Jhundon Mendi

Why did you originally apply to do BSc Computer Science at Birmingham?

I chose Birmingham for a number of reasons. After a few weeks of staring at the same league table, I finally decided that Birmingham was the place I wanted to be. This was because of the outstanding career prospects, the communication I received from the University, and opportunities I would have after finishing my course. Of all the universities I applied to, the University of Birmingham was the first to respond to me and continued to help me throughout the application process.

What do you think are the best points of BSc Computer Science?

The best thing about studying at UoB is the variety of viewpoints you encounter through your modules. The core modules have so far given me a glimpse into the kinds of subjects I had yet to explore before starting university. Some of them even encourage you to expand on the methodologies and teaching styles you have already studied. The ability to break down the problems helps you get a sense of what it's like to be a Computer Science student despite the fact that it may seem simple at first.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

There are many benefits to studying Computer Science, but the community is the most important. Even though computer science is a highly competitive field, the people who work and study there are truly unique! You get to know a lot of wonderful people who are there to support you on your journey, and even help you form unexpected friendships. People have different ideas and approaches, but that is what makes Computer Science awesome, because there are no restrictions on how it can be used. Being part of such a community helped to ease my concerns about beginning somewhere new because there will always be someone willing to help out. You'll also meet a group of people who will support you as you work together to complete this challenging course.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

My work as a Project Assistant for the 2023 University of Birmingham Festival (UoBe Festival) was a career high point as I got to work behind the scenes at one of the biggest events the University has ever hosted. I say that this is my greatest accomplishment to date because, despite being challenging, the role was incredibly rewarding. It also demonstrates the fact that even a student like myself can try things that aren't typical for the subject. The way you manage your life while taking this course can be as flexible as you like.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying BSc Computer Science?

Don't let the fact that this degree is "one of the difficult degrees" deter you from pursuing it. Computer Science is no different from the vast majority of degrees in that it isn't supposed to be straightforward and easy. But that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun doing it.

Take advantage of all available services, workshops, and societies (such as the Computer Science Society), to develop your character and acquire valuable skills that will be useful in the near future. There are times when more than one thing may catch your attention; this can be intimidating, but if you take things one step at a time, your future will become clear.