Progressing to Postgrad: My journey to further study

Posted on: 20 October 2023 by Richard Finch in Graduate stories

Akos Balog is a Class of 2022 BA Geography and Planning graduate, now studying on an Integrated MSc and PhD in Data Analytics and Society.

I became interested in pursuing further studies at the postgraduate level, and as a result, I was actively applying to various Master's programs across different institutions. Among these applications, I received several offers related to urban planning, a field that intrigued me. During discussions about my options with my dissertation supervisor, they recommended that I explore the realms of urban dynamics and urban analytics for potential opportunities. In particular, my supervisor pointed out the integrated Master's and PhD programs available at the ESRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Data Analytics and Society.

Upon investigating this program further, I was captivated by the intriguing projects it offered and the unique chance to undertake a PhD so soon after completing my undergraduate studies. The idea of delving into cutting-edge research in these fields greatly appealed to me, ultimately influencing my decision to pursue this opportunity for advanced study.

My journey to where I am today has been a series of transitions and challenges that have ultimately shaped my path. The journey began in 2011 when I made the significant move from the USA to the United Kingdom, following four years of living in the USA after my initial migration from Hungary. As I settled into the UK, I pursued my education by completing my GCSEs, which I managed to accomplish without much difficulty. This set the stage for my progression into sixth form, where I chose to study mathematics, economics, and history as my three subjects.

Although I enjoyed my time in sixth form, I must admit that I didn't dedicate as much effort to my A-levels as I should have. I had a somewhat complacent attitude, thinking I would manage just fine. Despite being predicted A*AA grades, I ended up achieving BCC grades, which wasn't aligned with my initial expectations. This outcome had an impact on my academic plans, as I had intended to study Economics at a different institution but found myself unable to do so due to unforeseen circumstances.

This turn of events led me to the clearing process, where I had a clear goal in mind: to secure a spot at a Russell Group university, which had been drilled into me by my sixth form. Amid rejections from several universities, including a failed attempt to pursue a course in Astronomy and Physics due to lacking a physics background, I was on the brink of giving up on the University of Liverpool.

However, a glimmer of opportunity emerged during a conversation with a representative from the university. While the initial plan didn't pan out, they mentioned a vacancy in the geography and planning course. Without much thought, I agreed to this unexpected shift. It was only a few moments later that I realized I hadn't studied geography since year 8. There was a moment in my first lecture where the lecturer asked who had studied geography a-level and the entire class raised their hands. Despite this apprehension, I dived into the course and soon discovered my passion for the human aspects of geography, skilfully navigating away from the physical geography aspects. This dedication and interest translated into academic success, as I graduated with a first-class degree.

In my third year of studies, I found myself particularly drawn to understanding the complexities of urban areas and how they operate. This newfound fascination eventually led me to the PhD opportunity I am currently pursuing. However, this path wasn't without its hurdles. Rejections from the first two projects I applied to could have easily deterred me, as I was up against stronger candidates. But in the end, I was offered a project that aligned more closely with my interests, leaving me filled with joy and satisfaction.

Reflecting on my journey, it's clear that each twist and turn has played a role in shaping my academic and professional trajectory. From international migrations to unexpected academic shifts, each experience has contributed to my growth and determination, ultimately leading me to the PhD project that resonates deeply with my aspirations.

So far in my PhD and Masters I have had to learn new skills and learn to become a project manager essentially of my PhD, it was been hard work but also a lot of fun. I work with the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority in attempting to model the region's retail centres post pandemic recovery and attempting to analyse how the city can be better prepared for future shocks.

I have really enjoyed entering the world of data science, coding, and computer modelling as it is an industry of the future but I like that my work is not fully computers and coding but has a significant real-life impact and aspect to it. I think having to learn completely new skills was difficult but rewarding having to learn coding languages such as R and Python as well as being introduced to dozens of new methods, approaches and fields of work. Also becoming more like colleagues with my lecturers was also a cool experience but quite strange.

My advice for current students

Join a sports team, my best experience at this university was with the water polo team which I was president and treasurer and also continued the sport after university. I have been a part of a local club for a long time and it is a great way to socialise and keep healthy after university.

Try new things, and never be afraid to start something completely new.

Always apply for opportunities even if you don't ""think"" you will get them, I would have never dreamed I was good enough to be accepted on a PhD programme. There are loads of opportunities for funding, bursaries or scholarships as well as professional opportunities, which if you don't apply for you definitely won't get.