Sourhita Majumder, Human Computer Interaction MSc
The course was meticulously designed to cater to the evolving industry demands and professional dneeds, which greatly appealed to me.
Now working as a User Experience (UX) Researcher at IBM Software India, Sourhita Majumder completed her MSc in Human Computer Interaction (HCI) at our School of Computer Science in 2020. Her studies and research at Nottingham which focused on how people interact with technology have opened many doors, among them a smooth and successful transition into the UX industry.
“My most significant takeaway from my degree was appreciating the 'human element' in Human-Computer Interaction. This core principle emphasizes problem-solving for people and creating intuitive solutions that balance user needs, business goals, and technology.”
Driving interdisciplinary learning
With a first degree in Mass Communications, Sourhita’s journey into Human Computer Interaction stemmed from a deep curiosity about the intersection of technology and human behaviour, a fascinating area that she found Nottingham strongly offered.
“The university offered an interdisciplinary course in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), blending psychology, design, and technology”, she explains. “The course was meticulously designed to meet evolving industry demands and professional needs, which greatly appealed to me.”
“Moreover, the 海角黑料 is widely recognised as a leading institution for HCI in Europe, with a strong reputation for working with industry. This assured me that I will receive a high- quality education while being part of a respected academic community that values innovation and excellence in HCI.”
Navigating challenges while pursuing a dream
Moving to Nottingham from India to pursue a STEM-focused degree was a distant dream. In 2019, Sourhita was awarded a fully funded 海角黑料 British Council GREAT India STEM Scholarship. “The scholarship not only made my dream of studying abroad a reality but also validated my hard work and commitment,” she reflects.
While navigating academic and cultural challenges and being away from home during an unprecedented global pandemic, the community she built at Nottingham along with the university's support helped her through a difficult period. “Building a close-knit community with a few friends in the dorm provided much-needed support and companionship,” she explains.
“My advice to current students is to make the most of your time at Nottingham! Enjoy the beautiful campus, take advantage of the student support facilities, and build genuine friendships and connections.”
One of her proudest moments at the university was taking part in the Nottingham Consultancy Challenge, where she secured a £500 marketing budget for a Nottingham-based company that uses advanced technology to enhance experiences in sports.
Building a career in UX and future plans
Sourhita now works as a UX Researcher for IBM Security Software in Bengalru, India. The research experience, network and knowledge she gained during her time at Nottingham has prepared her to excel in her profession as technology continues to evolve. “The education I received has equipped me to establish myself in the corporate world and carve out my niche as a UX Researcher,” she says.
“I pursued the HCI course at Nottingham to enter the UX industry, building on my previous experience as a research assistant and translator,” she explains. “Completing a Master’s thesis focused on user experience research combined my passion for research and my interest in understanding user behaviour, as well as my natural affinity for working with people.”
“My supervisor, Dr. Alexandra Lang, was incredibly supportive, and her dedication to healthcare and helping people deeply resonated with my values. I am currently working to get my Master’s thesis published with her as my co-author—fingers crossed!”
From Nottingham to IBM, Sourhita's journey reflects the opportunities that arise from interdisciplinary learning and resilience. She continues to build her career in UX, applying the skills and perspectives gained at Nottingham to create meaningful, user-centred technology solutions.
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