This cohort of London students was the first group to join me at the new digital campus in London, amidst the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic with all its challenges. They have been studying for three years since then. As their lecturer, I have spent days and even nights engaging with them, both face to face and online, as I was representing the entire university for them, serving as a technical specialist, tutor, mentor, and course leader to name a few. Over time, they have become more like a family to me rather than just learners. I take great pride in their hardworking and passionate nature. It’s not so frequent for an academic to witness so many graduations during their professional career. Last week, one of my graduation ceremonies took place last week, unfortunately, I had to miss it due to work commitments and an overseas conference. Nevertheless, I’m extremely proud to see how concerned I was about their journey in the beginning has now transformed into satisfaction with the quality of education they have received and the bright future that awaits them.

The same feeling, and even more, applies to my PG students – a full cohort comprising 100% international students whose tuition fees, in my personal opinion, are unfairly high. These students have dedicated a long time planning and saving for their education in a new country, facing cultural and language constraints. All they have is hope and a strong work ethic, pursuing a prosperous future. As someone with a similar life story, I genuinely understand the challenges they face, and I am incredibly proud of their achievements today! Congratulations to all the graduates of the Class of 2023 from SUL Computing!