Edinburgh Napier University

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I moved to Edinburgh from South Africa when I was 21. I worked in Marketing for a while, but I wanted a change of pace and started to teach myself programming. After learning the foundations, I wanted a more in depth understanding of programming and design and decided to go to university to learn this. 

Why did you choose to study at Edinburgh Napier University? 

A lot of university options had a strong focus on either design or programming, but I was looking for a balance of both. I found the modules on the Web development and design programme had the best balance. I had also spoken to a friend who was studying at Napier, and he only had great things to say about the University, it was an easy decision. 

What attracted you into studying your course? 

The overall balance of the course. The modules would give you a strong platform to spring into the many realms of Web development, and you wouldn’t be cornered into being a developer or designer, you had the freedom to focus on what you felt passionately about. 

Has your course given you any practical opportunities out-with standard teaching? 

I was given the opportunity to work for the university continuing a group project that was done in the final semester of year 3 and developing it further, it provided me with a fantastic experience of working with people from different departments and the different IT fields and how we could all work together and feed off each other's expertise. 

Do you have any highlights of studying at Edinburgh Napier University? 

In second year, I was given the opportunity to be a demonstrator, where I would assist students in first year during practical work sessions. It was a great experience for me and taught me the value of teaching and helping students.  

Have you faced any challenges? 

I started at Napier when I was 25. My first year was done remotely due to the pandemic and returning to Education at 26 was a somewhat daunting prospect. However, the diverse group of people at the University made my time there incredibly comfortable.  

Would you recommend the course to others? If so, why? 

Absolutely, you’ll be given the opportunity to learn so many aspects of Web development and design and every module, every bit of class material and every project looks to challenge you and challenge your creativity. You are given countless opportunities to express yourself and discover your passion. 

What key skills have you learned from your university experience? 

My communication skills improved immensely, learning to communicate ideas in a way that everyone can understand is invaluable and through different projects, and demonstrating I was able develop my communication skills. 

Can you sum up your student experience living in Edinburgh? 

Edinburgh is one of the most accommodating cities for students, there are dozens of easy transport links to the university from multiple areas, tons of great places to meet people and hang out with people, to work, or to just switch off and chill. Its remarkably safe, and friendly. 

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying this course? 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Lecturers want to help; they want to teach you and want to see you succeed. Push yourself to find the solution, but if you’re stuck, if you hit that wall, ask for help.  

What’s next for you? 

Currently I am doing freelance work, I have 2 big projects I am working on. I am also hoping to continue my studies in January, at Napier.