Student Feedback - Computer Science and Technology

Uchendu Ebuka - MSc in Automotive Engineering for Electric Vehicles

Uchendu Ebuka

I am thrilled to share that I have achieved a Distinction in my MSc in Automotive Engineering with a specialized focus on Electric Vehicles! The journey through this program has been nothing short of exhilarating, delving into the intricate world of automotive technology and its evolution toward sustainable and electric solutions.

I am immensely grateful for the support of my professors, peers, and the cutting-edge curriculum that allowed me to explore the forefront of innovation in the automotive industry. This achievement signifies not only personal growth but also a commitment to contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future in the automotive sector.

A huge shout-out to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey! Dr Rostand Tayong, Rex Keen and Dr Rohitha Weerasinghe exciting times ahead as I look forward to applying my knowledge and skills in the dynamic field of electric vehicles.

Automotive Engineering BSc (Hons)

Shahirthyan Manivannan - Automotive Engineering BSc

Our lecturer for our practical sessions Rex Keen, is very knowledgeable in the subject area. Working hands on with the equipment we are being taught is making it easier for me to understand. There is a great atmosphere in the practical labs and we have the time to learn

Grigoris Grigoriou - Automotive Engineering BSc

I find our lab sessions very interesting and we have the opportunity for hands on experience with tools and learning how to use them. We apply what we have learnt in our lectures in the lab sessions, helping us to understand it better.

I always enjoy or lab sessions, we work in a professional manner and this teaches us to work properly and safely. We learn new things and gain work experience working on automotive parts.

Mohammad Khizzar - BSc (Hons) Informational Technology

Open AI Desktop AssistantMohammad Khizzar

As I, Mohammad Khizzar, conclude my journey in the BSc (Hons) Informational Technology course at the University of Bedfordshire, I reflect on the immense growth and knowledge gained during this transformative phase. Having successfully completed my classes, notably the undergraduate project and Advanced Informational Technology—both pivotal dissertation modules—I take pride in presenting a groundbreaking achievement, EDITH Pro MK3. This desktop assistant stands as a testament to my dedication, self-driven research, and a profound passion for artificial intelligence.

Article Overview:

Embarking on the creation of EDITH Pro MK3 has been a journey fueled by curiosity and a vision for an innovative solution in the realm of voice assistants. This article serves as a testament to the culmination of my efforts, providing an insightful look into the genesis and capabilities of EDITH Pro MK3. Woven into it's narrative is the integration of the OpenAI API key, affording EDITH Pro direct access to advanced language models like GPT-3.5 and GPT-4, thereby elevating its conversational and functional prowess.

Key Features:

EDITH Pro

Voice Interaction

EDITH Pro stands out with its intuitive voice interaction. Leveraging the speech_recognition module and pyttsx3 for natural text-to-speech responses, it fosters engaging and user-friendly conversations.

Task Execution

Offering versatility, EDITH Pro executes a myriad of tasks—from opening web applications and navigating social media platforms to launching desktop applications—all effortlessly managed through voice commands.

System Monitoring

EDITH Pro extends beyond conventional tasks by actively monitoring and reporting on system health. It assesses available resources, ensuring optimal desktop performance, and provides insights into current internet speeds.

Geolocation Services

Taking user experience a step further, EDITH Pro employs geolocation services. By determining the desktop's geographical location through the IP address, it enhances the contextual relevance of information and services.

News Fetching

Informed users are empowered users. EDITH Pro fetches the latest news, offering real-time updates on diverse topics—a vital feature for staying abreast of developments in both professional and leisure domains.

Conversational AI

Beyond task-oriented functionalities, EDITH Pro engages users in meaningful conversations. With the OpenAI API key, it taps into the expansive knowledge base of GPT-3.5 and GPT-4, ensuring nuanced and contextually relevant responses.

Web Information Retrieval

EDITH Pro's real-time web search capabilities, coupled with access to OpenAI's language models, enable it to fetch comprehensive and up-to-date information on a wide array of topics.

