Melissa Cordova Maldonado MSc Artificial Intelligence, 2019
Coming to live in another country to study is exciting, but it’s also a challenge to experience a different culture with a different academic system to my home country of Mexico. However, the staff make it easy for international students to feel at home. They help you settle in and organise plenty of events to meet new people. It is amazing to make friends from all over the world.
I came here because I was looking for the best programmes in MSc Artificial Intelligence, and saw the University of Southampton has achieved excellence in AI research and is one of the best 200 universities in the world.
To start with, I found studying was hard but, once you adapt, you enjoy learning. Some of the lecturers are very passionate about their courses and inspire you to go deeper in studying them.
The facilities on campus such as the Hartley Library and the buildings for ECS students are really good, well-equipped, modern and comfortable for studying.
What have been the highlights of your time here?
My best experiences have been all about what I’ve learned over the last year. You develop a deep theoretical knowledge and then apply it to practical projects. This makes you understand how to use what you’ve learned, and work in teams. I’ve improved my capabilities and knowledge and now know how to apply it to real world problems. I’ve also learned to organise my time and respond better to stressful situations.
Only three courses were compulsory in my course, and there were plenty of optional modules to choose from so you can focus your Masters to your own interests. I took Advanced Machine Learning, Deep Learning, and Data Mining and other options include Computational Finance, Biometrics, Reinforcement Learning etc
What do you think of the city of Southampton?
The city is nice and safe and full of parks and green areas. It has everything you need including shops, restaurants and a large modern mall.
During my studies, I have stayed at two different halls: City Gateway and Mayflower Halls. The first is near the University and the second is in the city centre. Both are modern with all the facilities you need, there are common study rooms and games such as ping pong and pool.
Do you have any advice for potential students?
Take advantage of all the opportunities the University of Southampton offers. Academic standards are high so make sure you go to all of your classes. Also, don’t miss out on the many extra activities and sports. If you have any problems, don’t’ hesitate to contact the staff as they are always ready to help you.