What to know what it’s like to study Computing at BCU. One of our current Cyber Security students Tayyeb Nadeem Somro reflects on their first year.

What made you choose to study Computing at BCU? 

I chose to study Cyber Security at BCU because I have always been fascinated by technology and how digital systems can be protected against attacks. When I was looking at courses, BCU really stood out. The labs, software, and hands-on equipment were far better than anything else I could find locally. I also liked that the course updates its modules every year to keep up with industry trends, so I knew I would be learning skills that are actually relevant in the real world.

At first, my goal was to become a penetration tester because I was drawn to the idea of ethically testing systems to find vulnerabilities. Since starting the course, though, my focus has shifted as I have explored different areas in computing and cybersecurity. I have realised there are a lot of paths I could take, and BCU gives me the resources and flexibility to explore them while still focusing on my passion for protecting digital systems.

Can you describe a project from your first year that really challenged you - and what you learned from it?

One of the projects that really pushed me in my first year was part of the Applied Operating Systems module. We had to build a server using Linux and AWS, and I had no experience with either. At first, it was completely overwhelming. I relied heavily on online tutorials, attended support sessions, and asked my lecturers to review my coursework regularly. It was a lot of work, but the persistence paid off. Not only did I complete the project successfully, but I also gained practical skills and confidence in Linux and AWS, which are essential tools in computing and cybersecurity.

Which piece of equipment or software did you find most difficult to master, and how did you overcome that?

AWS was definitely the hardest software for me to get my head around. There are so many services and configurations that it felt endless at first. I realised quickly that I had to get hands-on, so I spent hours experimenting, building small test servers, and troubleshooting issues as they came up. Over time, I became much more confident, and it taught me that practice and persistence are key when learning complex tools.

How has collaborating with classmates on projects shaped your learning experience?

 Working with classmates has also had a big impact on my learning. During a hackathon in my first year, I worked in a team for the first time on a tech project. We built a medical system that allowed doctors to manage and secure patient information offline. I was working with students from different courses, so everyone brought unique perspectives to the table. I learned a lot from their approaches to problem-solving, and it pushed me to think in new ways. That experience showed me the value of teamwork in computing, not just for sharing tasks but for combining ideas and skills to build something better.

How has your idea of what you want to specialise in changed since starting the course?

Since starting the course, my career focus has also shifted. Initially, I wanted to be a penetration tester because I enjoyed the technical side of cybersecurity. Now I am more interested in the managerial and consulting side, where I can combine technical knowledge with strategy to advise organisations on securing their systems. The course has helped me see the bigger picture of cybersecurity beyond just hands-on technical work.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their first year in Computing at BCU? 

If I could give advice to anyone starting their first year at BCU, it would be to start your coursework as early as possible. Break it down into weekly tasks and try to stick to them. It makes keeping on track much easier, especially if you are aiming for a first-class degree. Take your first year seriously because those grades will matter when applying for internships or placements, which can help fast-track your career. At the same time, get involved in group projects, join societies, and take part in activities where you can relax and have fun. Balancing hard work with social and extracurricular activities will make your first year more enjoyable and help you build a network for the future.