Jesse Ugwu

I was inspired to study this course because I have always wanted to see how data could help increase the productivity of industries, especially the food and logistics sector considering the increasing population of the world. This inspiration led me to make comprehensive research on the best course to study which can combine data science knowledge and artificial intelligence technology in providing realistic solution to industrial challenges. I researched the best country and institution that would give me the opportunity to study and apply my knowledge to real world solutions. Edge Hill University was my top preference judging from the testimonies and recommendations from previous students, especially those actively practicing in the data science and artificial intelligence field.

The most memorable moment of my degree was when I worked as a team with some of my classmates to solve a data analysis problem. The joy derived from seeing our result and solution accepted and applied to the company increased my confidence level. This project was facilitated by one of my lecturers to increase our knowledge and development of our analytical skills for industrial applications. My favourite thing about my degree is the blending of tutorial and practical in the studies. The practical assessments have expanded my knowledge and increased my research skills, helping me to apply my knowledge to developing a realistic solution application for the food production sector. My project involved the development of a mobile app which identifies potential food diseases from a phone image. The project focused on watermelons in particular, with the aim of helping low resource agricultural environments track their watermelon production in terms of disease management. The future steps for my project would be to work on the accuracy of the model and the AI system, and then expand it to other fruits and vegetables.

My course aligns with industrial standards, and I have learnt from the best university lecturers who have both academic and industrial experience in the field. I have developed multiple skills during my studies at Edge Hill University, including project management, computer vision model development and deployment and programming and analytical skills. The institution provided a careers department to prepare for life after studies. They provide advice and graduate job preparation, as well as academic advice. I also appreciated the regular feedback from my lecturers, showing me how I can improve on my work. On graduation, I hope to work with a team of developers in a software development company, where I will be able to apply all the knowledge and skills achieved so far in creating solutions to industrial challenges, especially food and logistics companies.

My favourite place on campus is the tech hub. I feel comfortable and energised whenever I am programming and developing a solution software with one of the powerful computer systems located in the department. I also appreciate Edge Hill University’s serene environment with fresh air. This helps me to wind down and relax.

My advice to someone who wants to study data science and artificial intelligence is to have enthusiasm and interest in applying the acquired knowledge in developing solutions. This will act as a motivation for excellence in the field. The University has everything you need to boost your career. You only need to enter the vehicle, and you will get to your destination.