In a sea of university stands competing for attention at UCAS Birmingham 2025, Adgen helped Birmingham City University (BCU) stand out like never before: with a life-sized, AI-powered holographic avatar.
By integrating cutting-edge technology with a strategic goal of increasing visibility and memorability, Adgen created a bold and immersive student experience that was impossible to ignore.
The Ask
The aim was clear: get noticed.
With hundreds of institutions vying for student attention, Adgen wanted to deliver something radically different for BCU, something that would:
- Turn heads from across the exhibition hall
- Create meaningful engagement with prospective students
- Increase memorability and awareness around BCU’s offering, particularly its upcoming open day
This was a standalone activation – but one that embodied Adgen’s broader mission: to fuse creativity with relevance for results that stick.
Our Approach
Adgen drew inspiration from the technology used in high-profile global venues like The Sphere in Las Vegas and asked, ‘Why not here?’ That question led to a UK higher education first, a ChatGPT-integrated, human-sized 3D hologram, installed inside a dramatic Glass Box L3 protective frame.
The unit combined three synchronised vertical displays to create a stunning 3D effect, enhanced by a full-range hi-fi sound system and crystal-clear voice integration powered by ChatGPT.
The hologram was pre-trained with BCU course information and key FAQs with integrated brand safety and restrictions to keep engagements high quality.
Results
From the moment the exhibition opened, the hologram drew in students, teachers and even other uni reps! Students approached out of curiosity and stayed to interact, asking open-ended questions mainly around courses, campus life, and next steps.
The hologram wasn’t a replacement for human interaction, it was a magnet for it.
BCU reps were on hand to follow up and turn conversations into deeper engagement. Feedback ranged from ‘That’s so cool!’ to genuine intrigue around how AI could be used in education.
The hologram achieved its core objective: helping BCU stand out in a crowded space – in a way that aligned with its brand and left a lasting impression.
Why It Matters
At a time when prospective students are more distracted than ever, Adgen is proving that innovation isn’t just about novelty – it’s about relevance. The use of AI, holography and immersive media wasn’t a gimmick; it was a well-executed, on-brand tactic to attract and engage the right audience.
‘We’re always looking for ways to help our university partners stand out, but only when it fits the brief and adds real value’, said Emma Price, Associate Director at Adgen. ‘This was a first for us and the sector, and it worked’.
Looking Ahead
Adgen is already exploring how this technology could be adapted for other events, formats, or deeper integrations. The project is a clear example of how higher education marketing can, and should, embrace bold ideas with strategic purpose.