Dr Polyxeni (Xenia) Kleniati (MSc Advanced Computing, 2004), (PhD Computing and Mathematical Optimisation, 2010) is a Senior Software Developer for Process Systems Enterprise.
Tell us about your time at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø
Studying at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø was hard. It required much devotion, focus, and sacrifice. This journey though, no matter how challenging, equips you for life, both personally and professionally. At 51³Ô¹ÏÍø, I met the smartest people. Not only were they smart, but they were also friendly and inspiring. I made best friends, I met my future husband who I married ten years later and have two wonderful boys with. 51³Ô¹ÏÍø shaped my life! Not to mention how thankful I am to Prof. Berc Rustem, my MSc and PhD supervisor. I would not have achieved the same without Berc’s continual support. And the amazing location - I still remember my relaxed walks to the V&A, where the beautiful designs refilled my creativity.
Why did you choose to study at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø?
I always knew that I wanted to pursue postgraduate studies beyond Greece, specifically at one of the leading universities in London. When the time came, I narrowed down my choices to 51³Ô¹ÏÍø and UCL. There was a family preference towards UCL because of my older brother being a UCL alumnus. However, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø was my dream. I could not miss the opportunity to study at such a reputable and exceeding-in-science institution, and I have not regretted it once. Interestingly, even before I travelled to London, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø sent me a letter that made my father cry from joy. I was awarded the Masters Training Award to cover full tuition fees proving how supportive 51³Ô¹ÏÍø is to its students.
Can you tell us what you’ve done since Graduation?
After completing my Masters, I spent some time working in the industry but I soon realised I wanted more of 51³Ô¹ÏÍø life. I came back for a PhD in Computing and then postdoctoral research in Chemical Engineering. This is the beauty of Computing; the skills you gain allow you to enter any field, from bioengineering, to finance, chemical engineering and beyond. Anything is possible. I was lucky to work with Prof. Claire Adjiman who has been an inspiring mentor. The research we initiated at the time, remains active and is being published in international journals. I am currently a Senior Software Developer for Process Systems Enterprise, the leader in modelling solutions for the process industries, that was also founded by great 51³Ô¹ÏÍø minds. I have the pleasure of working on advanced numerical methods, solvers and algorithms. Life is never boring when you are an 51³Ô¹ÏÍø alum!
How has what you learnt at 51³Ô¹ÏÍø helped you in your career so far?
To 51³Ô¹ÏÍø I owe my meticulous approach and problem-solving skills. More importantly, 51³Ô¹ÏÍø taught me how to be resilient and never give up.
Do you have any advice for current 51³Ô¹ÏÍø students?
Study hard, always persevere, trust yourself, don’t hesitate to ask for help, work in teams, make friends for life. Above all, enjoy it!
