BSc (Hons) Mathematics
Zoe House – BSc (Hons) Mathematics
Studying mathematics at degree level has enabled me to gain a deeper understanding of the subject, which I have found both challenging and stimulating. I was particularly attracted to the University of Portsmouth because it offered the opportunity of undertaking a placement year in industry, enabling me to experience the direct application of mathematical concepts and processes in a commercial environment.
I managed to obtain a placement between my second and third year with Brittany Ferries. I collected market research data at ports in the UK, France and Spain, which I then analysed using operational research, in order to improve the company’s commercial service.
My language skills were also improved significantly because I communicated with colleagues and customers in French on a daily basis. My analysis was deemed to be of sufficient value to be discussed by the company directors in order to facilitate strategic planning, and I have continued to work part-time for the company in my final year.
During my time at University, I have also enriched my experience by taking an active role in the University Music Society. There are so many opportunities at Portsmouth, so be sure to make the most of your time here!
Louise Smith – BSc (Hons) Mathematics
Maths and art were my main passions at school, but I felt that a mathematics degree would provide both a greater challenge and would lead to better career prospects. I attended several university open days and I liked the atmosphere at Portsmouth. I felt I would get the support I needed.
The BSc (Hons) Mathematics course has a choice of units in the first, second and final year. I opted to include a one-year industrial placement as part of my course. The experience will be invaluable in determining the best options in the final year of my mathematics degree. I hope to go into some area of finance, and would like to work for a large international company with the option to work abroad. A lot will depend on my experience during my placement year. Many companies have excellent graduate training schemes, and I would like to be accepted onto one of these.
I have made full use of my Personal Tutor and other help such as the Maths Café. This operates as a drop-in centre five days a week, led by an experienced mathematician, who helps with any mathematics or statistics problem, regardless of the degree you are studying. The small tutor groups which meet weekly throughout the first year are very helpful. Most lecturers have an open-door policy and are happy to help with any academic problems.
Lecture rooms and theatres are excellent and more than sufficient computing facilities. The library is a good place to study, it is open until midnight seven days a week during term time. There are many clubs and a variety of restaurants and cafes situated near the many University buildings.
Purple Door Careers and Recruitment has been very helpful in giving advice on my CV and applications for work placements. I spent my first year in Bateson Hall (a hall of residence) in a shared flat with four other girls, which gave me a ready group of friends who were studying a variety of courses. There are plenty of options with a number of different halls both catered and self-catered. I have now moved out of the hall and am sharing with a fellow student on my second year of studies.
Being in the centre of Portsmouth, the University is close to the many restaurants, bars and nightclubs situated at Gunwharf Quays and Albert Road. I enjoy eating out, going to the cinema and ten-pin bowling. There are a whole host of societies and clubs. I am a member of the Portsmouth Snooker Club.
The University is spread throughout the city rather than being based on a campus. Everyday life continues around you and I don’t feel isolated from the rest of the world. During the summer months the quay, pier, beach and parks offer a variety of activities and places to go. The Isle of Wight is only a ferry ride away and the Spinnaker Tower has the most amazing views over the city.