Future Development

EDITH Pro, far from reaching its zenith, envisions continuous growth. Future plans include regular updates to enhance functionalities, integrate state-of-the-art technologies, and incorporate user feedback. Positioned as an indispensable component of daily routines, EDITH Pro aims to redefine user interactions with technology.

In essence, EDITH Pro MK3 is not merely a desktop assistant; it represents a holistic AI solution—marrying sophisticated language models, advanced functionalities, and user-friendly interactions to shape the future of technology engagement."

James Bragg - BSc (Hons) Computer Science

I am delighted to be studying at my first university choice, the University of Bedfordshire, I will be heading into my second year of studies of my BSc (Hons) Computer Science course.

James Bragg

Whilst studying in my first year, I developed and improved on many vital skills such as teamworking, communication, and the value of these skills for my future career. I gained many skills to help me as a self-dependent learner. For example, how to undertake my own research and how to make best use of the fabulous facilities the University of Bedfordshire has to offer its students. An impressive example of the facilities available to students is the University Library, which was an ideal place when working in a syndicate to develop one of my software projects.

The facilities the University offers are excellent, and I believe these are helping to make my education the best. Especially, the new STEM building which offers many excellent modern resources for my Computer Science course. The facilities available have given me a clear picture of what working in the computing industry could be like. The University of Bedfordshire has worked hard to ensure that there were plenty of online resources available during the COVID-19 pandemic. The online lectures and practical online sessions, helped to make online learning as good as face to face teaching.

Marcin Frackiewicz - BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering

Marcin Frackiewicz

For the first time in my life, I can't wait to go back to school. I had a great time in my first year working on projects, attending events and lectures, even studying for exams. I met lots of people with whom I have great relations.

Recollecting all the projects, events, even studying for exams or some funny lecture that I spent time on together with my great friends I met at the University of Bedfordshire fills me with joy.

Projects have given me opportunities to co-operate, act as part of a team with my peers and develop standalone applications. I have experienced a variety of scenarios, this has given me a deeper understanding of how to approach them.

I happily recall brainstorming with my team mates over those projects. Towards the end, the last few days before the deadline, spending time together designing presentations and rehearsing them to perfection to highlight our hard work.

I am excited to enter the second year of my course, to attend all those new captivating units, spend time with interesting people and work hard to experience self-realisation.

Achieving goals is all about first steps and persistence. Believe in yourself, carry on and you shall experience fulfilment

Vladut-Costel Botezatu - BEng Mechanical Engineering

I have always been fascinated by mechanical engineering and how things are made and how they finally work. This is why I am now a student studying Mechanical Engineering in the School of Computer Science at the University of Bedfordshire.
Vladut-Costel Botezatu
Since the first year of my studies I had access to a lot of information that I was interested in, and I have learned how to create mechanical drawings using software such as AutoCAD and simulator like Ansys.

The most important thing that I have learnt and understood during my second year is how engines work, for example, Otto and Diesel engines.

I enjoy the fact that we have lot of projects, these projects are really useful, as they give us the opportunity to practice what we have learned. The projects have also helped me to improve my communication skills as well as my ability to work as part of a team.

I am eager to see what I will learn in my third and final year of studies. I am sure I will have a great opportunity in the future to work in a domain related to my studies, as I have always wanted.

I would also like to say, I am really thankful to our lecturers, they are always dedicated and they are always there to help, especially during online courses.

During the third year, we shall be continuing with the project ‘Formula 1’ guided by a senior lecturer at the university. This project entails designing and assembling a racing car, in a competition with other universities.

I can't wait to resume this project which began in the second year, but due to the pandemic it was postponed. I’m very excited about being a part of this project, working in a team and learning a lot.

Kautilya Reddy Chappidi - BSc (Hons) Artificial Intelligence and Robotics

As soon as my classes started, I was intrigued by the sheer infrastructure, from the Main Campus to the Library. I wanted to learn more of what had happened in class and I stumbled into the library.

Kautilya Reddy Chappid

It is a wonderful place to study in, open 24/7, with access to all the books I need. Also isolated self-study areas for Individuals and Groups, and it is right in front of the Student Accommodation.

