Former Student: Pola Labedzka
Pola was a student on the 2024-2025 course. She is now a software engineer with Google.
What was your background before starting the MPhil?
Before starting the MLMI MPhil, I studied the Technology, Liberal Arts and Sciences interdisciplinary program at the University of Twente in the Netherlands, focusing on computer science, mathematics and human-computer interaction. I completed several internships as a software engineer, which provided practical industry experience alongside my academic training.
What did you get out of the course?
The course gave me a solid grounding in machine learning and practical experience in training and evaluating models. It also allowed me to explore applications in human-computer interaction, the research area I was most interested in pursuing.
What were the highlights?
A major highlight was working on my dissertation under the supervision of Dr John Dudley and Dr Miri Zilka. During this project, I addressed a highly specialised, precision-critical machine learning use case and had the opportunity to collaborate with stakeholders outside academia, which added a valuable real-world dimension to the research and my learning experience.
What have you gone on to do afterwards and what are your longer-term plans?
Currently, I am a software engineer at Google in Zurich where I am working as a part of the Google Messages team – a user-facing product that builds on my academic background. While I have not yet finalised my long-term plans, I intend to gain further industry experience and remain open to the possibility of pursuing a PhD in the future.
What advice would you give to people applying for the course?
Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience. It is also important to think carefully about your research interests, as the program allows significant tailoring through the choice of electives, with the dissertation being a major component. For me personally, the availability of a Human-Computer Interaction focus was a key reason I enjoyed the programme so much. There are many excellent researchers within the programme, so be sure to familiarise yourself with the range of research topics available. In this way you will not only make sure the programme is the right one for you but this will also strengthen your application. Good luck!
What advice would you give to people taking the course?
I strongly recommend organising study sessions with other members of the MLMI cohort. It is a truly unique group of passionate and driven individuals. Collaborating on projects, as well as studying together for exams, has been one of the highlights of my year. Beyond the academic benefits, make a conscious effort to build friendships along the way and take advantage of everything this amazing university and department have to offer not only within the course. The year will be intense and demanding, but it is also deeply rewarding.
13th December 2025