Francois's UWTSD Experience
Name: Francois Riches
Course: Certificate in Higher Education Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Computing)
Hometown: Port Talbot
Francois's CertHE Stem (Computing) Experience
What is your favourite thing about Swansea campus?
My favourite thing about attending the IQ Building for my studies is often the walk there in the mornings. The views of the marina to one side and the green hills on the other are often a great start to the day. It can be a really refreshing walk before arriving at the IQ early and making myself comfortable. The library is right next door and has some great views too. It might seem like a small thing, but anything that can help in keeping a good positive mindset I find quite important.
Why did you choose UWTSD?
To be entirely honest it was proximity – living in Port Talbot it was simply easier to attend UWTSD. Not that I had even considered anywhere else. I only have UWTSD for reference but I’m very happy there and I look forward to the rest of my time studying there.
What do you enjoy outside your studies?
Mostly as a mature student I enjoy the people in my life and my solitude sitting at my computer. A little bit of gaming at home and time with friends and their families. I am also involved with a local charity and enjoy volunteering with them. I like eating out and getting coffee in Swansea.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
I am taking everything one step at a time and have not given much thought to what comes after university. I have received emails that inform me of events for employment and other opportunities held at UWTSD. I’m yet to attend one of these since I am only at foundation level, however, next year I plan to partake and see what is available. For me personally the journey is enough right now; I’ll let the destination reveal itself.
What is your favourite thing about your course?
I have enjoyed a lot about attending the course, and it is hard to single out just one thing. I have had many great lecturers at the University, many different and interesting personalities for the most part excellent at keeping me engaged and interested. I’ve enjoyed working with my peers, being helped by them and helping others. As a mature student I have even enjoyed just the academic journey, the challenge to myself to actually do something constructive. And I really enjoyed getting to do that in a comfortable and welcoming environment.
How has the course helped you?
Attending the course has helped me a great deal. I had no structure before this, and it really helps by engaging me intellectually. The CertHE foundation course in particular helps with my lack of knowledge concerning academic standards. From how to effectively write reports, to mathematics and programming, I feel better prepared for the degree ahead of me. It has also given me needed experience in taking exams and giving presentations.