Being an International Student I never felt isolated, as my classmates were

from various parts of the world. This broadened my horizons as I was learning from various perspectives. There was enough time after class for me to not only brush up on what had already happened but also for me to start my own little projects.

The highly experienced Professors and Seniors I met in a hackathon, guided me through my projects with multiple tips and tricks. The STEM building is equipped with multiple Labs, not just limited to PC’s but are also equipped with 3D Printers and Robots, like InMoov.

The various hackathons conducted by the British Computer Society are a great place to socialise with others and also discuss various projects others have been working on.

My interests revolve around 3D Modelling, 3D Printing, Artificial Intelligence, Electronics and Robotics. I joined the University of Bedfordshire in February 2020, studying for a BSc in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics.

Charlie Jessop - BSc Information and Data Systems

I joined the University of Bedfordshire studying part-time as part of an apprenticeship with one of the largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies in the world. Through a variety of lectures and assignments, I am building great knowledge and technical bases, learning various skills and programming languages that open up many opportunities in the data science field. Alongside the technical concepts, the coursework has provided many opportunities to build soft skills which are vital for success in my studies and day-to-day work. I have found the lecturers to be very approachable and are available for support when needed.

Charlie Jessop

My role involves building tools and data visualisations within Unilever’s Safety and Environmental Assurance Centre (SEAC), which looks after over 400 brands worldwide. My work can feed into new systems we are developing or handed directly to the scientists to analyse their data.

To carry out these tasks, I am often required to use popular programming languages and to interact with various data types/structures, which are all concepts that the University has taught me.

My studies at the University have given me a platform to engage in conversations with my colleagues, articulate my ideas and get involved in things that I would not have seen myself doing when I finished sixth form. I cannot wait to enter the final year of my degree to continue my development and apply what I have learned to an exciting new project.

Shehu Aminu (Ashman) Shehu – BSc (Hons) Computer Science and Software Engineering

Shehu Aminu (Ashman) ShehuI am really excited and pleased to be a student at the University of Bedfordshire and am now in Year 2 of my BSC (Hons) Computer Science and Software Engineering studies.

During this time I came to appreciate the value of working and co-operating with my fellow students, listening to and having respect for other people's views and feelings, and developing skills as an independent self-directed learner - as well as maintaining a healthy balance between study and leisure time.

The facilities at the University are excellent and have allowed me to develop both theoretical and practical skills during my first two years of study. The knowledge and practical skills I am gaining are heling me achieve my dream of a career in IT – and, I recognize that they are providing many opportunities for me at the end of my studies.

At the start of my first year, my chosen course BSc (Hons) Computer Science and Software Engineering was a completely new and exciting experience for me and I am really pleased that I chose this path of study. In fact, study during my first and second years proved both really wonderful and amazing because I have achieved so much from my lectures, practicals and seminars.

The practical sessions were supportive to me because they provided an opportunity to implement the knowledge acquired throughout the lectures and seminars. I have gained a lot of experience and ideas as a result of working in group projects. This helped me developed the soft skills needed to be an effective team member.

I know it seems hard sometimes, but remember one thing: through every dark night, there’s a bright day after that. So, no matter how hard it gets, stick your chest out, keep your head up, and handle it.

I found that I had to work harder during my second year through self-study, research in the University's well-equipped and functional digital library - as well as getting support from my teachers and staff who were always there for me whenever I needed help the most. These are the reasons for my success in my second year.

Believe in yourself and don’t let anybody stop you from doing what you have to do to make you happy....

I think we can make it, in fact, I’m sure. If you fall, stand tall and come back for more, but you must keep moving to get to the end.

In my final year, I want to challenge myself even more undertaking the Year 3 Project which will enable me to study and develop my specialism in greater depth.

Thanks to all my teachers and staff for always being there for me and encouraging me, and I appreciate all the effort, support and help you have given to me.

On a final note: If you want to be broad-minded; if you want to receive functional, career-orientated education; if you are an ambitious student and you want to make the sky your limit; if you want to be a balanced intellectual; if you want to be a real productive scientist, engineer or technologist, then, surely, you must opt for University of Bedfordshire.

