Informatica

Studying Computing Science at the University of Groningen has been a fascinating journey. When I first started, I was mainly interested in programming, as I had some prior experience and enjoyed it immensely. However, I soon discovered that Computing Science has so much more to offer. The programme provides a great balance between theoretical knowledge and practical applications, which is perfect for someone like me who enjoys problem-solving but also wants to make a real-world impact.

One of the things that surprised me about the programme is how diverse it is. Although programming is a key component, there are also a variety of other fields that we cover, such as math, analysis, and collaboration, among others. Currently, I am studying signal processing and computer graphics, and I find both topics fascinating. They both have clear connections to the real world and are filled with problems that can be practically applied once solved.

The University of Groningen also provides ample opportunities to combine Computing Science with other subjects, such as the minor. The programme's multidisciplinary character, together with its interaction with the Bernoulli Institute, make it stand out from other programmes. Moreover, the world-class facilities for high-performance computing and visualization make it an excellent environment for students who want to work on cutting-edge projects.

Personally, I have really enjoyed my time at the University of Groningen. I work part-time at a web development company next to my studies, which allows me to put what I have learned into practice. Furthermore, I still have enough time left for my hobbies and fun activities. Although I will not be pursuing a Master's degree, I feel that the skills I have learned will be invaluable in my future career. Overall, I highly recommend the Computing Science programme at the University of Groningen to anyone who is interested in solving problems and making a real-world impact through technology.

In high school, I took Computing Science as an elective subject. I remember being very fascinated by programming and always looking forward to class. Because of this, my choice to study Computing Science came very naturally and was not surprising at all to anyone around me. I'm currently in the last year of my bachelor's, and I'm still really happy with my choice. I was pleasantly surprised with all the other aspects of Computing Science that I hadn't thought of before. For example, I really like the aspects of the programme that require analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Currently, I'm taking a course called Computer Graphics, which focuses on the mathematical aspect of rendering images. I will also be working on my bachelor's project and thesis soon. For my bachelor's project, I chose to work on a project at a company, which I'm very excited about!

Next to my studies, I also work for the university as a teaching assistant, student mentor, and member of the Computing Science information team. I'm also a member of the study association Cover, where I met many great people. I also enjoy being in the Cover room, where I like to work on assignments or talk with friends.

Toen ik op de middelbare school zat, had ik moeite om de juiste studie te kiezen. Ik wist dat ik het leuk vond om problemen op te lossen, maar ik wist niet met welke opleiding ik die interesse kon combineren. Ik dacht eerst aan wiskunde, omdat dat ook een vak was dat ik op de middelbare school had, maar dat was me toch iets te abstract. Ik ben naar meerdere open dagen en Een Dag Student-dagen geweest en daar raakte ik overtuigd om Computing Science te gaan doen.

Het mooie aan Computing Science vind ik dat je problemen kunt oplossen en door programmeren meteen een reactie krijgt of het goed gaat of niet. Het is heel praktisch een probleem oplossen, terwijl je nog steeds op een academisch niveau aan het denken gezet wordt. Bovendien kun je ook aan de opleiding beginnen zonder programmeerervaring, dus dat kwam perfect uit voor mij.

Het leukste aan deze opleiding is de voldoening die je krijgt na het maken van een werkend programma. Programmeren kan soms heel frustrerend zijn, zeker als je ergens op vast zit, maar als alles werkt aan het eind van de dag is dat het zeker waard. Je krijgt bevestiging dat je harde werk wordt beloond en dat het met tijd en moeite steeds makkelijker wordt. Met die motivatie ga ik vooral de studie door.

Naast mijn studie heb ik meerdere bijbanen. Ik zit in het voorlichtingsteam van de opleiding en ben een paar keer mentor voor de eerstejaarsstudenten CS geweest. Het liefst zou ik vaker gaan sporten bij de ACLO, maar dat schiet er nog wel eens bij in. Ik probeer vaak met vrienden af te spreken of zie ze in de studieverenigingskamer in de Bernoulliborg. Het is ook altijd gezellig om samen te gaan eten!

'During my first year I got a job with Manter, a machinery automation company. I was involved in testing new applications.

This helped me get a better grasp of the subject matter and gave me plenty of practical experience and self-assurance, resulting in a job as a project leader as soon as I completed my studies. The projects I work on involve new software systems. Some days I’ll be training end-users, others I’ll design new features, while other days will be all meetings or we’ll spend the whole day testing and fixing bugs.

If I had to choose today, I would do Computing Science again. The demand for software developers continues to grow. I’d also choose to study in Groningen again. My friends studied in other cities, but we all agree: Groningen is the number 1 student city!’

Avdo Hanjalic, software engineer/architect bij Manter B.V

I think studying here is quite different from what I was used to in Romania. During high-school, we were always reminded of what we have to do, whereas here all the responsibility falls only on your own shoulders.

I decided to stay in “The Student Hotel” for my first year. Living in a place full of students, all coming from different places, really offers you the opportunity to form new bonds and friendships!