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emmanuelogar · 3 years

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ACADEMIC PROFILE

I am Emmanuel Ifeanyi Ogar, a native of Obudu in Cross River State which is located in the southern region of Nigeria also known as Niger Delta. I was born in Lagos State, a metropolitan city around the South-Western region of my country which as of the time of my birth in the late eighties was the capital of Nigeria.

Early years

My early age of education could be traced back to the year 1991, from Nigeria Air Force nursery and primary school Victoria Island Lagos.

I was a student until 1996 when my parents have to relocate because my father been a military personal was posted out from Lagos state to River state, precisely Port-Harcourt.

I completed my primary education with Airforce Primary School Port-Harcourt Rivers State, after which I sat for the first school leaving certificate examination.

Background

Following my elementary schooling, I was accepted into a high secondary school and enrolled as a student. During my final level in secondary school, I participated in the West Africa senior secondary school examination which was compulsory for all high school graduates as much as criteria for further studies into the university.

On completion of my higher secondary school, I secured a job with a non-governmental organization where I worked as a freelancer volunteer for a year.

Within the period as a volunteer, I had the opportunity of; Supporting and caring for the less privileged in the society, supporting the elderly in their day-to-day activities, carrying children to school and back from school, engaging in community outreach on sanitation matters, mentoring little children of age 6 to 9, tutor children after school, help organize and sort donations for the less privileged.

Professional Experiences

Moreover, I left the NGO for a paid job with a construction company which I was a junior site supervisor.

My role as a site supervisor was as follows;

· To supervise workers daily

· Ensure that materials for work are used judiciously

· To keep records of work done with the time frame at the site and after

· Compiling staff rotas, dealing with leave requests and arranging cover when necessary

· Planning workloads, allocating tasks and monitoring progress against targets

· Briefing their teams on new initiatives, changes to targets, and company news

· Maintaining safety standards, conducting risk assessments, ensuring staff have adequate first aid and fire safety training

· Devising work schedules and implementing deadlines

· Ensuring that quality standards are upheld

My deep desire to succeed despite any unforeseen obstacle has motivated me to work hard at all times, this has been my nature. I became demanding for my ambition, so I decided to forfeit the job to further my education.

Then again, my aspiration for a technical and competitive career prompted me to take up one of the most coveted undergraduate programs (computer science).

Higher Education Background

However, I enrolled for the joint admission and matriculation board examination which I passed and gained admission into the university to study my preferred course.

In other words, I've always had a strong interest in subjects that need an analytical approach. From my early days in high school, mathematics has always intrigued me. At some point in high school, the most challenging of all problems were my favourites and obtaining solutions to them leaves me mesmerized. I always did and would want to thrive on solving those challenging problems.

The most endearing feature of computer science is its rich amalgamation of physical and mathematical science.

Nevertheless, my 100 level courses were mixed with both physical sciences and linguistic. Linguistics helped in shaping and building my vocabularies in terms of writing English essays.

Then again, as I proceed to the next level (200 level) in my undergraduate study, I studied courses like data structure and file system, theory of computer science, computer organization and systems programming, microprocessor-based design and basic programming languages in JAVA script, Python, C++, and C.

These courses helped me to gain a stronger background in the fundamentals of computer science which were aptly complemented by the laboratory courses.

The challenging assignments that were a part of the laboratory courses helped me to develop the required technical and programming skills needed to excel more in the course.

Similarly, during the last two years of my study, I took an advanced courses like; Database programming, compiler design, artificial intelligence, operating systems, queueing systems, modelling and simulation, electronic design and computer networking.

In other words, the computing B.Sc. level skills I acquired upon graduating from the university have gained me significant knowledge of how computers and some other electronic gadgets operate and the theory behind them. Actually, as a computer analyst or data programmer, I’ve come to realize that, data coding could be seen among the bedrock of technology in the world at large because of its high demands and value.

Most importantly, upon graduation, I was awarded a Bachelor degree in Computer Science from the faculty of science at the prestigious Rivers State University of Science and Technology Port-Harcourt Nigeria. To that end, why I was waiting for the national assignment posting called National Youth Service Corps. I got involved in learning a skill from a mechanical workshop.

Skills acquired

During the period, I acquired skills like; How to diagnose a vehicle using a computerized system(laptop), test driving vehicles after repairs are completed to ensure mechanical soundness and to determine whether any other problem exists, how to file appropriate documentation on each repair, provide customers with detailed estimates for repairs and replacements and obtain, signature approval before commencing work.

