Computer Vision News - September 2016

Sophia: It was probably because my father was working as a scientist. When I was in high school, I was more interested in engineering subjects. For that reason, I wanted to apply to an engineering university rather than follow medical studies. At the time I entered engineering college, I didn’t really know the differences between electrical engineering and computer engineering, for example. I just knew that I wanted to be an engineer . Eventually, I found my tract, and I was mostly interested in things relating to programming. The idea of discovering something new really excited me. CVN: Why didn’t you continue that path in your home country? Sophia: I did really well in my home country, where I completed my Bachelors and Masters education. Then I got lucky and secured a position with Erasmus Mundus for a Masters scholarship in Vision and Robotics . I wasn’t sure how an international Masters would differ from a Masters in Pakistan, but I wanted to take this opportunity abroad. Actually, I discovered in my experience that Pakistan is still a bit behind in research and technology compared to the rest of Europe. I can gain more knowledge working here than working in Pakistan. CVN: So you decided to stay in Europe? Sophia: My future plan is to return to my country after gaining some experience. Then I can make a contribution for my country. CVN: I know that you went to many other places before Scotland. What did you find interesting there? Sophia: Yes - I would say that I was lucky in the sense that I got the positions for my Masters and for my PhD. My positions were from Erasmus Mundus. What that entails is that you have to travel while you are studying. Or study while you are traveling... [she laughs] Starting with my initial experience with the Erasmus Mundus Masters program, I learned a lot about different cultures in Europe. My program included international students from 15 different countries so I got to know a lot about people living in different places in the world. I would say that people in general are really friendly. They are always helping, no matter from which background or from which country they come. What I found really helpful was that we formed communities. For example, I really liked living in Spain because they have very strong family ties. Their family culture is very similar to what I knew in Pakistan. Also, they are really friendly and encouraging people. “ My future plan is to return to my country after gaining some experience. Then I can make a contribution for my country ” Computer Vision News Women in Computer Vision 5 Women Scientists