Arya Elpula – BSc (Hons) Computer Science

Going to university is a choice I will always be proud of and I feel really connected to the community around the campus when it comes to making friends or just gathering together to undertake a project. The BSc I chose to study (BSc HONS in Computer Science) focuses on topics such as data processing, networks, computer software and artificial intelligence where we are allowed to investigate our own topics and create and analyse the results.Arya Elpula

At first programming was not my forte as it was hard for me to focus on it every day especially in first year where coding guidelines and methodologies were different to what I would have expected.

However, after a lot of practice and self believe, thanks to the teachers and staff who have been there for me constantly communicating via email or vis-à-vis and giving regular feedback without any formalities, I became more at ease in this environment and much more confident in myself. I gained and enhanced my transferrable skills which I have come to realise are vital to improving my employability.

During my first and second year of study, whenever we reached a milestone in our projects, I was filled with a sense of success, motivation and sense of completeness, and came to realise there are no limits if you keep pushing yourself.

The second year helped me with decision making as I learnt statistics and maths helping me to thnk in terms of algorithms and data structures such as sorting, searching and graph algorithms. It helped me address how important data is, the philosophy of AI and machine learning as well as biological data computation.

I am glad I will be going into my final year as a university student, and am currently gathering ideas about potential projects as well as networking with potential employers - helping me develop an insight into the IT Industry.

The University of Bedfordshire has been very supportive and patient with my progress, and going back and seeing my friends and teachers will keep me motivated and focused on the work at hand. I could not have excelled without the effort of my colleagues and staff.

If I had the chance to give advice to myself back in first year it would be something subtle like:

Never stop creating goals in your life. It isn’t about the completion of it but the journey to it. You can’t appreciate the good times without the bad ones.

Ionut-Cosmin Theodorescu – Computer Science BSc (With Foundation Year)

I always dreamed of studying abroad, interacting with people from different parts of the world and working together towards a common goal.

Ionut-Cosmin Theodorescu

I found the Foundation Year extremely useful as it introduces you into the University study core, thanks to the teachers who have a unique passion for teaching. I felt supported all the time.

The decisive year for me was the 2nd year for I was to interact with the Careers and Employability Service as it was recommended by one of the lectures. Also, in that year I was encouraged by Careers and Employability Service to attend an Employability Unit, I opted for a Spanish Class which was held by the University of Bedfordshire. Adding another foreign language to the CV is always a big plus.

The University of Bedfordshire gave me the confidence to fulfil my dream and to secure my future.

The Careers and Employability Service did a phenomenal job at guiding and preparing me for the future interviews. With what I have learned in the past years I have managed to combine the soft skills and the knowledge that I have achieved up to now, in order to secure a Placement Year Position thanks to the University of Bedfordshire and to the teachers who have inspired me.

Next year I am looking forward to expanding my skills and to achieve even greater goals, this could not be possible without the help of the teaching team that have done a great job of pointing us with wisdom towards our goal. Thanks to them and to the University of Bedfordshire our future is secured.

Solange Yehouenou - BSc Computer Science and Software Engineering

Solange Yehouenou

When I decided to go back to school, I was determined but I was scared too. Being a mum had a lot to do with my fears.

I wasn't sure if I could make it all the way to the end. But here I am now, having just passed all the units of my second year and on my way to my final year.

I tell you this now, it has been an amazing experience. At first, it was overwhelming especially with the coding and all the different programming languages.

Many times, I felt panicky and left behind, but then the group assignments were launched and together with other students I started feeling like I was part of something wonderful. We shared our knowledge, research our subjects, but also shared our moments of panic and victories.

I believe that when you want it bad enough, then you realize that your wings already exist; All you have to do is FLY..

My second year was more focused because I knew what to expect. The lessons were designed as presentation slides and easy to follow; the practical sessions allowed us to ask questions and get help from our teachers. There were regular breaks every few hours and students can meet up for a cup of tea or coffee to exchange views or have a laugh etc...

