Meet BSc Data Science and AI student Sabrina Plant
- Written byStéphanie Malm
- Published date 04 October 2025
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Sabrina Plant studies BSc (Hons) Data Science and AI at UAL Creative Computing Institute (CCI). We spoke to her about her experience at the CCI and how her undergraduate degree helped her develop personally and her creative practice even further.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your background?
My name is Sabrina Plant, and I’m currently studying BSc Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at UAL Creative Computing Institute (CCI). Over the course of my degree, I’ve built a strong foundation in areas like machine learning, databases, and data analysis. I’ve also had the chance to work on projects such as student performance analytics and smart Internet of Things (IoT) systems, which allowed me to apply my technical skills in Python and SQL to real-world challenges. What I really enjoy is the more creative side of data science exploring how AI can be applied in innovative ways beyond traditional uses.
I’d describe myself as someone who enjoys problem-solving, working with data, and continuously learning, and I’m really excited about the opportunity to apply my skills in a professional setting.
What made you choose to study BSc Data Science and AI at UAL’s Creative Computing Institute?
I chose to study Data Science and AI at UAL’s Creative Computing Institute because I didn’t want the standard, traditional data science degree. What stood out to me was the creative freedom built into the projects, which really allows you to explore new and innovative applications of AI.
When I first visited the university, I also noticed how warm and approachable the lecturers were. They encouraged curiosity and asking questions, which created an atmosphere that felt very supportive and positive, something I wasn’t used to in other academic environments. That combination of creativity and openness really convinced me this was the right place for me.
How did studying help you develop your creative practice ?
Studying at CCI has helped me feel more confident about taking creative risks and pushing projects beyond the specification. For example, when I was building a smart plant watering system, instead of just placing it into a standard, ready-made house structure, I designed and built my own using cardboard and styrofoam with a Barbie dream house theme. That experience really showed me how much I enjoy combining technology with something playful and imaginative. I felt like I could bring in aspects of myself and it reminded me that data science doesn’t always have to be rigid or traditional.
What's been your favourite project you’ve worked on while studying?
My favourite project was creating a student performance and learning analytics system designed to identify at-risk students who might need extra support. I built a database and dashboard that brought together information like attendance, test results, and engagement data, so teachers and parents could see early warning signs more clearly.
There are so many different factors that can affect a child’s education, but teachers are often overrun with work, and school information can be scattered or incomplete, which makes it difficult to intervene early. By centralising the data and highlighting patterns, my system aimed to make it easier to spot less obvious issues, such as emotional distress, difficulties at home, or hidden learning disabilities, that might otherwise be missed. What I loved about this project is that it combined technical skills with a meaningful purpose — showing me how data and AI can be used not just to solve problems, but to make a genuine difference.
How has the course helped you to grow personally and professionally so far?
On a personal level, it’s given me the confidence to take creative risks and trust my own ideas. I’ve learned that technology doesn’t always have to be conventional, it can also be fun and expressive, which has made me feel more like myself in the work I create. Professionally, I’ve gained strong technical skills in areas like data analysis, databases, and AI, but also the experience of applying them to important projects. At the same time, I’ve learned how valuable collaboration is. Many of our lectures involve working in teams, where I developed confidence in sharing ideas, problem-solving together and building on different perspectives.
What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about studying BSc Data Science and AI at UAL?
If you’re thinking about studying BSc (Hons) Data Science and AI at UAL, my advice would be: go for it and don’t be afraid to try things that feel risky or different. It’s okay to go beyond the brief, to design your own projects, or to mix tech and art in unexpected ways.
Be ready for challenges along the way, because not everything will work the first time, but that’s not failure, it’s how you learn and improve. If you approach the course with persistence and an open mind, you’ll get the chance to build your skills while also shaping your own unique experience.