Murat Cardak (Computer Science BSc, 2024)

Why did you choose to study Computer Science and why Queen Mary?

I chose to study Computer Science because I’ve always been fascinated by technology and how it underpins almost everything we interact with today. I wanted to be part of a field that constantly evolves and drives innovation. I chose Queen Mary because of its strong academic reputation, diverse student community, and its location in London, which opens up great opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

What did you most enjoy about your course?

I really appreciated the combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The course offered a solid foundation in key areas like programming, algorithms, and systems, while also giving us the chance to apply what we learned through projects and real-world problems. I also enjoyed the supportive teaching environment and access to modern labs and resources.

What are you proud of from your experience at Queen Mary?

I’m proud to have graduated with a First Class degree, which was the result of hard work and dedication throughout the course. One of my proudest achievements was having my final-year project published. It was incredibly rewarding to see my research recognised, and it gave me a strong sense of accomplishment and confidence moving forward in my career. 

Which modules did you enjoy the most and were there any academics that had a strong influence on shaping your time and studies here?

Some of the modules I enjoyed the most included Software Engineering, Data Structures and Algorithms. These modules not only challenged me but also deepened my interest in problem-solving and data-driven systems. Several academics were really supportive and helped shape my time at Queen Mary, especially through their guidance on coursework and my final-year project.

Were you a member of any societies or attend any industry events during your time at Queen Mary? If so which and what did you gain from them?

I wasn’t a member of any societies, but I focused my time on academics and independent learning. That said, I found the course itself and the interactions with lecturers and peers incredibly enriching. I also kept an eye on tech industry trends and developments outside of university, which helped prepare me for life after graduation.

What is your current position? How have you applied the skills and knowledge you have gained in your programme to your current career?

I’m currently working as a Data Recovery Engineer at Ontrack. The technical knowledge I gained during my time at Queen Mary especially in areas like systems, data management, and problem-solving has been crucial to my role. I deal with complex data loss scenarios, and having a strong foundation in computer science concepts has helped me approach each case methodically and confidently.

What’s one piece of advice you’d offer to someone considering studying your programme at Queen Mary?

Make the most of the resources and support available whether that’s academic help, career advice, or opportunities to explore your interests through projects. Focus on building a solid understanding of the fundamentals, as they will serve you well no matter which area of tech you go into. And don’t be afraid to push yourself some of the most rewarding parts of the course came from challenges that helped me grow.