Zulekha Mahmood

Why did you apply to the University and why did you choose that course?

The University of Bradford was a natural choice after experiencing working in their enriching and inclusive environment through my successful completion of a Nuffield Research Placement (prior to joining university). The opportunity to work with Professor Hassan Ugail at the University in artificial intelligence and machine learning was greatly beneficial and the support I received was outstanding. I felt empowered to understand and navigate the digital world we live in, so chose to study Computer Science. I was certain it would support my future endeavours in the technology industry.

What steps did you take to improve your employability whilst at university [and/or after you graduated?]

I was really determined to attain practical experience alongside my studies to further my understanding on how to apply theoretical knowledge within a real-life discipline. Therefore, I undertook part-time roles at the University of Bradford such as an Assistant Researcher, continuing my efforts in artificial intelligence and machine learning and as a Demonstrator for the Database Systems Module.
I also undertook a full-time industrial placement as an Associate Solutions Architect at HMRC, which progressed into a part-time position whilst studying in my final year. These opportunities allowed me to build on my skillset such as time management and confidence.

How did Career and Employability Services support you during your time at university?

The support was great from the Career and Employability Services (CES) throughout university. The resources were effective and useful such as the CV and Cover Letter guidelines/templates especially during my applications for industrial placement positions.
In our final year, Faculty Careers Staff, contacted all final year students individually to discuss ‘options after university’ and then continue to offer help and support needed for the options chosen.
It was also reassuring knowing that there are a variety of workshops/webinars and one-to-one appointments held where I could receive interview support and relevant feedback if needed.

Tell us about your current job and what makes you successful in securing the job?

Following on from graduation, I will be going on to work as a Data Engineer at HMRC. This is a very exciting opportunity for me to understand the world of data including aspects such as virtualisation and warehousing.
I believe my previous experience of working at HMRC was hugely advantageous in securing this role along with all the skills and knowledge I have developed throughout my university degree.

What advice would you give to current students wishing to enter this type of career/sector?

• Put the hard work in from the beginning, it definitely pays off!  
• Know your goals at the offset and understand what it is that you want to achieve and begin to work a realistic plan to achieve these.  Utilise the support you have around you, be that your lecturers or your peers too. 
• I would also advise to pursue opportunities outside of university in the world of work to allow yourself to attain commercial awareness.