Applied Computer Science, Master 1 subject

What made you choose this degree programme?

I wanted a very technical degree, but one that would also allow me to interact with other disciplines. I wanted to better understand how computer science is used in other areas and how computer scientists can work with people from other disciplines.

In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?

Fulfilled: You have a lot of time to get to grips with the content of the degree programme. Later in life you probably won't have as much time to learn new things, so it's a good opportunity. In addition, the optional specialisation modules allowed me to gain exactly the impressions that helped me to decide which areas of computer science interest me more (and which interest me less).

Surpassed: Learning spaces at the RUB. The ‘OpenSpace’ for all students at the Faculty of Computer Science is a great place to work on problems together or to study for an exam.

Not fulfilled: I always thought that I would be some kind of universal expert in computer science after graduation - but the more you learn, the more you realise what you don't know yet. Computer science is a huge field and even at the end of your studies you won't know most of it, but hopefully you will have found the joy of discovering something new every day.

Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?

Puzzling! When you have been working on a task or a bug in a programme for a long time and finally find a good solution and, above all, understand why this solution works.

What has been your biggest challenge to date?

My biggest challenge during my studies was actually having the confidence to start studying at all. With the right bunch of students by your side, you can definitely get through the tough parts of the programme.

What would you like to become after completing your degree?

We’ll see.

Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?

On the one hand, you should take the time to assess as best you can beforehand whether you want to go in this direction professionally. On the other hand, don't be put off! I was also afraid at the beginning that I wouldn't have enough prior knowledge or that the exams would be far too difficult, but as long as you're keen on the things you learn here, you'll manage somehow.

Ceylan Temiz is a first-year student of Applied Computer Science. She is pursuing the Master of Science degree.

What made you choose this degree programme?

Because it is an application-oriented and interdisciplinary degree programme that promises good career opportunities.

In which respect have or haven’t your expectations been fulfilled?

Some mandatory lectures remind me of my school days when I used to think: “What do I need this subject for?” (laughs)

Which aspect of your degree programme do you enjoy most?

The fact that I have the choice among courses offered by different faculties.

What has been your biggest challenge to date?

The major challenge was to master the “Theoretical Computer Science” course due to its dry and complex nature – especially when compared with other courses.

What would you like to become after completing your degree?

I would like to work in the media industry.

Which advice would you like to give to students who consider enrolling in this degree programme?