Looking to refine his skillset in technology, Mahdi enrolled on the Digital Production, Design and Development T Level at Uxbridge College. After exploring the website and YouTube channel, he felt the college would be a perfect fit for him.
A sense of freedom
When asked about his time at Uxbridge College, Mahdi praised the sense of freedom college life gave him. Unlike standard sixth form timetables, his flexible schedule allowed him to work towards projects, extracurricular activities and networking events.
Uxbridge College made Mahdi feel safe, relaxed and comfortable. Working with interpreters fluent in BSL, Mahdi was able to attend his lessons without communication barriers, helping him feel confident in his studies.
Innovation, hard work, creativity
During his six-week industry placement at Cisco Systems Ltd, Mahdi impressed tutors and employers with his innovation, hard work and creativity. Alongside developing his knowledge of cybersecurity and leadership skills, a highlight was designing a panic button system for Transport for London, earning him second place in a competition.
Now entering the second year of his degree at Brunel University, Mahdi is working towards a career building inclusive and accessible technology.
Inspired by his industry placement, he hopes to pursue opportunities at companies such as Cisco, TFL or Amazon, while also exploring possibilities overseas in the US or Canada.
To support these goals, alongside being fluent in BSL, Mahdi is currently learning ASL.
It's okay to be nervous
Mahdi encourages prospective students to consider studying at Uxbridge College, praising both the “excellent courses” and the opportunities it provides for young learners and their futures.
His advice for anyone taking the next step in education is: "This is a brand new chapter for you and it's okay to be nervous. Take a deep breath and know you will definitely find your way. You’ve got this!”