Ifeoluwa Ojewande
MSc Applied Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics
Why did you apply to the University and why did you choose that course?
I wanted to pivot into Data Analytics and Machine Learning and I realised that the most efficient way to do this is to get a Master’s degree in the discipline. I was referred to the University of Bradford’s Applied Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics program by an education consultant and friend; I researched the course modules and then decided to apply to the university.
How did you find and secure your placement?
We had an employment and placement services adviser (Helen) that shared about four or five placement opportunities with their roles and job description\requirements with Bradford Institute for health research. We were implored to apply to the projects that we would love to work on and I applied as an intern to work on the Visualisation and Reporting Platform projects. I had an interview for the role and then I secured the placement position.
Tell us about your placement (Role and responsibilities)
I was an intern in the Data Research and Development department of Born In Bradford, the team is in charge of providing usable data and application development for the whole organisation, so we work across various projects. The main project for my placement was the research and development of a data visualisation and reporting platform for the organisation, I started the project by first gathering the requirements for the application from different stakeholders, then I carried out options appraisals for the suitable open source technologies that meets most of the stakeholders requirements and then started testing these applications by analysing Data and creating Visualisation Dashboards on the applications. Before the end of my placement, we had already settled down on an application that satisfied the stakeholders’ requirements and I also had the opportunity to work on other projects.
There is no downside to taking on a placement, you are exposed to a typical work environment, pick up new skills and use the knowledge you already have on real projects.
Was it a worthwhile experience? If so, how? What have you learnt?
Yes, It was a worthwhile experience, I had the opportunity to perform different data analysis on various applications and platforms and I got to improve my analytics skills, testing using different user stories and different programming languages and techniques. I got to work on real life researches and programs and got the experience working in a UK based fast paced work environment, all team members were always eager to offer their help and guidance.
What are your future plans now that you have completed your course?
There was a vacancy in the department for a Software developer position and I applied to it on the conclusion of my placement and I have been working as a Software developer since then. I am developing my stack to become a senior Full-stack Software and Data Engineer in the future.
What advice would you give to future students thinking about doing a placement?
I would advise them to do it, there is no downside to taking on a placement, you get the opportunity to learn while working, and you get the full support of team members and work with less pressure. So you are exposed to a typical work environment, pick up new skills and use the knowledge you already have on real projects.