Mathematics & Statistics (BSc Hons)Xiangfei Lv

Hello! I am a graduate of the BSc Hons Mathematics & Statistics from Strathclyde and South China Agricultural University.

During my studies, I learned about Probability and Mathematical Statistics, Linear Algebra, Calculus, Analytic Geometry and Matlab, SPSS, The R Programming Language, Statistical Computing. In addition to professional learning, I always pay attention to improving my English. Through my self-study, I passed the IELTS test and learned how to use Excel, PowerPoint and other Microsoft Office applications.

Why did you choose to study at Strathclyde?

It was a great pleasure for me to be admitted to the South China Agricultural University, which gave me the opportunity to study abroad. I decided to study at Strathclyde because I recognised the university’s excellent teaching in the subjects of statistics and mathematics and the teachers who have contributed to the area of statistics. The statistical software was also available for us to use and could be accessed easily.

What do you think about the University?

Strathclyde provides high-quality learning resources and a good social environment. The high-quality learning resources include professional software that can be downloaded for free. Teachers will show you how to use the software, so that you can really understand how professional knowledge is applied to practice.

In terms of the social environment, I have to say that I really like the library and gym. I spend almost 10 hours in these places every day, since the atmosphere of study and fitness is very strong. And it makes my life more fulfilling and meaningful.

I also participate in many student clubs. For instance, last year I joined a dance club. I am also keen on sports, like skateboarding and skiing. I like new things, and being energetic and creative.

Why did you choose to study Mathematics & Statistics?

The reason why I chose statistics as my major is that I really love it and I have been working hard since I entered the university. Statistics has good prospects for development, and I also know that countries globally  attach importance to statistics. Therefore, I wanted to study in the UK, hoping to learn knowledge that I could not learn in China.

What do you like most about your course?

What I like most about the BSc Hons Mathematics & Statistics is the structure of course content, it is rich and challenging. For example, it includes lecture notes, reading bibliography, video teaching, quizzes, assignments and projects. The teaching plan is very clear, which can let me prepare for study in each semester. The teaching explanations are good and help ease all my doubts.

I now have a deeper understanding of statistics. Once I was very confused and couldn't understand the meaning of some sections of the textbook but when I began to further study the application of professional software, I understood how to apply it and was deeply interested. I am fascinated by constructing something concrete with abstract numbers, such as a mathematical model. It seems that everything in the world is made up of numbers. By constructing a model, I can simulate and predict so many things in the future.

What would you say to anyone considering coming to study at Strathclyde?

Attending Strathclyde is a great benefit for your studies. At the same time, it also gives you an opportunity to improve your character, because you will learn deeper and richer knowledge. In the process of learning, you will become more independent and self-disciplined.