The long history and close connection to industry made her feel that the environment would allow her to develop her skills and creative direction in a meaningful way.

“The most important factor for my family and me when choosing a university was whether I would be able to gain practical and valuable professional knowledge. We placed great importance on the quality of teaching and whether the course would provide skills that would be useful for my future career development.

“One of my teachers was an Alumna of the School of Jewellery. She described her experience as very positive and emphasised the supportive learning environment, patient tutors and strong professional training. Her personal insights gave me confidence in choosing BCU and motivated me to study in the UK.

“Moving to a new city and studying in a second language made me feel uncertain at first and lacking in confidence. However, my tutors were always patient and supportive in their communication, taking the time to explain and encourage me. Their understanding and guidance helped me gradually build confidence and overcome this challenge.

“The teaching approach at BCU is strongly practice-oriented, with a clear focus on applying skills in real-world contexts. This has allowed me to develop practical experience alongside theoretical knowledge. Tutors are genuinely invested in students’ development and actively encourage independent thinking and creativity.

“I have been made to feel very welcome at the School of Jewellery. On my first day, the university organised a catwalk-style activity where all new students were randomly grouped and asked to create garments using newspaper. The atmosphere was lively and creative, which helped me quickly get to know my classmates and feel comfortable.

“When I first arrived in the UK, I also experienced a very special Chinese New Year. Tutors prepared oranges for us and organised activities such as playing mahjong, which made me feel a strong sense of warmth and belonging, even though I was far from home.

“In Birmingham, I’ve been able to stay connected with my culture by making friends with other students from China. We support each other closely, and when I have a problem in class, I can ask them for help and get explanations in my native language.

“Since becoming a student here, I have developed a much stronger sense of critical thinking, which has changed the way I approach both my studies and everyday life. Tutors place great emphasis on questioning, analysis, and reflection, and this has encouraged me to view issues from more critical and informed perspectives. As a result, I have become more independent and confident, more willing to express my own opinions, and have gradually developed a more mature and open way of thinking.”