Beyond borders
When Hashma Mustafa arrived for Welcome Week in September 2023, everything felt new: a new country, education system and culture. Like many international students, life at the University of Wolverhampton meant equal excitement and nerves.
Originally from Pakistan, Hashma came to study MSc Biomedical Sciences: “As an international student you think about everything – the subject, fees, support and how easy it will be to settle in,” she explains. Wolverhampton ticked every box.
The biggest difference in those early days, however, was people. On her first day, feeling lost, she approached a friendly student ambassador in a blue hoodie. “She didn’t just give me directions – she walked me to my lecture. That kindness stayed with me.”
That welcoming atmosphere set the tone for her time at Wolverhampton. Hashma quickly noticed how different the UK system felt – more independent and discussionbased. “You’re leaving your friends, your culture, everything familiar. That’s big,” she says. The diversity on campus and friendliness of staff and students helped her settle quickly.
Finding her voice
At first, Hashma focused solely on her studies. Extra-curricular opportunities weren’t something she had encountered during her undergraduate degree, and she wasn’t sure how to engage. A chance encounter with a lost grandmother looking for information about admissions changed that. Hashma stepped in to help, translating and guiding her to the right place.
That act led to a big opportunity. Staff encouraged her to become a student ambassador – a role that would transform her confidence. “I was introverted when I arrived. Communication was hard,” she admits. “Being a student ambassador completely changed that.”
Working open days, applicant events, Clearing and international campaigns, supporting prospective students online and in person, she often offered the perspective she had needed herself. “Sometimes students just need to see someone like them.”
By the time she completed her Master’s degree in September 2024, Hashma had built confidence and skills that would prove invaluable.
From student to staff member
After finishing her degree, Hashma converted to the Graduate visa. Exploring roles within and beyond her field, one stood out: graduate intern employment officer within the university’s careers service – now known as the Student Success Centre.
It felt full circle. “As a student, I didn’t really understand what careers services offered until the end of my degree,” she reflects. “The support with CVs, LinkedIn and my digital presence was incredible. I wish I had gone in earlier.”
Now working full-time in the centre, she helps students and graduates navigate exactly those challenges. Her recent student experience gives her unique insight. “I understand what students are worried about, especially international students. I can speak their language – sometimes literally.”
Alongside her university role, Hashma also works bank shifts as an associate practitioner in the NHS pathology department, staying connected to her biomedical background. The university’s flexibility and encouragement have allowed her to keep both paths open.
Supporting students – for life
The Student Success Centre plays a central role in supporting Wolverhampton students and graduates of all ages – including alumni who may have left years ago. “People are always surprised when they hear the support is for life,” Hashma says. “But it really is.”
The university is expanding professional placements, helping students gain industry experience and networks. For recent graduates, the centre offers tailored transition support, including graduate internships like Hashma’s, helping bridge the gap between study and professional life.
Giving back and looking ahead
Hashma believes alumni play a vital role too. By staying in touch, graduates can access lifelong support – and give back by inspiring the next generation. “Alumni success stories really help students overcome anxiety about the future,” she says. Alumni can support through guest talks, mentoring, placements, and industry insight.
As placement opportunities grow, alumni employers are encouraged to get involved to help shape future talent. If you could support student placements or university employability initiatives, email: alumni@wlv.ac.uk
As for Hashma, the future is wide open. She hopes to return to academia and pursue a PhD, while continuing to build experience and confidence. “This time has helped me understand myself better – what I want and what I’m capable of.”
