Liberty IT Announces 2010 Recipients of Prestigious Scholarship in Computer Science

December 21, 2009

 

 

Liberty IT Announces 2010 Recipients of Prestigious Scholarship in Computer Science
December 200

Liberty Information Technology Ltd recently announced the recipients of the Liberty IT 2010 Undergraduate Scholarship for Computer Science in Northern Ireland.

Established in conjunction with the School of Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Queens University Belfast and the School of Computing and Mathematics at University of Ulster, the scholarship aims to increase enrolment and retention of students in computer science and to increase the availability of well educated and skilled employees in this technical area.

Christine Smyth, an MEng student in Computer Science at Queens University, Belfast and Scott McGarry, who is studying for a BSc Computer Science at University if Ulster Jordanstown, have been awarded the £1,000 annual scholarship which includes a eight week placement at the end of their first year of study, a guaranteed placement year during their undergraduate programme and a potential Associate Software Engineer position with Liberty IT upon successful completion of their degree.
Commenting on receiving the scholarship, Christine said: "I chose Computer Science as my degree for a number of reasons, the presence of a computer in my home from a young age, sparked an interest in computers. This, coupled with my passion for learning, and my love for mathematics as well as ICT drew me to a course which involved both of these aspects. I ultimately made the decision to do Computer Science because of the wealth of opportunity in Northern Ireland to work with companies doing something that I find fun and challenging. Receiving this bursary means the freedom to study without the pressures of worrying about a job both in the placement year and once I graduate. This bursary also helps to give my studies a focus, challenging me to achieve my full potential".

Scott McGarry said: "I have always had a keen interest in computers from an early age. My studies have enhanced my knowledge through the years making this interest grow. I see the IT industry as an ever growing sector in the foreseeable future with lots of opportunities for innovation. First of all I feel very privileged to be chosen for this opportunity. The LIT bursary has given me an excellent foundation for my aspirations in the IT sector. The chance to earn a job with a company like Liberty IT has gave me extra confidence and motivation to work harder. Earning vital experience not only in my placement year but also during summer placements throughout my course, will fully prepare me for full time employment with the company after graduation".

Pictured are Christine Smyth and Scott McGarry receiving their scholarships from Nick Gray, Senior Manager, Liberty IT.