Hamzah Salem

Technical Analyst, Goldman Sachs 
BSc Artificial Intelligence with Computer Science with a Year in Industry (2013)

While studying at the University, I most enjoyed all the opportunities to get involved with the school and its friendly staff.

I am currently working for Goldman Sachs investment bank. My main role as a Technical Analyst is to develop applications.

What is the best thing about what you are doing now?
I enjoy the opportunity to work with people across the globe, collaborating, developing and sharing ideas together.

To what extent did your degree set you up for your career?
My degree consisted of theory and practical studies, as well as encouraging both team and individual work. I believe this prepared me for a range of work environments and for the career I want.

What were the most positive and also the most challenging aspects of your course?
The most challenging aspect of my course was my final year project. The final year project is a critical part of the course, and as such, carries a lot of marks. My project had to be impressive, unique, and incorporate many aspects I had learnt on my course.

What advice would you give to current students studying your course?
I would advise students to think about their final year projects before the academic year begins.

What was your favourite thing about the university?
While studying at the University, I most enjoyed the opportunities to get involved with the school and its friendly staff.

What is your best memory of your time at Birmingham?
My best memory at the University was working in the robot labs with my team on all the fun challenges. Due to the nature of the module, work had to be done on a robot and involved overcoming the physical challenges of working with hardware.