My degree at Swansea University provided a strong foundation that directly supported my transition into industry. It not only equipped me with essential technical skills but also prepared me for real-world project work and interviews.
My focus on game development during university helped me secure a role at a game testing company, which further strengthened my experience before joining JLR.
At JLR, I’ve applied my C programming knowledge to contribute to battery performance optimisation projects. Additionally, my experience with C# and game development gave me a unique advantage when working in the Human- Machine Interface (HMI) team, particularly in developing interactive user experiences. The course structure, practical assignments, and exposure to diverse programming languages gave me the confidence and ability to adapt quickly in a professional setting.
One of my absolute favourite things about Swansea University was the amazing academic support. The mentors truly cared about us, not just as students, but as individuals. I always felt like I could approach them as friends, not just lecturers. They guided me through the tough times and celebrated the wins, and I’m still in touch with a few of them today. Their support played a huge role in building my confidence and helping me grow, both personally and professionally.
Then there’s the location. Swansea Bay Campus is like something out of a postcard. Waking up to stunning sea views from my top floor window was something special. Whenever I felt stressed, I’d go for peaceful walks along the beach, music in my ears and waves at my feet. It was the perfect reset and honestly, something I’ll never forget.
Lastly, I loved the calm, laid-back vibe of Swansea itself. It’s a city full of charm and character, with so much history to explore. And when I wanted a bit of adventure, there were always nearby spots for hikes, drives, and picnics. It’s that rare blend of coastal calm and vibrant student life that made Swansea feel like home.
Choosing Swansea University was the result of thorough research, not just into the course content, but also the backgrounds of potential lecturers. Although I received offers from higher-ranked universities (including one in the top 10), I chose Swansea, ranked 11th in Software Engineering at the time. Why? Because the course structure, student satisfaction, and strong post-study opportunities especially for international students really stood out. Honestly, the beachside location totally wasn’t a factor... Okay, maybe just a little. But in the end, it’s about finding the right fit, not just chasing rankings that might not reflect what matters to you.
Swansea University became a second home, where I built lasting connections with peers and mentors. Studying software engineering under excellent guidance, I gained both technical skills and memorable experiences, from participating in events like Google Hash Code to late night exam preparation sessions in the library with friends.
I would absolutely recommend Swansea University to anyone considering higher education in the UK. The academic support is exceptional, with approachable lecturers who genuinely care about your success. The course content is well-structured and relevant to industry needs, helping students graduate with strong, practical skills. The coastal location adds a unique charm—studying just minutes from the beach is something truly special. Swansea itself is a peaceful, friendly city that offers a more relaxed university experience, ideal for those wanting focus without the distractions of a busy metropolis. It’s a place where you can thrive both academically and personally.
What advice would you give to students who want to pursue your career?
Software engineering is a broad and dynamic field, and choosing a specialization early can help you build strong, focused foundations. While I studied primarily in Java, I found my strengths in C programming and later applied C# in areas like game development and user interface design. My advice is to focus on mastering the core principles of programming—once you understand the fundamentals, transitioning between languages becomes much easier. Each language has its nuances, but the underlying logic and problem-solving skills remain consistent. Stay curious, keep learning, and don’t be afraid to explore different areas until you find your niche.