On receiving my posting letter for my national assignment, I resigned from my apprenticeship with the mechanic workshop.

Then again, I was posted to a primary school for my NYSC (National Youth Service Corp) assignment. Getting to primary school, I was assigned to the post of teacher assistant.

As an assistant to the class teacher my duties were as follows;

· To ensure that the students are in good conduct

· To assist the class teacher in marking the student’s assignment

In conclusion, I will say I have learnt and equipped my mind for the challenges ahead in all ramifications of life.

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emmanuelogar · 3 years

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ACADEMIC SKILL DEVELOPMENT

Presently, I am a student with ONCampus Sunderland doing a master’s foundation program (Business Pathway) for one term after which I’ll progress to study masters in cyber security at the University of Sunderland. I’m certain that I will acquire the fundamental information and skills to pursue a career in cybersecurity here. As an international student, I am looking forward to this adventure and am eager to learn more about the city as well as the UK.

Background

At this time of studying at ONCampus, too many positive changes have occurred which has broadened my knowledge in different ways by enhancing my personal and academic skills.

Moreover, the aim is to achieve the greater goal by making use of the necessary tools available. What are my goals? Goals are getting the desired result for a particular purpose, while tools are the skills needed to achieve the goals.

Acquired skills

So far, I have acquired more skills than I had before coming to study at ONCampus Sunderland. I have developed my skills in terms of communication, leadership, time management, decision making, adaptability, stress management, ability to deal with adversity and effective networking with other students and lecturers. Procrastination has been part of my weakness which ONCampus gradually reformed me with the necessary tools. Such tools can be linked to the mode of studies like; Online learning with teams, conducive lecture room, an extra tutor who checks on each student to know if he/she understands what was taught earlier and the task associated with the modules which are done independently within a specific duration was a catalyst to be coupled with the serene environment and world-class library.

During my master’s foundation program at ONCampus Sunderland, in which I started my lectures on 4th October 2021, I was introduced to three basic modules naming; Academic skills development (ASD), Research project and EAP.

Similarly, the use of Microsoft teams was new to me because I had never used it before, but coming to ONCampus Sunderland I had the opportunity to acquire the skills, which I am glad to say I have developed and enhanced the knowledge I had on computer operations. Microsoft teams have behaved as useful tools for my online classes and studies. I do not need to see the lecturer in person at his/her office, with the use of teams all academic projects could be accessed.

However, Online learning is a culture I am not used to despite having acquired some computer skills from my undergraduate study. Having classes without being able to interact with my classmates or tutor is overwhelming for me. There are questions I always have to ask after classes that can easily be answered by my classmates but interacting with them through the online space is not feasible. Online classes also have a way of affecting the attention span of learning; it is easy to get distracted during classes with side activities like receiving phone calls, chatting or even sleeping off because there is no one to supervise you. These are some of the challenges I faced when I started my classes at ONCAMPUS Sunderland but I had to work out some strategies to be sure I make proper use of my time. Having understood the importance of time management, I decided to put away my phone during classes and focus on teams on my computer during my classes. I started asking questions in class often, surprisingly I noticed that the tutors were always ready to listen to my questions and put me through whatever I did not understand which was a relief.

Knowledge Acquired

Firstly, in academic skills development (ASD) I have developed and gained a clear understanding of the teaching method, culture and practice of the educational system in the United Kingdom, which is different from that of my home country Nigeria.

In my home country, I never had the comfort to be taught one on one by a lecturer but here in ONCampus Sunderland, it is a norm.

In the module (ASD) I learnt about critical thinking and decision making which exposed me to the importance of analysing topics and thinking rationally. I learnt about the difference between opinions and facts. I began to apply this in my regular activities, researching further into themes and refusing to take things at face value. I’m still working on improving my skills.

I also learned how to write critically. The distinction between descriptive and critical writing was noted. I realised that writing critically demonstrates my ability to convey a high level of understanding in vocabulary and would give a better result be it orally or written. I have drastically improved in my critical writing skills which enables me to analyse and contrast data from numerous sources before getting to a conclusion.

Moreover, in the other module research project class, I learned how to find a study topic, which to me was difficult to achieve why I was in my home country doing my undergraduate course. It is critical to developing research skills because they are required for independent study. I enhanced my skills on how to make use of search engines like google scholar on the internet, to be able to search for relevant articles from academic journals and how to narrow down my topic to generate research questions.

