Current employer: University of Plymouth
Current job title: Lecturer in Information Systems
Current location: Plymouth
“IT is such an exciting area because it moves so rapidly and has so many opportunities.”
Tell us about your career path since graduation.
I graduated in 2004, and then went on to do a PGCE in post-16. After that, I then did a Doctor of Education (distance learning with the University of Sheffield) whilst working part-time as a lecturer at the University of Plymouth. Since 2012, I have been a permanent member of staff in the School of Computing, Electronics, and Mathematics, and I recently became a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
Has your career path changed since graduation?
Yes, because after graduating from my computing degree I carried on with my studies in education, and it has been interesting to do them both within an academic context. My plan was to go into the industry straight away after my graduation, but teaching was a new pathway for me thanks to the advice my lecturers gave me.
What is the most difficult thing which you have faced in your career?
Being in a male-dominated environment has been difficult, especially coming from a culture where the career orientated woman is frowned upon. Nevertheless, I used it as a challenge and I am fighting to raise awareness of women’s rights.
What is the best, most exciting or fun thing that you have done in your career?
Following my dreams and aspirations; leading and hosting a Guinness World Record attempt in programming, which was the most stressful but also the most enjoyable moment in my career so far; and also being shortlisted for the WISE awards twice which was a very rewarding time in my career.
What advice would you give to anyone wanting to get into the same line of work?
IT is such an exciting area because it moves so rapidly and has so many opportunities. It doesn’t matter if you’re a woman or a man: we all do computational thinking, and all in our own unique ways.
How did studying at Plymouth help you?
Moving abroad all by myself was a great experience; living in a city which was so friendly, where the campus is at the heart of the city, made my transition and move here seem very easy.
Would you recommend undertaking a course with the University of Plymouth, and why?
Certainly. The University has transformed so much since 2000 and it is becoming very modern and very up-to-date with all the latest technologies.
For more information about our range of courses within the School of Engineering, Computing and Mathematics, please visit the school page.
If you would like to find out what other relevant alumni from the Faculty of Science and Engineering are currently doing, please visit the computing mathematical sciences interest area.
