I have learnt so much throughout SURE project, about how to design an experiment, acquiring actionable results and how to turn those results into an a

For my dissertation project I created a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation for freediving. I was drawn to this project because of the potential work in breath work which is something I have practiced throughout my life in meditation. The most challenging part of the project was configuring the VR controllers to create a realistic thrust model as I had to apply my previous knowledge from physics A-level into a Unity project using C#. The VR tool I created can be used in many ways, for varying levels of experience in freediving; for beginner or first time divers there is a relaxation mode in which you will receive tips on how to complete a successful dive, music will play to induce relaxation and there will be visualisations of key biological changes throughout the dive. For those with more experience there is a training mode which is designed to enhance existing training techniques used on land in which you will receive no tips or visualisations and the microphone will detect your breathing to ensure you are properly training. Before starting this project I had used Unity just a few times, I had never used C# before and I didn't know much about freediving, therefore I learnt a lot from this project which I hope to apply to my future projects and work.

I have learnt so much throughout this project, about how to design an experiment, acquiring actionable results and how to turn those results into an academic paper.

Luca

MComp Computer Science with an Industrial Placement Year

Last summer I completed the SURE program, in which I created a program using genetic programming and linear regression to infer human-readable non-linear equations from a data set. This project was then applied to the context of Causal testing, which is a method of testing complex software systems that cannot be tested using conventional approaches. My supervisor and I created a research paper to demonstrate our findings and submitted it to the Causal Methods in Software Engineering workshop which is part of ACM International Conference on the Foundations of Software Engineering in Trondheim Norway. Our submission was accepted unconditionally and I will now be attending the conference with my supervisor as well as another lecturer at the end of June. I have learnt so much throughout this project, about how to design an experiment, acquiring actionable results and how to turn those results into an academic paper.

I am also part of 4 student committees this year from which I have learnt a lot about how to organise a team to create fun and engaging events and socials. I have gotten involved with many charity events such a the Bummit hitchhike, the charity abseil and the language buddies initiative, which I found particularly rewarding as you go and teach a language to primary school students around Sheffield. This year I have also committed myself to the Rowing club which I used to do when I was younger and after a three year break, my passion came back in a flash and I have really enjoyed the early starts and team environment.

What advice would you give to a younger student considering studying at Sheffield?

Get involved! There are so many different societies, sports, student projects and volunteering opportunities that it would be a shame to miss out.