For a long while computers have been what I see in my future. Like with many other children in my generation, my parents have always been somewhat computer illiterate, and so I taught myself how to operate and manipulate computers to do exactly what I needed them to do.

My interest in computers stems from a broader interest of mine; understanding the process by which things work. This has instilled good research and investigative techniques in me, and has helped me many a time when I encountered a problem with a device. By understanding the logic behind something, you can manipulate it in a way that would benefit you, and this obviously is a key principle in the world of computing science. During my National 5 and Higher computing courses, I developed an understanding of the internal components of a computer, and since then I have built upon this basic understanding through internet forums, videos and articles which have all helped me to better understand what makes a computer work. However, an undergraduate degree in computing will ensure I am prepared to enter the workplace in the field of computing.

I have also spent 3 years studying Mathematics and Physics at National 5, and then Higher level. These are both very logical subjects and they too address the question of how things work. During my time in physics, I learned about electricity and waves. I found these topics particularly interesting to me as they are the bases of what modern day computing. In maths, I learned about more advanced trigonometry, vectors and optimisation all of which I found myself using when developing applications that handle geometry or rendering of shapes and structures.

Recently I embarked on a work experience placement with Matrix solutions. During the placement I learned about the work of Matrix as an energy efficiency company and their role in providing major retailers with smart energy management through online applications developed from the ground up. During the week, I learned about data management and data analytics, a rapidly growing industry in the computing world. I was able to work with the software that they previously have used to create energy efficiency solutions and created my own version of software that would function if it were to be used in a real-world scenario. This cemented my belief that software development is something that I would very much enjoy doing as a full-time job in the future.

I attended a University Open day in September, where I met with five current students who had all taken the Computing Science course, and they only encouraged me whilst affirming that Computing Science is the right degree for me. I was particularly excited about their study of AI and them competing against each other to create the most efficient AI. This is something that I loved the sound of as it encourages a competitive attitude, something which I pride myself upon having, as well as explaining this rapidly growing area of computing, and I am very interested in due to the potential it has for the entirety of mankind in the future.

In my school life, I have volunteered for the past few months in a second year ICT classroom, helping pupils with basic computing needs such as formatting tables, creating databases or learning about the different environmental aspects of IT. This has allowed me to pass on my enthusiasm in Computing onto the younger generation, as well as helped me to develop confidence and leadership skills. I also represent my school as a My World of Work Ambassador, where my job has been educating people within from higher echelons of the teaching staff to primary children on the purpose of the My World of Work website. This has helped many students better understand what their life might be after School, University, College, or just their future in general.

I am excited about the transition from high school to university as it will allow me to further develop my knowledge of Computing Science through exciting opportunities, and will prepare me for a rewarding and exciting career in one of the biggest and most competitive fields in the world.