“Please know that resilience is powerful, and things can and do get better. Lean on those who uplift you.”
Yuan Zhang has graduated from Ulster University with a Computing Science degree
A student who moved to Northern Ireland three years ago has shared his resilient journey to graduation after overcoming a number of academic and personal hurdles.
Yuan Zhang is originally from the city of Heyuan in China, and he completed three years of a Business Management degree at South China Agricultural University in Guangzhou. This was a joint programme with Ulster University, meaning he travelled to NI for a final year of studying Business Economics in 2018.
In his youth, Yuan was subjected to two conversion therapies, and made the decision to step away from his family at the age of 16. In the decade since, he has seen “education as a pathway to opportunity and growth” and in 2021 began his second round of studies at Ulster University, graduating on July 8 with a Computing Science degree.
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It was his husband, Gary, who also studied Computing Science at Ulster University, who encouraged him to apply for the course. He had always been curious about technology and the role it plays in shaping the world, but Yuan didn’t have a clear path into the field. However, he says it turned out to be one of the best decisions he’s ever made.
Since beginning his second round of studies, Yuan has accomplished a huge amoutn, including being named Tech Student of the Year 2024 by EMEEN and Invest NI. Excelling in both his studies and extra-curricular endeavours, Yuan is particularly proud of bringing DevFest Ireland 2025 to Ulster University, the first time this tech conference has been hosted in Northern Ireland.
Yuan Zhang on his graduation day with his husband Gary
He said: “With the incredible support of the Faculty of CEBE and the wider local tech community, we welcomed hundreds of students and professionals to share ideas, learn, and celebrate technology together.”
Alongside that, Yuan helped grow the UU Computing Society into the largest society on campus, and inspired him to take on many more community roles: “Taking part in hackathons, and volunteering with tech communities have all made my time here incredibly meaningful. These experiences helped me find purpose, confidence, and a deep sense of belonging.”
After celebrating graduation with Gary, his family and his friends, Yuan is planning a cycling trip around Ireland to explore different towns and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. He says it is his way of taking in this milestone and recharging before the next chapter in industry.
Yuan is planning a cycling trip around Ireland after his graduation
Yuan explained: “I’ll be returning to Liberty IT as an Associate Software Engineer, where I previously completed my summer internship and placement year. I’m excited to continue growing in a supportive environment that values learning and innovation.”
As for anyone considering taking up a university degree, Yuan offered some advice. He said: “Just go for it. I know that sounds cliché, but it’s truly life-changing.
“When I moved to Northern Ireland in 2021, I had no job and no direction. Now, I have a career and a future I’m excited about. If you’re even thinking about it, trust your instincts. This course changed my life, and it could change yours too.
“To anyone reading this, whether you’re struggling yourself or supporting someone who is, please know that resilience is powerful, and things can and do get better. Lean on those who uplift you. Your story matters, and you are not alone.”
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