Henry McAuliffe

Why did you apply to the University of Bradford?

I first came to Bradford with my brother for the computer science course. It wasn’t anything hugely flashy or trying too hard but I saw that when the academic staff spoke, it felt like they had a sense of what they were talking about and that they do really care for their students. So, I essentially chose to join on the spot!

The city offered everything I needed, and it is very easy to get around. The nightlife wasn’t the best, but it was very easy to go places on transport (trains etc). I believe that some of the best times while at university was when I was grouped with lots of people for a large period. This includes living with many people, as well as joining clubs, in my case it was boxing, and even being in a course with many people because it’s always given me a chance to really get to know some of the people and have a really good time with them.

Why did you choose that particular course?  What did you like and enjoy most about the course?

I have been studying computer science since I was in year 10. It’s always been an interest of mine, given I grew up with computers, etc. What I enjoyed most about the course was that all the academic staff were always open for discussion about the course and will offer help when needed.

What tips would you give to prospective students about the course at the University of Bradford and the university itself?

I would personally tell students to join clubs, really get into new experiences within the university. That also includes new things to do with the courses as well.

What support have you received from Career and Employability Services / Placement Staff?

I have received a lot of help from the Academic Placement Tutor and Career and Employability Services with help on my CV, covering letter and even how and when to apply. They do help when you ask and are very responsive.

What action are you taking to improve your employability whilst at University?

Besides going on industrial placement, I am also widening my skills and experiences by taking part-time work, participating in clubs and learning new programming languages.

What advice would you give to your fellow students about finding placement and work experience opportunities?

Be as ‘pushy’ as possible, email every week if you have to, in order to get a definite answer, because by the time one considers an application, you can be using that time to apply to more and possibly better placement opportunities.

Tell us about your current placement...

In my current placement as a Software Intern (starting 15^th September), I will be working with audio product electronics development, python scripting, Software development and working with schematics and automation design tools.

How will the placement year benefit you when you return to study at the University of Bradford?

This placement will help me with my study as I will have a clear grasp on how to produce professional-level code and documentation. All of my working skills will be developed which I can use for working with people and visualising and deconstructing problems in order to solve them.