September 2026

Zain's Story

By Zain Haaziq

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Zain Haaziq

Zain has turned an early interest in business into a passion for marketing, choosing a degree that felt creative, current and full of possibility.

Recommended to University College Birmingham by his counsellor, he was drawn by the course and by Birmingham itself.

“Ever since I chose business subjects for my A-levels, I knew I wanted to stay in this field,” said Zain. “Marketing felt like the right next step because it offered something different from a traditional business degree.”

The course quickly took him beyond the lecture theatre.

Guest speakers brought industry insight into the classroom, while a London visit for his marketing intelligence module gave Zain and his classmates real-world content to build into their assignment.

He also stood out in his SEO module, earning one of only two certificates awarded to students in his cohort.

“I’ve always enjoyed guest speakers because you get actual industry insight from experienced people, not just theory,” said Zain. “The London trip was refreshing too. It gave us the chance to get out of town, work together and build content for our assignment.”

Volunteering has sharpened his confidence too. Through the West Midlands Tourism Awards and International Women’s Day Conference, Zain developed the teamwork, adaptability and networking skills employers value.

“Working at the West Midlands Tourism Awards and International Women’s Day Conference taught me that not everything goes to plan,” said Zain.

“Practical experience teaches you to adapt, connect with people and keep learning as you go.”

Support has been a big part of Zain’s UCB experience, with his lecturers helping him stay motivated, focused and ambitious.

“I genuinely don’t know where I would be without their constant help and support,” said Zain. “It feels great knowing that so many people believe in you and want to see you succeed.”

Away from his studies, Zain has built strong friendships through his course and volunteering, while spending his free time trying new food spots, exploring Birmingham and fitting in trips to London.

“I’ve had an amazing time with UCB and Birmingham,” said Zain. “It’s a big city, it’s much more affordable than London, it’s super diverse and the chip shops are second to none.”

*Formerly Marketing Management BA (Hons)

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