Praise Uadiale

"The mix of theoretical learning and practical assignments helped me develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a strong understanding of industry practices."

I chose to study at Essex because I had a few family members and friends who had already attended, and their feedback was overwhelmingly positive. They spoke highly of the university's supportive environment, excellent academic resources, and vibrant student life. Hearing about their great experiences made my decision much easier, as I knew I'd be joining a community that values both education and personal growth.

I really enjoyed the balance between theory and practical application throughout my degree. The combination of in-depth theoretical learning and hands-on take-home assignments made the concepts more tangible and industry-relevant. These practical tasks helped bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application. One of the highlights was the capstone project, which provided a great opportunity to showcase everything I had learned. The flexibility of the project allowed me to tailor it to my interests and strengths. It was a perfect way to consolidate my skills and apply them to a real-world scenario.

What I enjoyed most about Essex was the perfect balance between vibrancy and peace. The university offered a lively and diverse atmosphere with plenty of social events, societies, and activities, making it easy to unwind and connect with others. At the same time, there were plenty of quiet spaces, whether in the library or around campus, that provided the ideal environment to focus and work hard when needed. This balance made it easy to switch between study and relaxation, allowing me to fully engage with my academics while also enjoying everything university life had to offer. It created a well-rounded experience that supported both personal and academic growth.

My advice to new students would be to explore all your interests - you'd be amazed at what you learn about yourself along the way. University is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and discover passions you never knew you had. Engage with your modules beyond just lectures - attend department events, workshops, and networking opportunities. These not only deepen your understanding but also help you build valuable connections. The more you put yourself out there, the more rewarding your university experience will be, both academically and personally.

I've joined JP Morgan as a Software Engineer and I have been fortunate enough to work on delivering Digital Banking and Investment products for the Chase UK brand. I did a placement year at the firm and was asked to return post-graduation.

I'd say actively seek the opportunities; if they happen to be few, create your own projects. Every step along the way you'd learn what you need for the next step.

Honestly, when I first applied for my degree, I wasn't thinking too much about the exact job I'd end up in. I was more focused on gaining knowledge and developing skills. But in hindsight, my degree provided me with most of what I needed to get started in the industry, regardless of the specific domain.

My time at Essex definitely prepared me for the workplace, largely due to the structure of the course. The mix of theoretical learning and practical assignments helped me develop problem-solving skills, adaptability, and a strong understanding of industry practices. The careers centre was also really helpful, constantly reminding us to think about the future - whether through career workshops, CV guidance, or networking opportunities. Their support kept me proactive in planning my next steps. During my studies, I completed a placement at JP Morgan and later did an internship at American Express. Both experiences gave me valuable industry exposure, allowing me to apply what I had learned in real-world settings and build professional connections.