Ruoyi Zhao

What's your background?

I'm from China and completed my undergraduate degree in physics and mathematics at the University of Liverpool in 2018. While not directly related to computer science, it provided a strong foundation in mathematical concepts relevant to modules like Data Science and Algorithmic Trading.

Why did you choose to study Computer Science at UCL?

I was drawn to the Blockchain Technologies module, as UCL is one of the few universities offering dedicated blockchain courses. The UCL Centre for Blockchain Technologies is well-regarded in industry and provides opportunities to engage with the latest research and applications through workshops and events.

What were the highlights of your CS programme?

Data Science was a highlight, where I launched my own data analytics project to analyse a real-world problem. This demonstrated my strong data storytelling abilities and provided experience to showcase on my CV.

The Digital Technologies and Business Strategy module provided insights into emerging technologies and their global business applications. Each session covered a new technology and included presentations, plus guest speakers from start-ups using these technologies. Hearing diverse perspectives on technology trends made this a uniquely valuable course.

What were the highlights of your time generally at UCL?

As a global university in central London, I made friends from diverse backgrounds and worked on group projects. With over 300 student clubs and societies, there were ample opportunities to build new connections.

Joining UCL gave me access to an extensive alumni network spanning diverse companies and industries worldwide, especially when you are applying to new companies.

What industry and career opportunities did you get access to on your programme?

Career fairs and networking events can be accessed in three main ways. The UCL Career Centre send emails about university-wide events.

Student societies such as AI and Computer Science host industry speakers and networking opportunities. Additionally, professors may invite companies - for example, my blockchain course lecturer brought in Ripple.

What did you write your dissertation on?

My dissertation involved researching perpetual derivatives, an emerging and complex financial instrument. This project, assigned based on my background, built invaluable skills. I learned how to thoroughly analyse academic sources, synthesize information into my own narrative, and effectively present complex research.

The quantitative modelling and derivatives analysis expanded my finance knowledge. Conducting rigorous academic research and presenting those findings polished my ability to grasp new concepts.

How did you manage your workload, and what advice would you give to prospective students in terms of being successful and making the most of opportunities at UCL?

To manage my workload, I utilised support from staff and took advantage of opportunities such as research internships, which provided valuable experience aligned with my dissertation. While the department offered ample additional opportunities, I had to ensure I could balance my own projects and research first before taking on extra commitments.

Overall, being proactive about seeking support and strategic in managing my time allowed me to make the most of the department's offerings while successfully completing my programme.

If you were an international student, how easy was it to settle in? How did you find studying in the UK?

As an international student, I would recommend utilising university resources, in-person lectures to connect with diverse peers, as well as joining student clubs and societies, to make new friends.

Studying in London can be busy with coursework, so it's important to manage time effectively during the week and also enjoy the weekends exploring the city's culture, food, and places. Making an effort to build relationships while balancing academics is the key to getting the most out of studying in the UK as an international student.

Where are you working now, and what are your career goals? How did your programme help to achieve this?

At the moment, I am looking for graduate roles. My career goal is to work at a fintech company in areas related to technology consulting, data analytics, or fintech product management. Courses in data science, digital business strategy, and software engineering for fintech have equipped me with relevant skills and experience.

My coursework in these areas allows me to demonstrate knowledge and competencies to employers in the fintech sector and technology consulting roles which I am now targeting.

Why would you recommend this course?

I would recommend this course for its premier location in central London, enabling easy access to networking, cultural experiences, and internships. The staff are extremely supportive, and fellow students from diverse backgrounds create a global community.

The programme equips you with knowledge and skills targeted for careers in emerging digital technologies like fintech, data science, and blockchain. Overall, the academics, location, community, career preparation, and lasting alumni network make this an excellent programme.

The information on this page reflects the graduate's status at the time of publication (October 2024)