Matt Godfrey

I moved to Surrey as a second year student, having realised that the course I was studying at another University was too narrow in scope. Surrey’s Computing and Information Technology degree course combines technical content with functional management modules from Surrey Business School. Also, it’s accredited by BCS, the chartered institute for IT, which is a requirement for entering some specific STEM-related graduate schemes, so broadens your career options.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of my course was the Final Year Project. For this, I developed a new web-based application for NHS in-patients which enabled them to access ward-based information and services using an iPad-like device at their bedside. This was my first experience of developing a solution for a real world problem, and something that could be used as the basis for further research in this field.

When I graduated from Surrey I decided to set up Godfrey Designs, a website design and bespoke software development company, as a way of helping businesses impacted by Covid. Many small businesses do not have an online presence, and websites and software projects can cost thousands of pounds, typically because software companies have additional costs such as hiring staff, paying for offices and advertising. Being a self-employed graduate, I’ve been able to keep costs as low as possible for the customer, and give them the tools they need to adapt to a changing world.

Setting up a business in lockdown has been challenging, but my degree gave me a foundation of business knowledge that I’ve applied to this new endeavour, as well as my computing expertise. My motivation has been the positive feedback I’ve received and knowing that I have, in my own way, helped an independent business to succeed.

Looking back at my time at Surrey, the best things were the safe community feel, the beautiful campus with its close links to London, and the wide choice of clubs and societies. There really is something for everyone, and I think this gives people the opportunity to find where they belong.

I joined the Ballroom and Latin Dance Club (despite having no dance experience) and the Polo Club. These two clubs really helped me to make new friends and enhanced my university experience greatly.

I have successfully won a place and just started on a two-year Civil Service graduate scheme in engineering as a sponsored student, which was delayed due to Covid. At the same time, I intend to continue to run Godfrey Designs which will develop my work experience and help businesses through this difficult time, while also helping me to keep my options open for the future.

Discover our courses in computer science including our BSc (Hons) Computing with Information Technology.