Keniel Peart Msc Artificial Intelligence
I am most proud of the friends that I have been able to meet from different countries around the world and being able to learn about their cultures and customs.
Why did you choose to study at the University of Southampton?
The highly competitive and rigorous Artificial Intelligence program was a key pulling factor for me when deciding on the school to attend. The course structure at the University of Southampton provided a holistic set of modules that were interesting and aligned with my future goals. In addition to the course, I wanted to be a part of a community that challenges the status quo and champions inclusivity and accessibility. Furthermore, I believe the university would be an ideal space to grow and explore various cultures and ideas. These reasons also steered me into choosing the University of Southampton. Finally, I wanted to find a city that was quieter than a bustling city like London.
What do you enjoy the most about living in Southampton or Winchester?
I truly enjoy the amazing green spaces all around the city. One of my favourite things in Southampton is going to Mayflower Park and enjoying the sun and ice cream.
Have you undertaken any extracurricular activities? How have they enhanced your experience?
Though not a very active member, I attend the Southampton AI Society. The society sometimes invites industry players to discuss various topics related to Artificial Intelligence; this has been a highlight of my journey here as the experience and advice they provide is invaluable. I am the Student Representative for my course, which has allowed me to liaise on behalf of my peers with lecturers and administrators. This has allowed me to be a student leader, meet new people, and make friends.
What do you think you have gained from your degree that you wouldn’t have developed without it?
The course allowed me to improve my writing skills (academic papers and reports) and my overall knowledge base in Artificial Intelligence. Moreover, the programme acted as an environment where I could safely explore my weaknesses and strengths and helped me have a clearer picture of my career path.
What are you most proud of from your time at the University of Southampton so far?
I am most proud of the friends that I have been able to meet from different countries around the world and being able to learn about their cultures and customs.
What has been the hardest aspect of studying in another country? How has the University helped you overcome the challenges?
Being away from my family and friends has been the most challenging part of studying in the UK. I had to learn to fend for myself, especially as it related to cooking, something I hadn't done before. In terms of academic life, teaching methods are different, and I needed some adaptation time, but again, I was lucky to have good friends; who were a pillar of support and guidance
How have the people you have met at Southampton changed your life?
The friends I made have been an instrumental support mechanism for me while here. There were instances when the assignments and the pressure became unbearable. However, my friends helped me to realign and remain calm.
What will you do with your degree after you have finished your studies?
My goal is to use this degree as the foundation for pursuing and completing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, specializing in AI for Health. My dream career is to be an AI researcher.
Can you sum up your University of Southampton experience in three words?
Fulfilling, Challenging, Insightful
What is the name of the scholarship or bursary you have received?
Chevening Scholarship
How has the funding enhanced your experience as a student at the University of Southampton?
Being a Chevener has boosted my self-confidence inexplicably and made me a better version of myself. In addition, the Chevening community has allowed me to attend workshops and network with likeminded individuals from around the world who share the goal of being change-makers for their respective countries. Other than the community nature of the scholarship, the monthly allowance provided has allowed me to focus entirely on school and has also allowed me to travel and experience places around the UK that I have longed to see.