Alexandru Picotici
Alexandru is currently studying an MSc in Computer Science (Conversion).
Why did you choose to study your programme at Queen Mary and why Queen Mary?
I chose to study at Queen Mary University because it offered the perfect opportunity to transition from my background in the arts to pursuing Computer Science at Master’s level and following my interest in a tech career. I had known about Queen Mary for a few years and was impressed by the high quality of teaching and its status as a Russell Group university. It quickly became clear that applying here was the right choice for me.
What is your favourite thing about Queen Mary?
My favourite thing about Queen Mary is the sense of community and support. Even coming from a different academic background, I’ve felt welcomed and encouraged to explore new subjects, met people from all over the world, and grown both academically and personally. I also love the campus and the surrounding area because it is a vibrant part of London that adds to the student experience.
Which modules do you most enjoy and were there any academics that have a strong influence on shaping your time and studies here?
My favourite module so far has been Computer Programming, because it taught me a solid foundation in using programming languages from scratch. I’ve also enjoyed Computer Architecture and Networks, taught by Dr Chris Phillips, because it helped me understand how computers work at a deeper level. I especially appreciated his quality of teaching, which made the learning process easier and more engaging. I am very excited about the subjects we will be studying in the next semester, especially Interactive System Design.
Are you a member of any societies or attend any industry events during your time at Queen Mary? If so which and what do you gain from them?
I am a member of the QM Catholic Society, where I attended weekly events throughout the first semester. Being part of this society has helped me meet students from around the world who share my values and interests, and it has made my overall experience at university more enjoyable. I have also attended career fairs, which were really helpful for learning about opportunities in the tech industry by speaking with employers and thinking about my future career.
What kind of careers/employability support do you get during your studies?
From the beginning of my studies, I have received ongoing support from the university. I attended a careers fair that gave me the opportunity to discuss opportunities in tech with employers who guided me on the application process. Back in September, we also had a part-time job fair that helped connect students with work opportunities. There are CV and LinkedIn workshops to help students become application-ready, and occasionally, there are events where well-known companies come to give talks and share insights. The university also organises hackathons, which are a great way for students to apply their skills in practical projects and gain experience in a collaborative environment.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to start a career as a Junior Software Engineer and gain more experience in the industry. I’ve discovered that I really enjoy learning new things about computers, which makes me consider the possibility of pursuing a PhD in the future.
What's one piece of advice you'd offer to someone considering studying Computer Science at Queen Mary?
I would encourage anyone considering a transition into Computer Science, like I did, to look at the course content and see if it is something they see themselves doing. You don’t need prior coding experience, but having some understanding of programming concepts ahead of the starting date can make the learning process easier, as it did for me.