Hamish's Story

Driven by a lifelong curiosity about how technology connects people, MEng (Hons) Software Engineering student Hamish came to Heriot-Watt to explore what once felt like “magic.” This is his story.

Why did you decide to study Computer Science at Heriot-Watt, and how have you found it so far?

What originally drew me to computer science was a natural curiosity I’ve had since I was young. At the time, things like artificial intelligence weren’t really mainstream, they weren’t the buzzwords they are now, but I was already fascinated by technology and how it connects people.

I remember seeing my mum use a phone for the first time to contact relatives in England, just instantly, and I was completely captivated. It felt almost magical. Growing up in the remote countryside of Aberdeenshire, I didn’t have the same level of exposure to technology that you might get in a city, but that almost made it more exciting.

I still had laptops and PCs, but the idea of technology — what it could do, how it worked, and how it could bring people together — really stuck with me. That curiosity naturally led me towards computer science and software engineering, and choosing Heriot-Watt felt like the right place to explore that properly.

What’s been a standout moment for you during your time at university?

One of the most memorable things for me has been seeing concepts I was curious about for years finally start to make sense.

Things I once thought were almost abstract or futuristic suddenly became understandable, not just what they do, but how they work. That moment where curiosity turns into understanding is incredibly rewarding, and it’s something I’ve experienced a lot during my time here.

It’s when you realise you’re not just learning theory, you’re learning how the world actually functions behind the scenes.

How would you describe the learning environment here at Heriot-Watt? What makes it different from other places you've studied?

The learning environment at Heriot-Watt really encourages curiosity. It’s a place where being genuinely interested in something is valued, and where you’re supported in exploring ideas deeply rather than just memorising content.

Coming from a more remote background, being in an environment where technology, innovation, and academic support are all so accessible has been really impactful.

It feels like a place where ideas are taken seriously and where students are encouraged to think critically about the future of technology.

What part of the Computer Science programme do you enjoy most, and what makes it exciting for you?

What excites me most is that computer science gives you the tools to understand and build the systems that shape modern life.

Things that once felt mysterious, like communication, automation, and intelligence in machines, become something you can work with and improve.

For someone who’s always been fascinated by technology from a young age, being able to explore those ideas in depth is incredibly motivating.

Is there anything you want to tell us about your programme or experience that we have missed?

For me, computer science at Heriot-Watt has been about turning curiosity into understanding. Coming from a quieter, more remote place, being surrounded by innovation and technology has been inspiring, and it’s confirmed that this is exactly where I’m meant to be.