I want to thank all my teachers and university staff who were always ready to guide, encourage, help and inform me whenever I needed it. Without you, it wouldn’t have been possible to get this far. God bless you all.

I am very excited at the thought of starting my final year. I know how challenging this is going to be. I am gathering ideas about potential projects that I’m going to work on and above all, I can't wait to get back to the bubbly, multicultural environment of the Bedfordshire University and see all my friends and teachers again.

Joshua Peach - FdSc Construction Management

I have really enjoyed the course so far, I have found as the course has developed my on site knowledge the two have merged into one and now I am working hand in hand with what I study on the course with what I deal with on site on a daily basis.

The course so far has given me a much wider perspective of construction as a whole, rather then just day to day site management. Something I believe can only lead me in good stead moving forward in the industry.

I am looking forward to moving on to the 'top up' and further developing knowledge on different areas of the sector. As the course will be in the fourth year I feel I am best place to balance my work and University work, work load something I have at times found hard.

Finally, I am extremely looking forward to getting stuck into my dissertation and reviewing areas of construction I feel strongly about.

Arsalan Naveed - Computer Science and Software Engineering (with Foundation Year)

Arsalan Naveed

I feel lucky to be part of Bedfordshire University, it's not just University but it’s a home with multicultural. I have learnt a lot in the past two years and I’m very excited for my final year.

I am very thankful for the teachers and staff who helped me a lot with everything that I needed. They are always available to support and keep me motivated towards the future by introducing not just me but everyone at University with potential employers for our future career.

Through my experience at University with projects and assignments, I would say:

Set a goal and go for it, never change the goal but be flexible with the approach.

Lionel Jayaraj - PhD Student 2020

Lionel Jayaraj

Lionel Jayaraj joined the School of Computer Science and Technology in 2014 initially on a Post Graduate taught course, but has since achieved an MSc by Research and developed his research in the area of

Immersion in Virtual Reality for sports (a cricket game) by integrating novel tracking and performance capture techniques.

Lionel Jayaraj from the Institute for Research in Applicable Computing, within the School for Computer Science and Technology, has successfully defended his thesis by PhD Viva.

Following a detailed examination, Lionel gave a robust defence of his thesis and was recommended as a pass, subject to corrections to be completed.

Lionel's supervisory team are: Dr Jim Wood, (Directory of Studies) and Dr Marcia Gibson

Thank you for the overwhelming support, encouragement, and your precious time. I hadn't dreamt of a PhD when I entered the University in 2014 holding a B.Tech graduation. I would recommend my supervisory team to encourage and produce more PhD students and I am happy to be their first student. Their support, the University's resources, and staff's friendship have made it feel like a piece of cake.

Justyna Kurczaba - Student Computer Science BSc

Justyna Kurczaba

My name is Justyna Kurczaba and I study Computer Science BSc at the University of Bedfordshire.

Prior to starting my journey I never had any experience in computing. Therefore I am overwhelmed with the progress I was able to make during the recent months of my education.

Learning to program felt intimidating at the beginning of the last academic year. I was not feeling confident when tutors were passing by and looking at my code. However, after a lot of practice and determination I was able to produce a satisfying piece of code. This was one of the most memorable and empowering moments of my life. It was also a milestone to my current, small success. Suddenly, I felt this indescribable motivation to become my own teacher. Weekly worksheets uploaded by course coordinators provided me with enough information to create my own independent projects. Also group projects were also incredibly beneficial to my improvement. Not only did I exchanged my knowledge and skills with other team mates but also I discovered how important communication is.

In this University you are not just a student but you will feel you are part of a big family.

Moreover, I was challenged to go out of my comfort zone and I had to seek assistance from tutors which was a bit daunting for me. However, they approached me with patience and understanding which encouraged me to further develop my skills. Even though lectures and practical sessions were held only three times a week I was able to find an abundance of supporting materials in the library which was more than sufficient while learning on my own.

I am incredibly grateful to be presented with an opportunity to study at the University of Bedfordshire where I met inspiring people who contributed to my growth.

