Newcastle University

They say that two is company, and this is certainly the case for twin brothers Daniel and Graeme Ross who have graduated with BSc Hons degrees in computing science, gaining a first and 2:1 respectively. 

They grew up in Boldon, near Sunderland, attending Boldon School, and there was never any question about the University they wished to attend.

"We both wanted to go to University." said Daniel, "However, we wanted to remain in the area so we considered ourselves fortunate to live here as Newcastle University was our university of choice."

Having studied Mathematics, Physics, Geography and Computing at A-level, they decided to study computing science because of their natural interest in the subject and its relevance to their first love which is music.

Together with their friend Joshua, the twins play in new band Black Cab Casino, Daniel being lead vocalist and playing guitar while Graeme plays drums. Daniel also plays in other local bands including local favourites O'Messy Life.

Daniel and Graeme are currently in Chicago having built up contacts via playing gigs in the North East.  They hope to take part in shows joining bands they have performed with previously and have arranged a couple of recording sessions.  The intention is to produce demos for two record labels with a view to further developing their musical talents during their four months in the US.

When asked about their future, both indicated that they hope to integrate their degree programme learning with their passion for music.  Yet despite their ambition, they do retain a sense of realism.

Graeme said, "Ideally, I would like to do something that involved new technology," while Daniel, who has already used his computing abilities to help record other local bands, would like to follow his musical ambitions before settling on a career.

Finally, when asked about the pros and cons of being a twin, Graeme admitted that sibling rivalry did exist.  "We can get a bit on top of each other sometimes, but we each have our own friends and so are not together all the time - which is a big help, I think."