Ali Asghar Karani: MSc Data Science Alumni
Ali Asghar Karani came to London South Bank University (LSBU) seeking excellence in data science and discovered something equally valuable – a truly inclusive community. As an international Muslim student pursuing his MSc in Data Science, Ali found an environment where his cultural and religious identity was genuinely celebrated. From campus celebrations to dedicated facilities, LSBU's commitment to diversity became the foundation for his remarkable journey from student to professional success.
What advice would you give an International student who's starting at LSBU?
LSBU is a welcoming and inclusive place to get involved in student life, connect with the diverse community, and do not hesitate to seek support whenever needed.
Why did you choose to study the course you did at LSBU? Also, why did you choose LSBU?
I chose my course because it aligned with my passion and offered a balance of practical skills and industry knowledge. I chose LSBU because of its inclusive environment, strong support for international students, and its reputation for preparing graduates for real-world careers, especially in the heart of London.
Tell us more about your positive experience at the University.
My experience at LSBU was incredibly positive, from the supportive teaching staff and inclusive learning environment to the diverse student community, I always felt empowered to grow both personally and professionally. As a Muslim student, I truly appreciated how the university respected and embraced cultural and religious diversity. Events like Eid were celebrated on campus, iftar meals were arranged during Ramadan, and having access to a dedicated prayer room made me feel welcomed and valued.
Did you take advantage of any opportunities or support whilst at the University, and how did these enhance your student experience?
Yes, I took full advantage of the university’s support services and extracurricular opportunities. The academic support helped me improve my skills and confidence, while joining student societies and events allowed me to connect with peers from diverse backgrounds. This support network enhanced my overall experience by making me feel included and better prepared for my future career.
Please give a brief overview of your career path since graduation and your current role/responsibilities.
Since graduation, I have been working as a Software Engineer at Anchorage Chambers, a Manchester-based insolvency firm. I led the Learning Management System project built with Next.js and .NET, managing a team of three engineers based in our offshore Pakistan office. I am responsible for ensuring timely delivery, coordinating tasks within my team, and maintaining direct communication with UK-based clients to meet their deadlines and requirements.
In what way did your experience at University prepare you for your current career?
My experience at university prepared me well for my career by giving me a solid understanding of the UK job market and professional expectations. I learned how to effectively approach companies and present myself, which helped me successfully land an engineering role. Additionally, the practical skills and teamwork experience gained during my studies have been invaluable in my current role.
What advice would you give students interested in pursuing a similar career to you?
My advice to students pursuing a career in software engineering is to focus on building strong technical skills while developing good communication and teamwork abilities. It is not easy, but it is definitely possible to achieve your goals if you stay resilient and determined. Keep learning, seek real-world experience through internships or projects, and be proactive in networking and creating opportunities for yourself.
What does being an LSBU alum mean to you?
Being an LSBU alum means being part of a diverse and supportive community that helped shape my personal and professional growth. Although I have not been actively involved with LSBU since graduating, I value staying connected with fellow alumni and professionals through LinkedIn.
LinkedIn contact: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliasgharkarani/