Miles Renwick

I wanted to go into this career primarily due to my passion for IT and the potential for career progression and self achievement, If you're ambitious you can go far in this industry, not just at DXC. I have been given industry level training, certifications and learn more and more every day. 

What are you doing now?

Right now I work with an array of exciting database accounts that offer a vast level of different experiences, this allows me to work with a wide-variety of people. Without Northumbria University I wouldn't be the person or industry expert I am today.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

I choose Northumbria because I love Newcastle, its people and the career potential in this region. All accessible without having to move away from home. It is well known for its nightlife but the people make you want to stay here. Northumbria also has the industry and expert staff that accompany the many joys of the north east of England.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

There was a mix of lectures, independent studying and team projects which allowed for me to work alongside my friends to achieve our future ambitions, Three of us now work for the same company on the same graduate scheme, this clearly indicates the impact of this University on its students.

How connected was your course with industry?

I worked on multiple mock industry projects that allowed gave me an invaluable experience. We also had guest lectures with amazing insights, which inspired my current job.

If you took on a placement during your course how did you feel this helped you in your career/ with your studies?

I actually found my own client during my course and created a website for my driving instructor who uses it to this day! This worked excellently alongside our study of industry and how to work with clients.

What was the best thing about your course?

Working on real projects alongside my friends was amazing and being able to study with unlimited resources.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

It made me more well-rounded and offered knowledge other courses wouldn't such as studying specific gaps in the industry that are under-staffed, allowing myself early, yet significant career progress.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

Besides the technical ability, my research and self assessment skills were rapidly improved and used to this day, most recently allowing for a "remarkable" performance review, allowing me to set career ambitions. Many students believed this to be a waste of time but I felt this would be of great benefit and...it has. My career benefits greatly from this!

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I enjoyed the engaging modules and being challenged, but specifically meeting new people was great and making what are life long friends. Joining Northumbria University was probably the greatest and most important decision I have ever made!

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Use all the resources available to you and be sure to plan your time, living in the library isn't the way forward. Also making friends can be great especially when you need that little bit of support and it makes the experience so much better. At first this was hard for me as I am quite shy. However putting yourself out there will help you more than you can imagine!

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Challenging, fun, engaging