Polya Yaneva

Choosing Surrey

After finishing high school in Bulgaria, I wanted to continue my education abroad and, more specifically, in the UK.

After many hours of research, I discovered the University of Surrey. From the moment I saw it, I knew I wanted to go there. It was love at first sight.

Surrey was also one of the few institutions in the UK offering exactly the degree I was looking for. I knew the BSc in Computing and Information Technology would give me the unique combination of computing, business and technical knowledge I’d need in the future.

My course

I’ve always been interested in science and, more specifically, mathematics and computer science. During high school, I attended extracurricular classes to further my knowledge in those areas.

In my second year at high school, my maths teacher invited me to join the IT team. I started attending meetings and we competed in a world championship.

After high school, I chose to focus on computer science. It allowed me to combine my interest in computing and continue developing my problem-solving and logical-thinking skills.

The course gives me a chance to study the subject I want with a supportive cohort. The lectures are designed in such a way so that we get a broad understanding of the topics, and the lecturers are always happy to help the students

Highlights

Studying at Surrey can be challenging, but it’s also fun when you have people you can count on. I’ll remember the afternoons and nights spent studying with my friends and the laughs we had in the breaks between revision. 

If I have to pick one highlight, it would be the lab sessions that we have for each module. Here we put into practice the theory that we learn, and we receive help from the lecturers and lab helpers. I work on different problems together with my course mates in a friendly environment.

Finally, the amazing computer labs where we work make the process of learning much nicer. 

Life at Surrey

I’m enjoying my time at Surrey. The campus provides us with everything we need. We have an amazing library and computer labs. The common spaces in the Library, the Hive or the Nest are always available for gatherings with friends, too.

When I want to relax during the day, my friends and I can go either for a walk around the beautiful campus or stroll into Guildford. At night, we can have fun in the nightclubs or bars on campus and in town. 

In terms of clubs and societies, I’ve taken part in the Bulgarian Society and some dancing societies. I joined CompSoc in my first year and I’m now part of the committee as Social Secretary.

The future

I’m planning to get workplace experience before going to complete my masters. I’m currently applying for graduate schemes and, thanks to the University and the support it provides, the process is easier.

There are many areas where computer science may be applied, but I’m interested in artificial intelligence and data privacy.

Tips for other students

All Surrey students are given the chance to study a language alongside their course. It’s a great additional offering and I’m thankful to the University for providing me with it.

Learn more about computer science undergraduate degrees.