Taking a break from a steady job was a big decision for me. Studying abroad was a dream of mine for long. I started browsing websites and brochures and came across the M.Sc. Data Science course at the University of Sheffield. It appealed to me, and I felt that the course contents and structure was exactly what I was looking for. So I finally decided to take the plunge.
MEET AND GREETThe university organises a meet and greet programme for incoming students. At the airport, the student representatives from Sheffield were waiting, and I had no trouble spotting the smiling faces in orange T-shirts. We then hopped on to a bus to Sheffield. The route to Sheffield was beautiful; I was awe-struck by the scenic beauty. Once at the university, moving into the student accommodation was effortless, it was systematic and everything was planned out, I had no trouble settling in.
During the intro week, the professors introduced us to the modules and how the course would run; a brief introduction was given to the programme structure. Sitting in the large auditorium, I couldn’t wait to start. The style and method of teaching at the University of Sheffield is a little different from what I was used to in India, but I think it has only added to my education and has given me a greater exposure to the concepts. There is plenty of support from the professors and other student bodies that are always available for any help. The state-of-the-art, 24/7 libraries offer a wide variety of books and journals to support students. No matter what the time is, you can always find students studying at the library.
RELEVANT MODULESThe course modules touch upon topics that are very relevant to the global business environment today. The programme explores the functionality of the various aspects of data science and has introduced me to new facets of the subject. The coursework and assignments make me think and develop an understanding of the subjects being taught.
There are many interesting seminars and talks organised by the university. The university often invites thought leaders in the industry to speak, and it is quite exciting to listen to them. It has been a great learning experience for me.
Sheffield is a charming city, and is the greenest city in the U.K. There is always a lovely park at a short walk, no matter where you are. The mesmerising Peak District, one of the national parks in the U.K. is very close-by, at a half-hour distance. A must visit!
As the city hosts one of the largest universities in the country, it has a very young and buzzing vibe. You get to meet people from different countries and cultures. Interacting with such a diverse crowd is an enriching experience. There are a variety of societies and events being planned by the student union, and you will always find things to do no matter what your interests are. The people here are very welcoming and helpful. The friendliness of the people here is so heartwarming, especially when one is miles away from home. And of course once you are here, you cannot escape tasting the prized Henderson’s relish. It is easy to navigate around the city; the buses and the tramlines are convenient and can get you around the city to wherever you want to go.
Overall, this has been an unforgettable experience and I’m enjoying every minute of it. Not only academically, this experience has enriched me personally as well. While I’m here, I’m looking forward to more adventures to come.
The writer is studying for her M.Sc. in Data Science at the University of Sheffield.
