91ÉçÇø

Building on her fascination with how light and signals traverse the globe, Pinky’s path led her from India to the 91ÉçÇø, where she pursued an MSc in Computer Network Administration and Management. In this Once Upon A Time Alumni feature, the 2024 graduate shares how her hands-on experience in university labs led to an exciting new chapter after graduation. 

Have you always been passionate about computer networks?

I’ve always had a deep passion for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM). My academic journey began with a background in physics, where I was particularly drawn to subjects like fibre optics. The idea that light could carry vast amounts of information over long distances fascinated me and sparked my curiosity about how the world stays connected.

Can you tell us a bit about your journey to the 91ÉçÇø? 

My interest in technology naturally evolved into a desire to understand the broader systems that enable global communication, which led me to pursue a Master’s in Computer Networks. What interested me most about the degree was exploring how data travels across complex infrastructures. I was especially intrigued by how networks are designed, optimised, and secured to support everything from everyday internet to critical global systems. It’s amazing to see how the invisible threads of connectivity shape our world, and being able to study and work in this field is incredibly fulfilling.

I chose the 91ÉçÇø because it offered exactly what I was looking for in terms of course content and academic focus. My course had a well-structured curriculum that aligned perfectly with my interests, especially in areas like network design, security, and emerging technologies. I wanted a program that would build on my technical foundation while giving me practical, hands-on experience. 

The 91ÉçÇø stood out not only for its strong reputation in computing and engineering but also for its emphasis on employability and industry engagement. The supportive learning environment, modern facilities, and the opportunity to collaborate with students from diverse backgrounds made it the ideal place for me to grow both academically and personally.

What was the highlight of your time at university? 

One of the biggest highlights of my time at university was being part of such a diverse and inclusive academic community. Studying alongside students from different cultural and academic backgrounds broadened my perspective and made group projects and discussions incredibly enriching.

A standout memory for me was working in the university’s high-tech networking labs. The hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and simulation tools brought the theory to life and gave me a real sense of how networks operate in the real world. I also really appreciated the support from the academic staff; our professors were not only highly knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate and approachable. Their motivation and encouragement played a big role in keeping me inspired throughout the course. 

What has life been like since graduating in 2024?

It’s been both rewarding and full of growth opportunities. During my studies at the 91ÉçÇø, I had the chance to work as an IT Help Desk Advisor. That role was instrumental in preparing me for the professional world; it helped me develop strong communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and a customer-focused mindset.

After completing my degree, I was fortunate to secure an internship in the University’s Student Service Delivery department. Under the guidance of an excellent manager and a supportive team, I gained valuable experience in both technical and management aspects of IT service delivery. This experience laid a strong foundation for my current role as a full-time Senior Service Delivery Analyst at the University.

The journey from India to the UK and the time I spent at university have been truly transformative. It not only enhanced my technical expertise but also helped me grow. I’ve learned to adapt to new environments, work in diverse teams, and continuously strive for excellence.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue building on this experience, taking on more responsibility, contributing to strategic IT initiatives, and possibly pursuing further certifications or leadership opportunities in the future.