My Journey Through a Computer Science Masters During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic was an event that upended lives globally, throwing routines, ambitions, and plans into uncertainty. For me, it marked an unexpected turning point. While the world slowed down, I chose to speed up. Rather than letting the pause dictate my pace, I saw an opportunity to deepen my knowledge, sharpen my skills, and set a strong foundation for the future.
That’s when I decided to pursue an MSc in Computer Science at University College Dublin (UCD). What initially seemed like a daunting decision—returning to full-time education during a global crisis—turned out to be one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Over the course of a year, I navigated the complexities of remote learning, delved into software design, system architecture, and machine learning, and earned a 4.0 GPA. Today, as I prepare to join Microsoft as a software engineer, I reflect on the remarkable journey that brought me here.
The Decision to Pursue an MSc
The decision to start an MSc wasn’t part of some grand plan; it was born out of the stillness of the pandemic. As the world adjusted to lockdowns and remote work, I began to think about what I could do to make the most of this unexpected pause.
I had always been passionate about technology, and while I had a solid foundation, there were areas I wanted to explore further, like distributed systems and AI. The pandemic created the perfect window of opportunity. Without a commute or social obligations, I could dedicate myself fully to learning. UCD’s MSc in Computer Science stood out with its strong reputation and a curriculum that offered both breadth and depth.
Making the decision wasn’t easy. I wondered whether a fully remote program could offer the same level of engagement as an in-person experience. Would I miss out on building meaningful connections? Would I struggle to stay motivated in an isolated environment? Ultimately, I reminded myself that growth often comes from discomfort. If I could thrive in such unusual circumstances, I’d emerge stronger, more adaptable, and ready for anything.
The Remote Learning Experience
The first day of the program felt surreal. Instead of bustling lecture halls, I sat in front of my laptop, logging into a Zoom meeting. My “classroom” was a corner of my home office, my classmates were muted faces on a screen, and my professors were disembodied voices. Yet, despite the physical distance, a sense of community gradually took shape.
The program required a level of self-discipline I hadn’t previously cultivated. Without the structure of a physical campus, I had to create my own routine. Mornings were reserved for lectures, afternoons for assignments and projects, and evenings for catching up on readings or collaborating with classmates. Virtual study groups became a vital part of the experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie that transcended the digital barrier.
A Dive Into the Curriculum
One of the standout features of UCD’s MSc in Computer Science was its rich and varied curriculum. While the program was challenging, it was also deeply rewarding. I chose to focus on key areas that aligned with my interests and career goals: software design, system architecture, distributed systems, machine learning, and text analytics.
1. Software Design:
This was a cornerstone of the program. I loved exploring the nuances of clean code, SOLID principles, and design patterns. One particularly memorable project involved creating a scalable e-commerce system. Collaborating with teammates remotely was a lesson in adaptability, teaching me how to overcome communication barriers and work effectively in a virtual environment.
2. System Architecture and Distributed Systems:
These courses were instrumental in deepening my understanding of how large-scale systems operate. Distributed systems, in particular, fascinated me. I worked on a project that simulated a distributed messaging platform with fault tolerance and scalability—concepts I’d later see mirrored in the systems I’d go on to work with at Microsoft.
3. Machine Learning and Text Analytics:
Machine learning was where I stepped out of my comfort zone. From building neural networks in TensorFlow to exploring natural language processing (NLP), this area stretched my abilities in ways I didn’t expect. My capstone project involved creating a recommendation system, but it was text analytics that truly captured my imagination. Analyzing unstructured text data to uncover patterns and insights felt like peering into the hidden language of machines.
Challenges and Triumphs
The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Balancing coursework, projects, and the monotony of remote learning during a pandemic tested my resilience. There were moments of self-doubt, particularly during high-pressure deadlines. But these challenges were also opportunities for growth.
One key to my success was breaking down tasks into manageable pieces. Whether it was a complex machine learning assignment or a dense research paper on distributed systems, I focused on making consistent, incremental progress.
The 4.0 GPA I achieved at the end of the program wasn’t just a reflection of hard work—it symbolized my determination to make the most of a difficult year.
Bridging the Gap to Microsoft
As the MSc program came to an end, I began preparing for my next chapter: joining Microsoft as a software engineer. The skills I gained during the MSc—particularly in designing scalable systems and applying AI—aligned perfectly with the role.
The experience of collaborating remotely during the program also prepared me for the hybrid work environment that is now common in the tech industry. The ability to communicate effectively, stay organized, and deliver results in a virtual setting became invaluable.
Reflections
Looking back, my decision to pursue an MSc during the pandemic was one of the best choices I’ve ever made. It wasn’t just about earning a degree—it was about seizing the opportunity to grow during a time when the world felt stuck.
The lessons I learned at UCD go far beyond the technical. I learned how to adapt, how to persevere, and how to make meaningful connections despite physical distance. These are skills I’ll carry with me throughout my career.
As I step into my new role at Microsoft, I’m filled with gratitude for the journey that brought me here. The MSc at UCD wasn’t just a stepping stone—it was a transformative experience that shaped me into the engineer I am today.
If there’s one takeaway from my story, it’s this: growth is always possible, even in the most challenging circumstances. Whether you’re considering a degree, a career change, or a new project, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Sometimes, the best time to start is when the world feels like it’s standing still.