Diego Macall WSS Experience
Name: Diego Macall
Age: 30
Location: France
WSS course studied: An Introduction to Artificial Intelligence – A Practical Approach
What encouraged you to choose to join the Warwick Summer School?
Discovering that I could be part of the prestigious University of Warwick, a global leader in numerous disciplines, even for a few weeks, was an opportunity I simply couldn’t miss. Hence, I eagerly applied to join this renowned institution.
As you transitioned from the Warwick Summer School back to your studies or work, how did the skills and knowledge you gained during the three weeks help you?
After returning from the Summer School at Warwick, I noticed a significant improvement in my regular academic work. The routine I developed there helped me become more organized with my time. Although the subject matter (I took the Practical Introduction to AI course) was challenging and I continue to study it to this day, it was intellectually rewarding in numerous ways. This experience boosted my confidence significantly, especially when exploring new topics, methodologies, and mathematical models because I was no longer intimidated by subjects that at first glance seemed intractable. The approachable nature of the professors and assistant in the course encouraged me to ask questions without fear, regardless of how "dumb" I thought my questions might be. Their helpful and engaging responses ensured that I fully understood their answers, enhancing my overall learning experience.
As for technical skills, I significantly improved my Python coding skills both from learning from our professor and then from working together with my classmates after class. These skills have significantly improved my academic work.
![Image of student and academic posing together](20230804_213408.jpg)
Did you build any new friendships/ connections during your time on the summer school?
I did. The Summer School is very well designed in that sense because all Summer School Courses attend the many social events throughout the three weeks we are in class. So meeting people is quite easy. I've maintained regular contact with two individuals and catch up less frequently with three others. We discuss not just academic and professional matters but also travel, books, and culture.
If all goes as planned, I'll be traveling to China this fall to visit a friend I made at Warwick. The fact that the Summer School is an intensive 3 weeks, I think is great because it’s impossible not meet new people and make new friends.
What was your highlight of taking part in Warwick Summer School?
From the academic course, for me the highlight was losing the fear of AI. The course showed me that It is understandable. All you need to do is apply yourself, and you can have a good understanding of what AI is, how it works, and what it can and cannot do (yet).
From the social activities, the highlight was meeting the friends I made.
![IMage of lecture teaching a class with writing on whiteboard](20230721_104343.jpg)
What advice would you give to future students participating in the Warwick Summer School to get the most out of the programme?
Don’t be shy. Put yourself out there. The courses are challenging but extremely rewarding, and the people you meet, from all over the world, are just like you, positive, outgoing people who want to improve their skill set while making friends and contacts from all over the world.
Don’t miss the chance to attend the Warwick Summer School!