Justyna 26, has also been rewarded for commitment to her studies with the BCS (The Chartered Institute of IT) Bedford Branch Student Prize which is given every year to the highest performing first year computing student in the University’s School of Computer Science and Technology.

Justyna had no experience of computing until she came to the University, but in her first year she excelled in her studies to become the highest performing student in her cohort achieving the highest possible grades for all subjects.

Justyna’s prize includes automatic membership of the BCS for the remainder of her studies and a £150 cash prize. Her certificate was presented by the Chair of the BCS Bedford Branch Dr Ip-Shing Fan from Cranfield University.

It is great to see such dedication and hard work, and is great that we can reward it through the kind sponsorship of BCS.

Nusrat Hoque - Student Science and Software Engineering BSc

Nusrat Hoque

Additional Learning Outcomes:

  • How to work in a team
  • How to manage self-studies at home
  • How to manage exam anxiety and how to believe in myself
  • As an EU student I improved my English communication by spending time with my classmates and staff.
  • How to be responsible.

Teachers and Supportive staff:

  • Staff are always available to help students with any issues.
  • Teachers and staff are reachable with an appointment or via email.
  • Teachers provide you with all the materials that you need to prepare your exams.
  • Every single unit is divided into lectures and practical classes. Practical classes provide you with all the materials that you need e.g. Computers, software and learning materials.
  • Peer Assisted Learning (PAL) sessions. I think this is one of the best teaching methods because this session is between students. Students can attend this session for different kinds of help. It is one of the best methods to learn something that someone did not understand.
  • Staff prepare you for your career from the first year with different events or meeting people who have experience or graduates from our University.

Why the University of Bedfordshire?

  • This University provides you everything that you need while you are studying.
  • There are various accommodation, which are easily reachable on foot.
  • It has a library which is open 24/7, you can find a various books that you need for your course. Computers are available when you need them for your work. There is also a well-equipped IT Suite. Also various work spaces are available to use your own laptop.
  • There is an international office where you can talk freely with staff, also a Student Information Desk (SID) to assist with any student related concerns or issues.
  • There are allocated places to eat and spend time with friends.
  • The Tree House, it is a lovely place where you can go and relax, you can have your cup of tea and talk with different students.

Faisal Hoque - 2nd Year Computer Science Student

Faisal Hoque

After successfully passing my first year; during the summer holidays I was encouraged by a certain staff member to help fellow students who started Year 1 in February. I was reluctant at first due to my lack of confidence. However, it was a wonderful opportunity to improve this aspect of myself, so I decided to help the February students out whenever I could. This alone empowered me so much to continue improving my confidence and soft skills, that I decided to also help my fellow students who were working on referral assignments.

I was also encouraged to join the University of Bedfordshire BCS Student Chapter (also called Beds Computing SU Society) and to help run it during my Year 2 studies. I initially took the position of Vice-Chairman while a friend took the role of Chairman but after a month or so of running a few events I eventually took over the role of Chairman.

The skills I’ve learnt and opportunities I’ve gained since first joining the University in 2016, would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the extraordinary teaching staff within the CST School. My personal view from what I’ve experienced and heard from other students; a university is only as good as the students who make the most of it. There are so many opportunities and advantages available at the University of Bedfordshire, and it’s about engaging and seeking those opportunities for yourself

Dorcas Sunday - BSc Computer Security and Forensics

Dorcas Sunday

I must say, I am blessed to be a student at the University of Bedfordshire. In University of Bedfordshire there are lots to achieve not just studying alone. It is a home for international student (it is warm and friendly).

Any course you choose, there is an equipment to help improve your skills and knowledge.

The environment is conductive for learning, and the great facilities includes 24/7 library, gym, laboratories, etc.

There is a good online student information desk, where students can make enquires/complain and get quick response immediately. Studying here at the University of Bedfordshire gives me a better edge among my peers and great opportunity in the future (Job opportunity).

Kudos to all the staff for your massive support and teaching, you are superb and amazing. Without you, my success story is incomplete, you all deserve some accolades.

telephone

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