Jacob
BEng (Hons) Software Engineering
Jacob's passion for software engineering started with a fascination for computers.
Now in his third year of our BEng (Hons) Software Engineering programme, Jacob has built an impressive portfolio of experience. This includes working as Lead Software Engineer at SpaceKraft Ltd where he develops sensory solutions for children with complex needs.
This is his story.
My love for software engineering stems from its limitless possibilities.
Finding my path
"I’ve always been interested in computers, how they work, and how we interact with them."
"The fact that we've created such complex systems from maths is mind blowing. I especially love the problem-solving aspect of it – software is the creative application of logic.
"Before coming to Bradford, I was an operations manager for five years. Although the company offered to sponsor me to go to university, I decided to quit my job to pursue what I really wanted to do. It took me a couple of years to figure out that software engineering was my passion."
Bradford is built on the people
"The support and collaboration from the University have been amazing."
"I would especially like to mention the Engineering and Optometry and Vision Science lecturers, who are experts in their fields.
"The first year was about getting everyone on the same level, which was necessary, but I was eager to go into more detail.
"The Enterprise Project module was a highlight as it simulated real-world industry settings and client interactions.
"My final year project focuses on researching algorithms for children with cerebral visual impairment which has been an incredible experience.
"Coming here, you have the opportunity to develop connections with experts who can open so many doors for you. You can learn online, but university is about so much more than that.
"I got my job and my research progressed because of the people here."
My time at Bradford has been transformational.
Engineering Leaders Scholarship
"I was awarded the Royal Academy of Engineering Leaders Scholarship."
"This allowed me to pursue my interest in ophthalmology by supporting a visit to a clinic in Tanzania. The scholarship provides funding and networking opportunities, and through it I also gained a mentor at Weill Cornell Medicine.
"I want to get more non-Russell Group students involved in the scholarship. A lot of universities don’t push it or know about it, and there’s a clear divide which I’m passionate about changing.
"I did a talk this year for applicants to try and encourage more students from underrepresented backgrounds to apply."
Extracurricular activities and projects
"My other extracurricular activities include being a reviewer and interviewer for the Amazon Future Engineer Scholarship, and a design reviewer for Engineers Without Borders UK."
"I'm also a contributor to the Neuro-Inclusion Maturity Model for the Engineering Professors' Council, and a Graduate Engineering Engagement Programme Mentor for the Royal Academy of Engineering.
"I’ve been a guest lecturer at Ada, The National College for Digital Skills, and a demonstrator for some of my university modules."
Bradford's internship scheme
"I’m also working full time at SpaceKraft Ltd as Lead Software Engineer."
"I started through Bradford’s internship scheme in the summer after I finished my first year.
"It’s a company that researches and develops sensory solutions for people with complex needs, and it was my work here which inspired my final year project.
"An exciting aspect of my job is helping other Bradford students through the summer placement. Since I started, we’ve hired four other students who I manage in my team.
"My previous experience working as an Operations Manager definitely gave me the skills and confidence to take on a management role."
People with science degrees dream of the future; engineers build it.
My advice to others
"Engineering needs you."
"You can solve non-engineering problems with engineering thinking. The future of engineering is in sustainability and inclusivity, and we need more people in the industry."