Secondly, the research project module has broadened my knowledge in research skills. I procrastinate a lot, which has made me lose concentration whenever I am faced with a task but studying with ONCampus Sunderland I have developed the zeal for research and have significantly enhanced the required skills to be near to perfection why carrying out a research project. To my understanding, a good research project comprises of six (6) stages, which are;

The project formulation stage, critical literature review, research methodology, sampling framework, result evaluation, conclusion and recommendation. Also, a title page, table of contents page (with page numbers), abstract at the front, references and appendix at the end.

Previously, I never knew how to reference using the Harvard referencing style, but in the course of my study which took place at ROOM 315 and ROOM 321 respectively at the St. Peter campus of the University of Sunderland, I was taught the referencing style (Harvard). I can comfortably teach any person willing to learn or who wishes to know more about the Harvard referencing style. In the development phase of the project, I improved both in decision-making and in planning skills when preparing questions that are relevant to my scope topic. It was important for me to develop questions concerning my research. In other words, if the questions are too much for the targeted audience, they might not be able to understand and this will ruin the whole essence of the research. So, I developed four questions and topics for the research which I was able to choose. Because of the time frame within which I was expected to complete my research, I have to choose a topic related to my discipline.

In reviewing the literature in chapter two, I did a lot of research and looked through a lot of academic journals and books online. The library was also a relevant source of information that was of great value to my research and others in the university.

I have figured out how to further develop my abilities efficiently and consistently. A literature review is mostly a way of gathering articles from other pioneer scholars in respect to the research topic. It will also enable the researcher to formulate a good questionnaire.

Also, I have developed a lot of skills which includes the understanding of theories behind my research topic. Moreover, I have additionally figured out how to isolate my research topic into subheadings and this has enabled me to know more about my research topic, the clarity and the presentation of the project.

My reading and analysing skills have been enhanced drastically which has also strengthened my speaking skills in the English language because I have studied from different sources especially from the internet site related to academics like; google, academia, encyclopaedia, most specially google scholar.

Google scholar was recommended to me by my tutor, the research site which is a search engine has been very useful to my research project. Although, some articles are free why do others demand payment before downloading or gaining access?

However, it is estimated that there are millions of documents on the google scholar sites covering approximately seventy-five per cent of all articles published.

In the course of my project, I planned exploration questions which I posted online through a monkey survey.

Monkey survey is a website programmed to assist research students and professionals understudying to post internet-based inquiries which will be valuable for their research works.

I developed the ability to construct questions using the following words; what, when, where, why and how, these words are peculiar to my scholarly achievement.

Even though I did interviews with a few students anonymously, I also had my questionnaires filled online which made me gather more information for my research.

The questionnaires I prepared was for the audience and students around the university community (Sunderland) United Kingdom. Nevertheless, it was an online platform. To that end, I wished I could’ve done more using the interview structured method. The online responses I got was massive.

These reviews have drastically helped to improve my researching and searching skills from the internet and library.

However, a methodology which is the third chapter of my research project can be defined as the approach used in the collection of information for research. In this chapter, I learnt how to formulate a questionnaire which is one of the best tools for good and precise research. Years ago, when I was undergoing my undergraduate studies, I had sea series of challenges trying to formulate a questionnaire. ONCampus Sunderland has polished me why studying here on the techniques used to formulate a good questionnaire. What skill I have achieved?

Having said that, I prepared three questions related to my research topic, in which I used monkey survey and Microsoft word. This exercise improved my communication skills significantly because communicating with students was based on one to one. Also, my previous internet skills were enhanced because of continuous surfing of the internet which contains my questionnaires. In addition to that, answers start emancipating two days after distribution.

Similarly, I learned how to collect secondary and primary data from the university library and other online articles. Then again, using more than one method for the collection of data is called triangulation. In other words, interviews could be the smartest way to compile data in smaller groups within the range of the topic. They are two types of interviews, structured and unstructured.

During my research in the MFPL6 module, I learnt that structured interviews are comparable to questionnaires with the same questions for each subject with multiple choice answers why do unstructured interviews questions differ for a different subject which depends on different answers.

My progression into a master degree will see a different way of collecting data because I am aware of the different types of data collection, preferable I might be using interviews.

