A-level graduate — Tawfeeq Hussain

After completing A-levels in biology, English language, English literature and core maths at South Craven School Keighley, Tawfeeq is now looking to study a computer science degree

Tell us about your experience studying for your A-levels.

I enjoyed being able to plan out my revision based on my existing knowledge of the content. In the lead-up to the final exams, I was able to identify my progress over the course of two years and look back proudly on all my hard work.

The only dislike was the limited or delayed exposure I had to past papers and exam style questions in some subjects, which made me feel somewhat unprepared for the actual exams I was due to take.

How have you prepared for A-level results day?

To prepare for results day, I've listed my UCAS offers with entry requirements and identified those I expect to meet as well as the ones I aspire to meet in comparison to my UCAS predicted grades.

In doing this, I've been able to create a plan A and plan B, which will allow me to choose the most suitable route into university no matter what grades I achieve on results day.

What degree subject are you looking to study at university?

I first want to study computer science, and then hopefully progress to a Masters degree in machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI).

What was the university application process like?

It was quite simple and straightforward as the UCAS Hub and teachers from my school were able to provide any information regarding the process in an accessible way.

When applying, the timeframe for receiving and replying to offers from universities was also made clear.

Which universities are you considering studying at and why?

I have selected the University of Bradford as my firm choice and Leeds Beckett University as my insurance choice. I have chosen these two universities as they have made it clear that studying IT or computer science prior to university isn't compulsory, as the courses will start in the first year assuming little to no background knowledge of the field. This has reassured me that I will not be at a disadvantage in September despite not having studied IT before.

How prepared do you feel for the transition from school to university study?

I feel I am reasonably prepared for the transition to university with my biggest concern being the timetable and schedules. In sixth form, I became used to having free periods and alternating schedules with some lessons and extra-curricular activities timetabled after the school day. This has allowed me to become used to having irregular schedules and planning my independent learning on a daily and weekly basis, rather than relying on the input of teachers or supervisors.

What are your career plans at this time?

After graduating from my intended Masters course, I aim to work in an entry-level cloud architecture role or a related specialism before progressing to my goal of becoming a machine learning engineer.

I also aim to take the skills and experience I gain from studying at university abroad in the future to allow me to work in my dream field while enjoying other cultures.

What other qualifications will you need to become a machine learning engineer?

Alongside a computer science degree and a machine learning and AI Masters degree, I believe I will also need to regularly complete CPD (continuing professional development) courses to ensure I have the necessary skills for success in a machine learning role.

What advice would you give to others thinking of studying A-levels at school/college?

• Before choosing any A-level subjects, be sure to fully read and research the entry requirements, existing knowledge required and the specification of the course. This will allow you to make informed choices of your subjects and ensure you're studying courses you feel confident and happy about.
• Keep a diary or digital calendar to hand throughout your school day. By doing this, you'll make planning for homework time easier and can create a healthy balance between school work and home time.
• Review topics on a weekly basis. This means you can revise the topics you learned in one week and make sure you can identify how confident you feel about them. You can then take necessary actions to spend more or less time on them in future.

Find out more

• Explore getting into university.
• Discover what careers you can enter with a computer science degree.
• Read about AI, machine learning and big data courses.