Do you need to complete an extra project to get into the top CS Unis?

Apart from my CS A Level NEA should I start an extra project to put in my personal statement when applying to the top universities?

Hey Amith,

I'm currently studying Computer Science, finishing up my placement (sandwich) year in industry before heading back to university in October for my final year.

Doing extra/personal projects are a great way to boost your application, since it shows your own interests, your independent thinking and a bit of your own character. It's also a fab opportunity for you to learn new skills or mess around with new technology, potentially leading to great networking opportunities with others - consider contributing to open source projects or starting your own.

They're also great for your future career aspirations. A strong GitHub profile of past work will put you in high regards amongst future employers, even if there's a load of unfinished projects on there (which is most people's GitHub profile, mine included).

Good luck!
~ Mikael, UoP Student Rep