Niamh originally aspired to become a fashion designer, however, due to her analytical and problem-solving skills, maths quickly became her favourite subject at school. She knew she wanted to further her knowledge of the subject at university.
How did you make the decision to study at Strathclyde?
Even before I knew what direction I wanted to take my future, I always believed I would go to university. As I got older and started to research courses and different universities, Strathclyde was always my number one choice. I believe this was due to the more modern campus, as well as the great reputation of the University, and the Mathematics & Statistics department. I knew I would fit in here and being right in the centre of Glasgow made it super easy to travel to.
What did you like about your course and Strathclyde?
I first began my degree as a joint Mathematics and Computing Science course, but as I slowly started learning more about statistics, I decided to swap my course to Mathematics and Statistics, which was very easy to do. One thing I loved about my course was the number of options for classes alongside the fundamental maths modules. I could choose classes in statistics, mechanics, and computing, which allowed me to try out different topics and see what I might enjoy most in a future career.
Unfortunately, my four years at Strathclyde were interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, however, this didn’t prevent me from having the full university experience. The amazing Department made it as easy as they could for us to continue our studies, as well as having some fun. The online resources they created were so helpful for learning but also for studying later in the semester, and are something I continued to use even when lectures were no longer online.
What specialist knowledge/professional skills did you develop whilst studying the course?
Before attending the University of Strathclyde for my course, I already had a good level of knowledge in the subject of mathematics, but I had never been given the chance to learn anything more than the basics of statistics and computer science. Strathclyde made it easy to not only learn these subjects quickly but also develop and turn my basic knowledge into a specialist understanding of the topics. I had never before studied any computing languages or used any computer programmes until I started university, and now I hope to further my knowledge in a statistics-based career in data analysis.
What are your ambitions for the future and how do you think your time at Strathclyde will help you achieve your goals?
My lifelong dream was always to travel, so in celebration of completing 17 years of education, I am currently working in jobs around the world. I started my travel journey working at a summer camp in America for 3 months, and I am now working as an Assistant Manager at Whistler ski resort, in Canada. I know I have at least another year of travel in me before settling down, but due to the nature of my degree, I know I will be able to find my ideal career when I’m ready to make that next step. At the moment, I would love to work towards a career in data analysis, but luckily there are many more opportunities and careers available for a degree like mine, so only time will tell what path I will take.
What's your favourite thing about Glasgow?
Glasgow always feels like home, especially as my family home is only 30 minutes away. I love that I was able to study at such a great University, filled with friendly people, and I was only a quick walk away from the city centre. I feel proud to say that I was able to obtain my degree in a university so close to home when so many people travel from all around the world to do the same.
What would you say to anyone thinking of coming to study at Strathclyde?
Strathclyde is a fun and friendly university, suitable for all ages, cultures and personalities. It’s a great place to meet others, whilst achieving a specialist degree in many different areas. I know the people I met at Strathclyde will always be very important to me, as well as the University, and I will always be proud to say I am a graduate from the University of Strathclyde
