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Meet Ediz! Originally from Turkey, he's studying on our 3-year Computer Science BSc. Read about his favourite module, memorable classes, and how he's adapted to university life in London.
Tell us a bit about you
I am Ediz, and I study Computer Science BSc at UCL. I’m from Turkey and before coming to UCL, I was studying IB in Dubai. I had to get accustomed to the rain, but I absolutely love this city.
Why did you decide on UCL for your Computer Science BSc?
The one word I always use to describe UCL is cosy. There is something about the campus—maybe being right at the heart of the city, or the way the buildings are filled with quiet nooks, that make it feel homey. The atmosphere here is truly unmatched.
You get access to an unbelievable number of opportunities from internships to tech meetups in this massive city, while receiving some of the best education in the world. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and ambition.
How did you find the transition from studying IB in Dubai to being a university student in London?
I studied IB before coming to UCL, and I would say it prepared me extremely well. The workload could only be described as appropriate, and it was definitely manageable. The hardest part of settling into university is almost always living alone.
I had to rethink all of my previous routines and learn to cook something other than pasta. But as long as I kept a positive outlook, I realised the freedom found in independence is sweeter than the weight of its responsibilities.
How would you describe the teaching style?
The teaching style in UCL is pretty hands-off. There are plenty of opportunities to get extra help from problem classes and office hours, but no one has ever given out homework.
The best part of my course is the project-based modules, especially in Computer Science, as gaining experience using different technologies in practical applications is invaluable. It’s not just about lectures, you get to apply what you learn in real-world scenarios, which is super motivating and rewarding.
What has been your favourite module so far and why?
My favourite module has been Design and Professional Skills. The professor was incredibly knowledgeable and extremely funny. He had a series of pre-recorded lectures to complement the in-person ones, which were creative and super well-crafted.
I’ll never forget how he started the maze search algorithms lecture by canoeing through a historic maze. I think that really captures what UCL is all about; striving for excellence but keeping it light-hearted.
Do you have any plans for internships or gaining professional experience?
I think the best part of studying in London is the sheer number of professional opportunities. I plan to do an internship this summer to enhance my skillset even further. Professional experiences are not only great ways to apply your knowledge, but also to learn about how a team of developers works together in the real world.
Being situated in London makes it very easy to find these opportunities. UCL can also help you find internships and opportunities through its industry projects programme.
How easy was it to make friends on your course?
I haven’t met a single unfriendly person at UCL. There is a real sense of community within each course and within the university as a whole. The most fun part of the first term is getting to meet so many different friends, not to mention the seemingly infinite (it’s still finite) number of clubs and societies you can join. There is something for everyone.
What was your student accommodation like?
I stayed at one of UCL’s student accommodations which was super comfortable. It was really easy to settle in, and I quickly made lifelong friends who I might not have met otherwise. The rooms aren’t that big, it’s still London after all, but I was walking distance away from the campus where I spent most of my time anyway.
