I learnt about concepts, research and experimental techniques that were completely new to me!

Why did you choose to study the Cognitive and Computational Neuroscience MSc?

As part of my undergraduate medicine course I had the opportunity to complete a research attachment where we modelled the blood flow in the human body computationally. This sparked an interest in computational modelling, and as I find neuroscience and neurology fascinating, this MSc felt like the perfect course to link these two interests and explore further possibilities with modelling physiology computationally.

What made you decide to study at the University of Sheffield?

I love the composition of Sheffield, and how it doesn't feel like a large, grey city, but more a collection of places with their own unique character. Everyone is really friendly, and after having an enjoyable 3 years on my undergraduate, I wanted to stay in the same place for my MSc due to the ties I have to the university and in the wider musical community. I'm still not used to the hills yet though!

What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?

I found the content on the course incredibly interesting to study. The lecturers were all really passionate about their modules, which really came across in the quality of teaching. I enjoyed working on my dissertation project researching the stochastic resonance effect in touch, a topical and evolving field. Socially, it was an incredible experience - I was lucky enough to make a wonderful group of friends from a diverse range of subject fields and from all around the world who I very much hope to keep in touch with. It was also lovely to be a part of the Psychology department, where I felt strongly supported and that my supervisor and the lecturers had a genuine interest in my studies and wellbeing. 

What skills have you developed during your course?

I was able to learn about neuroscience and neurophysiology to a much greater degree than what I previously studied, including recent developments in the field which helped link the teaching to its real world application. My most improved skill has been the significant development to my programming skills, now reaching a stage where I am comfortable working independently on modelling projects. Additionally, I learned about concepts, research, and experimental techniques that I had no idea even existed before I started the MSc, so it was a brilliant experience discovering something completely new!

What are you planning to do next?

Now I've completed my MSc I have returned to complete the last two years of my undergraduate degree in medicine, and I am hoping to keep in touch with my MSc supervisor and the Active Touch Lab to be able to continue working alongside them in this field.

What would you say to a student thinking about studying this course at Sheffield?

I would absolutely recommend the course to anyone considering it -  the subject matter is fascinating, the department staff are supportive and nurturing, and the city is an incredible place to be with lots of excitement and something for everyone.