Sharna Henry

Computer Science with AI student, Sharna Henry, shares how the Henderson Scholarship has helped her during his studies.

Why did you choose to study this course?

I originally come from a medical background and when I applied for Computer Science with AI, I had in mind that I wanted to combine technology and healthcare together. I want to be able to help individuals on a mass scale.

How did you first hear about the Henderson Scholarship?

I found about the scholarship through an email from BCU, and the application process was simple and clearly explained.

How has receiving the scholarship made a difference to your studies and university life?

Receiving the scholarship has taken some of the financial pressure off and helped me feel less stressed and more confident. I can focus better on my studies and afford the equipment and materials I need. It’s also given me opportunities I might otherwise have missed and helped me get more involved in university life.

What has been your favourite part of your course so far?

I have particularly enjoyed computer programming (learning python, Java and C++/C). It has been difficult to choose my favourite part but I have really enjoyed learning python and Java in-depth. Learning how to manoeuvre through programming languages is one of the best skills when it comes to software programming. All of my modules have been informative and what is great about my course is that we have very experienced lecturers.

What achievement are you most proud of since starting university?

I am extremely proud of my team and I coming first place at the Innovation Project for our Falls Detection System ‘Kinora’ which we built from scratch, using hardware and software.

How has the Henderson Scholarship helped you personally?

The Henderson Scholarship has helped me in so many ways:

1. I have been able to build my confidence through networking and meeting new people from my own course and other course. The Henderson Scholarship has allowed me to feel confident, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone. 

2. Being awarded the scholarship and being apart of the Henderson community has made me feel a great sense of gratitude. There may be days where you may feel like not turning up, giving up or not putting 100% into your studies, but achieving the Henderson Scholarship encouraged me to walk into university every day, and put in that extra 10%, even on days when I didn’t feel like it. 

3. I felt a sense of relief that I shan’t be in thousands of pounds worth of debt by the time I’m 50 years old!. I am so grateful to be able to say that I’ am a Henderson Scholar and I’m so honoured to have received this award.

What do you hope to do after graduation?

After graduation I would like to work on some AI-related projects, focusing on men’s mental health (due to the rise in men’s suicide rates) and healthcare systems and pathways. My aim is to become an AI Engineer the medical sector.

What advice would you give to future Henderson Scholarship recipients or new students?

Before I applied, I had imposter syndrome. Sometimes your own brain can be your worst enemy. You will be busy, you will have your head down, but don’t drift away from engagement. Staying engaged is so important when it comes to your degree. It has opened so many doors for me, allowing me to meet different people. I took part in a research project based in London that looked the discrepancies in female and male students applying for STEM degrees. Taking part in this study was only possible through the Henderson Scholarship as one of the course lecturers reached out to me after my interview. So my advice would be to step outside your cosy comfort zone.