School of Computing and Digital Media student profiles content store_hidden Asya Katanani Our students and alumni

Asya Kantanani studied Data Science here at London Met and is now a lecturer in computer science and data analytics.

Tell us a little bit about yourself... 

I was born in Bulgaria and lived there for the first 11 years of my life. Then, my family emigrated to Türkiye where I completed my college degree. Finally, I had a chance to study Electric and Electronics Engineering at the Near East University in Northern Cyprus where I obtained my BSc degree in 2001. 

After I graduated, I worked in various roles, but mainly in the IT industry. And for the last few years I’ve been working in the UK within the education sector. 

What brought you to London Met?

I was intrigued by the accreditations for the Data Analytics MSc, that is, the Chartered IT Professional status by the British Computer Society (BCS), which allows graduates to obtain accreditation that entitles them to professional membership of the BCS. 

Additionally, I was attracted to the University for its commitment to inclusivity and the opportunity to interact with a diverse student body. London Met welcomes students from various backgrounds, indicating the diversity of the institution.  

Tell us about your current role? 

So, I’ve been delivering lectures in computer science and data analytics. I am responsible for planning, preparing and delivering lectures and practical sessions to students. Additionally, I take a part in developing learning materials, revising course content and administering assessments (such as exams, assignments and projects) to evaluate students' understanding and knowledge. I am also responsible for providing constructive feedback to students and grading their work objectively. 

And what's next in your career? 

There are a couple of things I wish to realise. First of all, I’m preparing an industry-relevant curriculum to allow graduates to secure jobs easily. Also, I aim to obtain a PGCE in computing and my PhD degree in artificial intelligence for big data.  

Can you explain more about your final project?

My final project is called “Cloud Spark Cluster to analyse English Prescription Big Data for NHS Intelligence”. I applied machine learning concepts on English prescription Big Data on Azure HDInsight cluster. I came up with invaluable prediction outcomes regarding potential future medication requirements as well as some technical solutions regarding Big Data utilising Cloud Spark cluster HDInsight. This study emerged since NHS, UK’s healthcare organisation, holding extensive repositories of patient data produces information at an enormous rate. This growth exceeds the capabilities of established IT infrastructures and represents largely greenfield computing and data management problems. New data management systems have been introduced to meet the challenges of big data. 

Cloud computing is an ideal platform for big data as it provides limitless computing resources and services on demand. Also, businesses don’t necessarily have to build their own infrastructure or maintain it. Thus, the cloud makes big data technologies accessible and affordable to almost any size of enterprise.

What is your biggest passion in life and where did that passion come from?

My biggest passion in life is teaching! It gives me a sense of fulfilment to know that I add value to people’s lives. Besides, teaching is a profession that requires continuous learning and growth. And this is my lifelong passion: to pursue this knowledge, grasp it and deliver it. Finally, playing a role in student achievements allows me to take pride in that.

What drives you? 

The passion to learn and deliver the latest advancements to the class.  

What’s the proudest moment in your life? 

My kids’ achievements. 

Tell us a bit about your interests and why they're importany to you?

I'm a sports fan. I think it is an absolute requirement to keep fit and healthy in the contemporary era. 

How were the other students and the teaching staff on the course? Are you still in touch?

With London Met, I found out that – I can. I was constantly encouraged to think outside the box and motivated for the best outcomes. And I made great friends with whom I’m still in touch with.  

Simply, I loved the inspiring and diverse environment of London Met. 

Did you do any work experience as part of the course? Can you tell us more and what the challenges and highlights were?

Thanks to London Met, I gained invaluable experience in big data. Despite numerous challenges emerging from the nature of this field, the motivation, inspiration and persistence of Dr Sandra Fernando (one of the greatest project leaders I have ever met), I successfully completed the project I worked on. Now, we are attending the Big Data Conference together. 

Do you have any advice for anyone considering studying at London Met?

Studying at London Met can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it requires hard work, dedication and active participation.  

I would advise newcomers to take advantage of the resources available, get involved in student organisations or clubs to meet new people, and develop new skills and interests. Also, I’d recommend regularly attending your lectures and seminars, and seeking help when needed, as London Met has many resources available to support students, including counselling services and disability support services. 

If you could sum up your experience at London Met in one word or phrase, what would it be?

London Met: Discover your hidden potential!