Katie Roberts

I wanted to go into computer security as it’s such a growing area within the UK and currently there are limited women within technology and felt I could take the challenge of working within this sector. On leaving school I worked in retail for five years before deciding my career path and joining Northumbria University and completing my Computer Forensics degree to fulfil my technology dream.

What are you doing now?

I am now working for an IT company called UKFast in central Manchester. Here I have managed to further my university learning and continue to develop my career within information security.

What was it about Northumbria that made you decide to study here?

Newcastle itself is an amazing city and like a home from home. Northumbria University offered great opportunities for the sector I wanted to study as well as great sporting facilities and teams to allow me to combine my studies with my passion for sport.

What was it like studying at Northumbria?

Studying at Northumbria was amazing, the course was filled with variety. We did a combination of individual and team work. The work was always delivered in workshops or lectures with us being exposed to forensic kit from day one and allowing us to gain skills ready for the working world.

How connected was your course with industry?

Although I did not undertake a placement year, we did have guest speakers and weekly lectures from a professional within the computer forensic sector, allowing us to gain real life experience.

What was the best thing about your course?

The best thing about the course was the variety given. We were exposed to many different things which helped when applying for jobs.

How did studying at Northumbria help you achieve your career goals/ give your career an edge?

Northumbria not only gave me the degree I needed to gain my dream career it also gave me the confidence and life skills needed to really make an impact within my job role. I developed as a person whilst at Northumbria and learned to stand on my own two feet.

Which skills/knowledge did you learn on your course that you use most now throughout your career?

I learnt the basic forensic skills needed for my job role.

What did you enjoy most about your time at Northumbria University?

I enjoyed meeting new people and met friends for life whilst gaining a degree.

What advice would you give somebody who is considering studying at Northumbria?

Make the most of your time at Northumbria it really is the best time of your life and is over so fast. Also join a sports team - best nights you’ll have as well.

How would you describe your time at Northumbria in three words?

Fun, developing and life-changing.