Carmen Lam

Carmen Lam is a Lecturer within the Department of Computer Science. With an array of roles and responsibilities from teaching two of our master’s modules in Data Science Algorithms and Tools and Applied Data Science with Python, alongside being the MSc Project Coordinator, Carmen is instrumental in creating the valuable and engaging experiences for our master’s students in Computer Science.

“Beyond formal teaching and supervision, I regularly engage with our master’s students through both structured activities and informal conversations. These interactions help me understand their experiences, identify any issues related to teaching quality, and ensure that they receive timely academic and pastoral support.”

With a proudly diverse, collaborative and supportive community, our students stem from a wide range of academic and professional background, creating a high-energy learning environment with a thirst for learning from each other.

We pride ourselves on providing an excellent support system. There is significant support from peers, with students all willing to share ideas and discuss challenges, whether during practical work or even informally over a coffee. Carman has helped foster an environment where students can apply what they learn, both in class and through independent research, which then creates a positive academic atmosphere.

“The Department takes a holistic approach to support, understanding that each student is unique. We recognise that students come from diverse backgrounds and may face different kinds of transitions when starting postgraduate study.”

For students who have just completed their undergraduate degree, we’re aware the shift to master’s level study can feel quite significant. The pace is faster, the workload is heavier and students are expected to work more independently. To support students throughout this transition we:

• Maintain an open-door culture
  This is so students can feel comfortable approaching module convenors, supervisors, or programme staff whenever they need clarification or reassurance.
• Encourage informal check-ins
  This allows us to pick up on earlier signs of workload pressure, difficulties with study habits, or challenges adjusting to the new academic standards.
• Offer professional guidance
  We offer guidance on time-management, planning and balancing workload. This helps students establish effective and healthy routines suited to the more intensive pace of post graduate study.

Students coming back to study after working for several years often have very different needs. Although they bring valuable professional experience, they may feel less confident with academic writing, new technologies or adjusting to full-time study. To support them we offer:

• Supplementary independent learning resources
  We provide opportunities for students to refresh or catch up with key technologies and methods use in our modules.
• Training with academic communication
  Particularly offered throughout the dissertation module, to help students regain confidence in formal academic communication.
• Encouragement to draw on experience
  By helping students to connect real world insights to academic topics this helps support them in developing dissertation projects that align with their career goals.

“Many students begin their master’s feeling uneasy about the academic expectations, their skills, or about how they will balance the demands of postgraduate study. Being part of that journey, and watching them develop into independent, capable researchers, is incredibly rewarding."

The depth of student engagement also makes for a wonderful teaching experience. Master’s students are curious, motivated and eager to explore more critical and independent ideas. 

“Teaching at this level feels more like a partnership - I’m guiding students as they develop their own perspectives, interests and research ambitions”.

Carmen also shared her memory of a student who had initially been quite uncertain about their abilities, questioning their ideas and feeling overwhelmed by the research process. Over the coming months, their confidence grew which enabled them to produce a thoughtful and well-designed project that they were genuinely proud of. 

“When they submitted their dissertation, they told me it was the first time they truly felt like a researcher. Moments like that remind me how transformative this year can be for students, and how meaningful it is to play a part in that journey.”

Although it is natural to feel uncertain on taking your next big step in life, many students start out in a similar place. Carmen encourages prospective students to think about their aspirations and how they want to grow. With the potential to deepen knowledge, build confidence in new skills and explore areas of interest in more depth, a master’s can help open doors to new career opportunities.

Most importantly, you don’t need to have everything figured out before you start. What matters is your curiosity, your willingness to learn, and your interest in developing your skills. If those are there, a master’s can be an incredibly rewarding and transformative experience, and we’re here to support you at every step.

Explore master’s courses in the Department of Computer Science.