Edwin
"What made Huddersfield different compared to many other universities was that there were less written exams to sit and more focus on a ‘learn by doing’ approach through practical sessions."
Why I chose to study Computer Science with Games Programming
I had a passion for learning Games Programming and I was amazed by games programmers around the world; plus I loved playing console and retro games when I was younger.
Before starting the course, I had started learning with Pygame to understand how the game loop works. With Pygame, I worked on retro-based games such as Pong and Aim Trainer, which was interesting, and I also practiced concepts such as collisions.
Studying Computer Science with Games Programming was my chance to delve further into Games Programming and advance my skills.
"I made Huddersfield my firm choice since it was one of the universities which offers a broad range of specialisms within Computer Science, compared to many other universities that are more restrictive and focused on studying Computer Science at its core."
Attending a Computer Science Applicant Visit Day
Before I enrolled at the University, I attended an Applicant Visit Day. The day began with a talk conducted by the Head of the Department, who spoke about what Computer Science is. This was followed by a talk from one of the Course Leaders about the course itself and its specialisms, such as games programming, artificial intelligence, software engineering and cyber security.
There was also a talk on the placement programme, which was interesting as I was potentially interested in doing a placement. We were also taken into a practical robotic session, which was written with Microbit and the McQueen Robot, which was fun and interesting.
"When I attended an Applicant Visit Day, I was surrounded by a diverse range of students of different age groups."
Specialist computing facilities
There are lots of great facilities within the School of Computing and Engineering. This includes computer labs which have specific IDEs and game engines installed. Most of the labs on the fifth floor of the Spark Jones building are like this, with most Computers set up with gaming PCs with RGB keyboard formats. This is useful for programming games and working with game engines and advanced programming.
There are various facilities and areas around the University Campus too, where I can study and relax, such as the Library, Spark Jones and the Haslett Building, which I find great for eating and working in.
Accessing disability support
Before enrolling at the University, it was recommended to me to apply for support from the Disability Services team. As part of this, I had a phone call appointment with one of the Disability Advisors about the support available at the University, as well as the opportunity to attend an autism induction event, where I met the other advisors and students; one of them was on the same course as me too.
Within the first three weeks of starting my course, I had different support workers who I interacted well with, and they helped guide me to my classes and supported with my practical class sessions too.
Other support in place for me is the use of extra time for exams and attending a social Autism Lunch Club. The Autism Lunch Club is a fun place to go to interact with students who are also diagnosed with autism. There are also two societies for disabled students, which have been interesting to attend.
"There is tremendous support for students with disabilities, based on their needs."
Why I'd recommend Disability Services
I’d recommend the Disability Services to students with disabilities as I think it’s beneficial for students to interact with one another, not only as network, but as friends too. As well as providing support for students with disabilities, there are also societies that students are able to attend to mingle and interact with other students with disabilities.
There’s student accommodation nearby to campus where students are able to stay and socialise with other students.
Activities outside my course
There are various activities that I have taken part in outside of my studies at the University. I’ve joined societies such as badminton, BSL, darts, frag gaming and chess, where I’ve been able to interact with students based on common interests.
I’ve also attended on-campus events such as a Hackathon, organised by the Computer Science department, and social events organised by the Students' Union. Some of the most interesting events I’ve been involved with are jam night sessions, where I’ve been able to play the drums with other musicians. It was fun to interact and improvise with other students who have a passion for music and entertain others through our performances.
I also work as a Student Ambassador. This is a paid role, which has allowed me to work on jobs such as providing campus tours to prospective students, taking part in marketing photoshoots and blogging for the University website.
What I like about Huddersfield
The campus is beautiful and clean, which makes it a good place to walk around with friends or by myself. In my spare time, I have taken various photos of the campus. One of my favourite places on campus is the canal, it’s a beautiful spot with excellent views for sight-seeing and taking photos.
I’d definitely recommend the University of Huddersfield to prospective students. The University is located in a good town for sightseeing and attractions, and has some great societies for students to join to have fun and make friends.
