My journey into the world of AI

I’m Mariam Gugushvili, a Georgian national, pursuing an MSc in Applied Artificial Intelligence (AAI) at Cranfield University this year.

Before coming to Cranfield, I honed my skills in computer engineering at San Diego State University, Georgia. My practical experience as a data engineer solidified my passion for data management and its pivotal role in various industries.

What initially sparked my interest in artificial intelligence (AI)? It was the allure of the unseen magic behind intelligent systems. As a data engineer, I was privileged to be part of the foundation supporting these systems. I was driven by the desire to delve deeper into the entire AI pipeline and explore the limits of what’s possible. Plus, as a frequent Siri user, I was curious about the reasons behind its occasional mishaps. Understanding the underlying technology would help me appreciate its capabilities and limitations.

I chose the AAI MSc programme for several reasons. The comprehensive curriculum, coupled with the expertise of the faculty, perfectly aligned with my academic and career goals. The generous scholarship from the British Council made pursuing this opportunity even more enticing. And of course, the prospect of living and studying in the UK was incredibly exciting.

Discovering the best of Cranfield

So far, my experience at Cranfield has been fantastic. The deep learning module has been particularly captivating, and applying these concepts to real-world projects like object recognition and robotics has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve also enjoyed exploring the campus, from the impressive library to the airport. The one-week-on, one-week-off schedule is ideal, allowing me to focus on my studies and explore the UK during my off weeks.

The campus itself is cosy and intimate, with living areas conveniently located near the lecture halls. The nearby village is charming, especially the 13th-century church. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have amazing roommates who’ve made my transition smooth. Our evenings are filled with laughter, tea, and sharing stories. The diversity on campus is truly inspiring. While I sometimes miss Georgian culture, I love sharing my heritage with others. It’s heartwarming to see how many people are familiar with Georgia through sports and culture.

A typical day for me starts with a refreshing morning walk around the football field. After a quick breakfast, I head to my classes. Lunchtime often finds me at Reggie’s or the CSA. Post-lunch, I usually hit the gym or practice with the music society. An interesting fact about me is that before starting on my MSc journey, I dedicated 12 years to classical piano, performing professionally.

Evenings are spent exploring the campus or relaxing with my roommates.

Charting a course in AI

After completing my MSc, I plan to return to Georgia and gain practical experience as a data scientist. Ultimately, I aspire to pursue a PhD in big data and establish my own AI-focused startup.

To anyone considering a career in AI, I recommend building a strong foundation in mathematics and programming. Practical experience is crucial, so consider personal projects and internships. Most importantly, stay curious, explore new developments, and network with other professionals.