Rubie’s passion for technology inspired her PhD Computing research and her dreams to change the world
5 min read
I arrived at ºÚÁϳԹÏyoung, unsure and uncertain about my career. Now, I feel confident, decisive and motivated.
This is largely because of the support I've received from all the services in the University, both academic and non-academic. ºÚÁϳԹÏhas greatly influenced the adult I have become.
Pursuing a passion for technology
Before starting my PhD, I did a Computing foundation degree at International College ºÚÁϳԹÏ(ICP) and moved on to complete my undergraduate degree in BSc (Hons) Software Engineering. I had amazing support systems around me at ºÚÁϳԹÏduring my undergraduate degree. My supervisors, the University services and the friendships I developed from the society I joined via the Students’ Union, all made it easier to make the decision to continue to a postgraduate degree.
I also really enjoyed researching during my final year project and was convinced that my research could benefit real-world problems. In 2019, I got the opportunity to present my undergraduate research at the Houses of Parliament. It was an informative and enlightening day, and the feedback I received from that day helped shape my research further. So I took the challenge and applied to continue my research as a PhD student. ºÚÁϳԹÏis also highly ranked for PhD Computing – so this greatly influenced my decision to continue to study here.
Everything about technology is unique and fascinating. Pursuing a postgraduate degree in technology equips me with the skills, network and information to solve real problems that affect individuals.
I feel confident, decisive and motivated. This is largely because of the support I've received from all the services in the University, both academic and non-academic. ºÚÁϳԹÏhas greatly influenced the adult I have become.
Rubie Targema-Takema, PhD Computing
Living and working in Portsmouth
I wanted a medium-sized city with proximity to places and I got exactly that in Portsmouth. I get to walk everywhere without spending much money on transportation. The seaside and beach was another factor that influenced my decision.
I have a structured day/week and I try to give at least three hours minimum to study daily. Aside from my studies, I work with the Information Services department on a flexible basis, providing IT support to staff and students around the University. In 2018, I was nominated for a volunteering award for my work with a social enterprise called Toucan diversity, which I found through the Careers and Employability Service. I also meet three times a week with the International Fellowship of Christian Students (IFCS), a society I joined via the Students' Union, and I run a blog and podcast. When it’s not too cold, I play basketball.
Planning to lead the future
I would love to develop and influence effective educational technology policies for countries. I hope to also sit on advisory boards and help educational institutions and companies make better choices with regards to the adoption and integration of technology. I also hope to one day run a vocational and leadership academy where underprivileged children in Nigeria can learn world-class vocations and leadership skills.
Everything about technology is unique and fascinating. Pursuing a postgraduate degree in technology equips me with the skills, network and information to solve real problems that affect individuals.
Rubie Targema-Takema, PhD Computing