Computing students from the University of West London attend a session at Sky Studios
Computing students from the University of West London attend a session at Sky Studios

Sky high: Computing students get a taste of media company’s technology careers

Intro

Early in February, 18 University of West London second and final year students from the School of Computing and Engineering (SCE) spent half a day at Sky’s Osterley campus to visit its data and technical teams.

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The students, who are studying on Computer Science, Cyber Security, Creative Computing, Information Technology and Information Technology and Management for Business courses at SCE, were given a tour of Sky Studios during live streaming sessions, as well as taking part in a careers talk and completing a quiz about the company.

The day wrapped up with an inspiring panel of Sky’s data and tech teams who highlighted their careers to date before taking part in an interactive Q&A.

Those on the panel included Sky’s Data Visualisation Lead Haider Al-Saraf and Head of Tech D&I Partnerships & People Change Sharon Wallace. Also taking part were Director of Data Science & Analysis Elena Tampieri, Senior Data Scientist Dav Jones, Data & Analytics Graduate Aaron Hickman and Technology Graduate Riya Kapoor.

Computing students from the University of West London attend a session at Sky Studios

Senior Lecturer and Computer Science Course Leader Dr Sama Aleshaiker said,

We were thoroughly impressed by the experience and the opportunities presented at Sky. The data and tech teams highlighted technologies being used there and their connection to our course modules and assessments. It was also fantastic to have the career team outline the range of graduate and placement programmes available for students.”

Final year BSc Computer Science student Rebecca Murray Birbaum found the visit inspirational:

It was great to have an insight into how a company like Sky works. Our guide was welcoming and informative, he is clearly thriving working there.”

Computing students from the University of West London attend a session at Sky Studios

Final year BSc Information Technology student Kennedy Zvenyika added,

My key takeaway was that curiosity and willingness to learn really are priceless for organisations in a rapidly evolving world. We need to always be open to learning, never be afraid to try. You may fail, but you never fail on effort."

Computer Science student Ramiro Yepez said,

Stepping into Sky Studios was a unique journey into the world of media and entertainment. The team's dedication, passion and enthusiasm was contagious, and it made the whole experience engaging and interesting. A big thank you to everyone who made this possible!"

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