The is a general question on what methodology you are using. Already, my choice of methods to be used are under consideration before I progress into my master program in cybersecurity.

On the other hand, I have been able to enrich my skills on a PowerPoint presentation that I acquired earlier in my 300-level course when I was still an undergraduate. The use of an excel sheet to prepare re Gantt chart to analyse all the data gathered. By learning the use of excel tools, I had continuously effectively improved my skills and to a good standard as much as I have created different types of charts like; pie charts, column charts and bar charts. In addition, I am going to use them in my presentation.

At the onset, excel was a bit tough during the initial stage, eventually, I kept practising till I finally understood the concept that finally led to my success.

However, the last two chapters are result evaluation, conclusion and recommendation. I have created basic abilities in information gathered through polls and online research from google scholars was one of the most intriguing stages.

This part has shown me the significance of utilizing proof in any research, because without having proof; it will be difficult to conclude. The proof depends on all the data settled on to arrive at a choice.

I have fostered my academic and planning skills development during my master foundation programme, for my questionnaire which was restricted to a few people because of time imperative and other unanticipated elements. Information gathered by the various strategy is not finished until they have been broken down and evaluated. I had the option to assemble some data that I prefer to be helpful.

In the last phase of my research project which is the end part, I want to place every piece of information into a better-composed report and afterwards sum up my discoveries.

This section has shown me how to write a suitable report bit by bit. Also, where I have figured out how to use the appropriate language in terms of academic writing.

In report composing, it is significant that you appropriately give nitty gritty consideration to every assertion to keep away from a syntactic mistake.

So far one more phenomenal expertise that I have accomplished in my course of concentrate here at ONCampus is the utilization of referencing in writing essays or research. To avoid plagiarism, a good research project includes referencing all key pioneers in the articles, journals, books, or online publications used in the research work. Another enhanced skill obtained is the ability to structure logically in a well-organized structure for easy comprehension by the intended reader.

To that end, I will say I have developed a lot of necessary skills which I never had why studying in my home country Nigeria. As an extrovert, I love group works especially in n academic environment but coming to ONCampus Sunderland I have cultivated the habit of studying independently which has helped me so far in the pursuit of academic excellence.

Significantly, my study skills have improved, I make it a point to read ahead during the week and on weekends. This writing style has greatly aided my studies. There are no immovable principles regarding when and how to write. Everybody has recognized methods of working and what suit one individual may not suit another. Certainly, some individuals are adamant that it is awesome to write based on a timetable designed for their studies. It is all about individual differences, for I prefer a lonely place (library) that is quiet to accumulate more from the writing sources within my reach.

Summary

Most importantly, I have gathered fantastic and intriguing experiences in my three months of study at ONCampus Sunderland which was a business pathway programme. I acquired good skills in academic writing, research and time management.

In academic writing skills, I never knew how to construct a presentable and mind-blowing academic profile, but now I could formulate such. During my first task, I was able to write an academic profile of one thousand words that are meant to be uploaded to any chosen online portal. I chose www.tumblr.com where I uploaded my academic profile. For me, this was a plus to my achievements.

In research skills, I have improved immensely in what it takes to be a good researcher like; a good literature review, formulating questionnaires, becoming familiar with the theories within the topic of research. Critical and logical thinking was also important just like the internet. The internet is a wonderful tool for learning, especially in the search for articles, books and other publications.

Another key thing to remember was time management. It is paramount to learn how to manage time like the saying goes “time does not wait for nobody”. I improved in my managerial skills of timing, that I learned how to plan within the time frame given to me either by my tutor, school authority or activities planned already from the school calendar. Making a daily or weekly to-do do list was also something I achieved in my master foundation program and that is now a priority.

Master foundation programme modules like MFPL6 (ASD), MFPL6(RESEARCH) and MFPL6(EAP) at ONCampus Sunderland has contributed greatly to my academic knowledge and wellbeing. Flexibility is an expertise that I acquired here at ONCampus the need to illustrate, by adjusting rapidly to changing principles and climate. gaining from slip-ups and skipping back is to show flexibility despite academic tension or stress.

Conclusion

I will complement this upon my progression to the University of Sunderland. The Master foundation programme has for sure adjusted my point of view academically. It has built my vocabulary and writing skills for future purposes.

I am optimistic that I have been equipped for the forthcoming challenges when I progress into the university of Sunderland for my master degree in cybersecurity due to the good foundation that I have acquired from ONCampus.

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