Dilek Selin - Why I chose herts
Why I Chose Herts
Originally studying at Herts wasn't my primary choice, although when I opened my UCAS application and saw my results I was overwhelmed with excitement and I immediately discussed with my family that I wanted to confirm my place at the university, my family were supportive and my dad even drove us to the uni and we explored the campus and spoke with current students about their experience, after hearing and seeing a welcoming and warm atmosphere I wanted to confirm my place on my UCAS application. I had also attended one of the applicant days held by the computer science department. During the applicant day, I spoke with a senior lecturer and also my professor for one of my final year modules as well as a Student Ambassador, she used to be a student at the university so together they both provided me with knowledge on the computer science course and its layout, how it would be assessed. After speaking with them I felt reassured and confident. The University is spread out across two campuses; the second campus is just a 15-minute walk away alternatively a free shuttle bus can take you there in five minutes. There are several activities and events held across the two sites. For example, on our de Havilland campus, there are opportunities to take part in leisurely activities for free.
We have sports available through the university’s active students’ program, active students are free sports sessions for the students, they have a rotating timetable that can be found online, and you just turn up and play!! The variety of sports is very widespread too, you can take part in badminton, volleyball, tennis, football, boxing the list is endless. And the best thing about it is, you don't have to be an elite athlete to take part. They also have a rewards scheme with active students, each time you attend a session you can get a stamp and when you obtain 10 you can get a free hoodie and t-shirt! It’s a great way to stay fit and healthy, to add to this, I've been a commuting student ever since I enrolled and I have not missed out on any of the social sides of the university experience, of course, certain students love nightlife events and we have plenty of events that help throughout the week for those who love a cheeky evening out, I personally prefer going to London and seeing concerts or theatre performances. From Hatfield station to Kings cross it’s just a 20-minute journey.
Male to Female ratio in Computer Science? Being a Female in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics)?
In terms of women in tech, it’s fairly obvious to say that yes there are more males in the industry, however, many companies and establishments are striving to achieve a more balanced gender ratio, the current ratio of women in computer science is 45% this has increased significantly since the 20th century. One of the main reasons why young girls choose not to pursue comp sci is due to a lack of role models in the industry. However, the whole female to male ratio is so ironic as Ada Lovelace was the world’s first computer programmer so I think it’s safe to say that having a role model to look up to couldn't have been any more inspirational and empowering. As a female in STEM, I feel strong as I can break the norms and stereotypes of others and work together with my peers to come up with solutions to problems. The computer science department held an event for world women’s day and female and male students from our course came together to celebrate women all over the world and women in Tech. I hope that it will be an annual event for many more of our students to celebrate in the future.