Italian student Simone Agus first qualified in hospitality before realising his passion for the world of computing. Simone tells us what his experience on the Computing BSc (Hons) as a mature student has been like and how London Met has changed his life.
What makes the course a valuable degree for you?
This course is helping me to develop my skills and knowledge of the IT world. I have always been fascinated by the programming language Java. Before I started my course, I thought a career in the IT industry would be something impossible, but since then, by looking at websites and talking to my tutor, I’ve realised it’s not impossible if you apply yourself and dedicate yourself to your studies.
What are your lecturers like?
My lecturers are very friendly and super-knowledgeable! My lecturer of fundamental of computing is a specialist in artificial intelligence, something that I really want to work in, and he has always made it clear that anybody can come to him and ask him as many questions as we have, even if our questions are not related to the lecture itself.
How do you find the facilities at London Met?
The facilities here are amazing; in my first year here I wasn’t able to finish exploring all the labs - it’s that big! I regularly use the labs as they are fully equipped with computers with the latest operating systems. The computing labs are fully equipped of all the tools I need to fully understand and practice the subjects I am learning. We used BlueJ to programme in Java and Python 3 to develop a programme for our module, Fundamentals of Computing.
What do you like to do when you're not at University?
I enjoy taking a walk with my dog in Crystal Palace Park. My dog’s name is Victoria – she’s a lovely tan-coloured Staffy-Labrador cross. I sometimes think going to Crystal Palace is like entering another dimension; it’s so peaceful and very animal- and family-friendly, the perfect spot for a getaway. I go to Crystal Palace park on daily basis just to have a walk and sit on the grass with my dog, I feel so relaxed there. But what I really love is Buckingham Palace. Visiting it makes me think of life in more ancient times. The fact that the Queen lives there and that anyone can go there and share with her the park and her ‘house’ is something that really makes me feel part of London.
What are your career plans?
My goals after the course is to develop an idea that I’ve had in mind for some time that might make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, to use technology to help people live fuller lives. My aim is to use technology to help people who face limitations in doing things to have an easier life. I have always dreamed of being able to work remotely so I can combine my passion for travel and earning while I explore the world. Alternatively, I would like to find a job that allows me to work around the world but be based in London. I love living in London as there are so many opportunities here.
You're a mature student - how did you find things at London Met?
Joining London Met as a mature student has been amazing. It’s a friendly environment, really relaxed. My tutors are always ready to explain things further to make sure I fully understand every lecture. I thought it was going to be more difficult because of the age gap between me and the other students but all my worries have disappeared now.
Why London Met specifically?
The open day clinched it for me. I was really impressed about the facilities and the structure of the course. The open day was very helpful in understanding what the course offered. I was able to have a campus tour. I loved the library and it really impressed me that it has a spot for everyone, whether they wanted to study in silence or work in a group.
Have you any advice you'd like to pass on to new students?
Don’t think that you are too old to do something for yourself or to make a life change. At London Met you will find the best people who will support you step-by-step to achieve your goals. A whole new world has opened itself before my eyes, with all the amazing careers that are available to me after the course. I am happy to have chosen London Met, not just for the facilities but for the people, because London Met is a place where people matter.
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