George Essel studied Data Science here at London Met.
Tell us a little bit about yourself...
I grew up in Aba, a vibrant city located in the South East of Nigeria. It has been a wonderful place to grow up, with a rich cultural heritage and diverse community. I have fond memories of exploring the local parks, attending community events, and interacting with people from different backgrounds. My experiences growing up in Aba have played a significant role in shaping who I am today.
What brought you to London Met?
I was drawn to London Met University for several reasons. Firstly, the university has an excellent reputation for its academic programs, particularly in the field of Computing and Computer Science. The opportunity to learn from experienced professors and engage in practical, hands-on learning was highly appealing to me. London Met University is also located in one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities.
What did studying at London Met mean to you?
Studying at London Met University has been a transformative experience for me. It has provided me with a strong academic foundation, valuable skills, and countless opportunities for personal and professional growth. London Met has fostered an environment of diversity, inclusivity, and innovation.
It also, provided me with a supportive and nurturing environment. The dedicated faculty and staff have been instrumental in my academic journey, providing guidance, mentorship, and encouragement along the way.
And what's next in your career?
There are a couple of things I wish to realise. First of all, I’m preparing an industry-relevant curriculum to allow graduates to secure jobs easily. Also, I aim to obtain a PGCE in computing and my PhD degree in artificial intelligence for big data.
Can you tell us about your current role, if you're working now?
Currently, I am working as a voluntary Data Analyst for Haringey Council on a project. This opportunity came about through my student placement facilitated by my lecturer at London Met University. As a data analyst, my role involves collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data related to specific projects assigned by Haringey Council.
In this position, I gather data from various sources, ensure its accuracy and integrity, and conduct thorough analyses to extract meaningful insights. I use statistical techniques, data visualization tools, and analytical software to interpret the data and present it in a clear and concise manner. My goal is to provide valuable information and recommendations that can aid decision-making processes within the project.
What's next in your in career?
In my career, I am eager to continue honing my skills as a data analyst and further expand my knowledge in the field of data science. I aspire to work in a dynamic and innovative organization where I can contribute my analytical expertise to solve complex problems and drive data-informed decision-making. Additionally, I am open to exploring opportunities for professional growth, such as pursuing advanced certifications or higher academic qualifications, to enhance my career prospects and make a meaningful impact in the data-driven industry.
What is your biggest passion in life and where did that passion come from?
My biggest passion in life is analysis and problem-solving. I have always been intrigued by the power of data and its ability to uncover insights and drive decision-making. This passion developed during my time at London Met University, where I studied Business Computer Systems and gained a strong foundation in data analysis and related fields.
I am fascinated by the potential of data to provide valuable insights and drive meaningful change in various industries and sectors.
What drives you?
What drives me is a combination of intrinsic motivation, personal values, and a desire to make a positive impact in the world.
I am driven by a sense of intrinsic motivation. I have a natural curiosity and love for learning, which fuels my drive to explore new ideas, acquire knowledge, and continuously improve my skills. This internal drive pushes me to constantly seek challenges and push the boundaries of what I can achieve.
What’s the proudest moment in your life?
The proudest moment in my life was when I successfully completed my undergraduate degree. It was a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and overcoming various challenges. I faced numerous obstacles along the way, but I persevered and remained committed to my education. Completing my degree symbolized not only academic achievement but also personal growth and development. It was a proud moment because it validated the effort I had put into my studies and the sacrifices I had made. It represented a milestone in my journey towards pursuing my passions and aspirations.
Tell us a bit about your interests and why they're important to you?
Outside of uni, I have a passion for sci-fi movies, video games, and traveling. These interests allow me to immerse myself in captivating fictional worlds, engage in interactive storytelling, and explore new places and cultures. They provide me with entertainment, relaxation, and opportunities for personal growth. Whether it's watching an epic space adventure, embarking on virtual quests, or experiencing the wonders of different countries, these interests add excitement, inspiration, and fulfillment to my life.
Do you have any advice for anyone else considering studying at London Met?
Absolutely! If you're considering studying at London Met, my advice would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Make the most of the diverse academic programs, resources, and support available at the university. Engage actively in extracurricular activities, join student societies, and participate in networking events to expand your horizons and build valuable connections. Take advantage of the knowledgeable faculty and seek their guidance and mentorship. Lastly, be proactive in your learning journey, stay organized, and remain committed to your goals. London Met offers a rich educational experience, and with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve great things.
What surprised you about London Met?
One thing that surprised me about London Met was the diversity and inclusivity of the student community. Coming from a different cultural background, I was amazed by the multicultural environment and the opportunities to interact with students from various countries and cultures. This diversity enriched my learning experience and provided me with a broader perspective on different subjects and issues. Additionally, I was pleasantly surprised by the supportive and approachable nature of the teaching staff. They were always available to provide guidance and support, and their passion for their respective fields of expertise was evident in their teaching. This created a positive and nurturing learning environment that greatly contributed to my academic journey at London Met.
How were other students and the teaching staff on your course?
The other students on the course were diverse and talented, coming from various backgrounds and experiences. It was inspiring to collaborate and learn from them, as we shared ideas, worked on projects together, and supported each other throughout the program. The teaching staff were knowledgeable, supportive, and dedicated to our learning. They created a conducive learning environment, encouraged critical thinking, and provided valuable guidance and feedback. Although we may have gone our separate ways after graduation, I am still in touch with some of my fellow classmates and maintain a professional network with the teaching staff, keeping us connected and updated on our respective journeys.
Did you do any work experience as part of the course? Can you tell us more and what the challenges and highlights were?
During my placement, I worked as a data analyst at Haringey Council, thanks to the support of my lecturer who helped secure the opportunity. Working directly under my lecturer on the project allowed me to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting. I collected, cleaned, and analysed data to derive insights, gaining practical experience in data analysis. The guidance and feedback provided by my lecturer were invaluable in refining my skills. This placement provided a transformative experience, allowing me to apply my knowledge, develop practical skills, and lay a solid foundation for my future career as a data analyst. I am grateful for the opportunity and confident in the impact it will have on my professional growth.
Can you explain more about your final project?
For my final project, I worked on developing an inventory management system software. The aim of the project was to create a user-friendly and efficient system that would streamline inventory management processes for businesses. I started by conducting thorough research to understand the specific needs and challenges faced by businesses in managing their inventory. Based on this research, I designed and implemented a software solution that allowed businesses to track and manage their inventory in a centralized and automated manner. The software included features such as real-time inventory tracking, order management, and reporting functionalities. Throughout the project, I collaborated with my supervisor and received guidance on best practices in software development. The final outcome of the project was a functional and robust inventory management system that met the requirements and expectations set at the beginning of the project.
Is there anything else we didn't ask about that you'd like to mention?
Yes, there is one more thing I would like to mention. During my time at London Met, I had the opportunity to engage in a student placement with Haringey Council as a voluntary data analyst. This experience was instrumental in shaping my skills and providing practical exposure to real-world projects. I am grateful for the support and guidance I received from my lecturer and the university in securing this placement. It allowed me to apply my knowledge, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain valuable insights into the field of data analysis. It was a truly enriching experience that further reinforced my passion for this field of work.
"One thing that surprised me about London Met was the diversity and inclusivity of the student community. Coming from a different cultural background, I was amazed by the multicultural environment and the opportunities to interact with students from various countries and cultures."