Amir Murtaza

Before starting, I expected the programme to help me bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the UK technology industry, and it certainly delivered on that. I chose UWS London because I wanted a university that focused on career-ready skills and offered the chance to study in a major global tech hub.

During my studies, I gained a strong foundation in software development life cycles and technical problem-solving. I found the coding projects particularly valuable, as they reflected the kind of collaboration and problem-solving I now experience at Vega Soft. The learning environment at UWS London encouraged me to research independently, adapt quickly, and apply what I was learning in practical ways.

Working on these projects helped me develop not just technical skills, but also the confidence to approach real-world challenges. Like many graduates, I faced moments of self-doubt along the way. There were times when I wondered if I was ready or capable, but I stayed disciplined with my daily schedule and reminded myself of my long-term goals.

I started my applications early, before graduation, so I could get a head start. I focused on positions that matched the technical stack I had mastered during my MSc programme, which helped me present myself as a strong candidate.

I treated every interview as a learning opportunity, refining my communication skills and growing more confident with each interaction. Keeping a resilient and growth-oriented mindset was key to pushing through challenges. This mindset enabled me to secure my role, building a portfolio to showcase my coding projects.

Another important aspect of my journey was continuously improving my technical skill set outside of my coursework. While the MSc IT programme gave me a solid foundation, I recognised that the tech industry evolves rapidly, so I made it a priority to stay updated with new tools and frameworks.

I also learned the importance of effective communication and teamwork. At university, group assignments helped me understand how to collaborate with people from different backgrounds, which closely mirrors the professional environment I work in today. Being able to clearly explain technical concepts and contribute to team discussions has been just as valuable as my coding skills.

For students starting their journey, I would advise being proactive from day one. Networking is essential, staying curious about new technologies helps you stand out, and making full use of the career support offered by the university can make a real difference.

I made use of the UWS career services to understand what UK employers expect and to get a better understand . I tailored my CV for each application, highlighting projects that demonstrated my practical skills. This approach gave me an edge and ultimately helped me land my position and thrive in the career and industry I am now in.