Brenda San German

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Technology, Brenda worked for five years as a Java developer and delivery manager in technology and banking. While on holiday in New York City, Brenda became inspired to embark on postgraduate study. She is a FIDERH scholar from Mexico.

“While at American Museum of Natural History, I was amazed by the immersive experience of the interactive media. From augmented and virtual reality experiences and 3D representations of marine life to the lighting curation and projection of spaces.”

Smiling woman with her head slightly tiled, leaning on the side of a building

Inspired by what she saw, her research led her to enrol in a Master of Science in Computer Science at the University of Auckland. “The department has strong research in computer vision and human-computer interaction. I am determined to pursue answers on different perspectives and views of how devices and technology can change the way we do things.”

Brenda particularly appreciates the flexibility and variety her programme offers. “The first part of the programme gave me the option to study in an area outside of science that relates to my thesis, so I took Design Technologies from the School of Creative Arts Industries, which complements my studies. This flexibility allows you to curate your programme to best match your interests.”

I want to push the boundaries of what technology can achieve for designing new interactions and experiences.

As an international student, "it was hard to understand how everything works at first, but once you start meeting classmates and lecturers, everyone is willing to give a hand," she shares. Brenda highlights the numerous events, communities, and clubs available at the University of Auckland, where students can easily find like-minded peers.

Brenda is particularly fond of Auckland’s summer and its proximity to nature. "It is a city where one weekend you can just take a bus and find yourself at the beach, or take the ferry and go for a hike in Devonport," she says, enjoying the balance between city life and easy access to natural beauty.

Prepare to be challenged on everything you know and be open to new opportunities. Don’t forget to bring a backpack and your hiking shoes.

Being far from family and friends has been one of the most significant changes for Brenda. “Every problem I have to solve on my own, without help or advice from people that I love and care for," she explains. However, this independence has also given her freedom to experiment, make her own decisions, and learn from her mistakes, transforming her perspective on life.