From Türkiye to Huddersfield: My Journey Studying AI

Hanimsah Tezel

BSc Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence

Hi my name is Hanimsah, and I am a final-year international student from Türkiye.

Leaving home to study abroad is both exciting and a little overwhelming. When I moved from Türkiye to the UK to study at the University of Huddersfield, I knew it would be a big step, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Now, in the final months of my Computer Science with Artificial Intelligence degree, I can say without hesitation that this experience has changed me in ways I never expected. It has not only improved my technical skills but also changed how I think about myself, my goals, and my place in the world.

I still remember how strange and new everything felt when I first arrived in Huddersfield: a new town, a new climate, and a different pace of life. But new places have a way of feeling like home when you stay open to them, and gradually, Huddersfield did.

Why Huddersfield?

I chose the University of Huddersfield for its strong focus on hands-on, practical learning. As someone who had already been passionate about artificial intelligence long before starting my degree, I wanted a programme that would go beyond theory and focus on solving real problems. Huddersfield delivered that and more. The lecturers encouraged curiosity, the environment rewarded effort, and I quickly grew in both confidence and ability.

Content image — Huddersfield Town Centre

Adjusting to the UK…

Of course, there were adjustments. The weather takes some getting used to. Accents, social customs, and the pace of everyday life all felt new at first. But the university’s friendly and supportive atmosphere made the transition much easier. Meeting students from different backgrounds helped me settle in quickly, and what could have felt overwhelming soon became genuinely exciting.

Embracing University Life

Getting involved in university life became one of the most valuable parts of my experience. Since 2024, I have served as President of the Turkish Society, organising events that bring Turkish students together while also introducing our culture to the wider university community. I also volunteer as a Course Representative, sharing student feedback and representing my classmates’ views. As both a Traditional and International Student Ambassador, I have supported online and in-person university events and shared my experience with prospective students.

Getting Elected

One experience that stands out is being elected as one of five NUS representatives in the university elections. This role gave me the opportunity to attend a two-day NUS conference in Blackpool, where students from across the UK discussed key issues, shared ideas, and represented their universities. It was a valuable experience that showed me how student voices can contribute to meaningful change.

Networking Events

Alongside my studies, I have tried to stay closely connected to the industry I plan to work in. I regularly attend Manchester Digital meetups and career fairs in Manchester and Leeds, where speaking with professionals reminds me how quickly the technology field evolves. Mentorship programmes have also given me insight into what working in tech looks like day to day. Through LinkedIn, I have built a network of professionals whose work I find genuinely inspiring.

Working Part-Time

I also work part-time at a Turkish restaurant called Istanbul in Huddersfield town centre. Balancing work and university life has helped me develop strong time management, communication, and teamwork skills. At the same time, I continue learning independently by exploring new topics in artificial intelligence and following developments in the field. Combining academic learning, self-study, and practical experience has helped me grow both personally and professionally.

What's Next???

As graduation approaches, I find myself reflecting on how much this journey has shaped me. I am proud of the technical skills I have developed in areas such as machine learning and data science. But I am equally proud of the personal growth: the confidence to take on leadership roles, the willingness to step forward, and the ability to adapt to new challenges.

After graduation, I plan to work as an AI Engineer or Data Scientist. Artificial intelligence is transforming industries around the world, and I am excited to contribute to that transformation by working on projects that create meaningful impact. My time at Huddersfield has prepared me well for this next step, and I am excited to see where this journey in AI will take me.

My Advice to Prospective Students

If you are considering studying abroad, my advice is simple: get involved. Join societies, attend events, meet new people, and step outside your comfort zone. University is not just about earning a degree. It is about the experiences you gain, the people you meet, and the person you become along the way.