Why did you choose your course?
I knew I wanted to do something Maths and Physics related because these were my favourite subjects during GCSE and A-level, engineering combined both and when doing research, I realised that sounded like what I saw myself as in the future. Then I tried deciding which engineering discipline I wanted, but all the information I found on the specific engineering types was broad and truly they all sounded good, but the same. So I found General Engineering, and I realised that’s what I actually wanted, essentially I chose General Engineering because I couldn’t decide. However now I can also see that this was the best fit for me, being able to make a choice AFTER I had an insight into the different disciplines, an informed choice and not just a guess or toss of a coin.
What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?
I think it has to be group projects, these are risky, because the groups are usually made at random. But if you get a nice group, it can be such a fun experience. I particularly like the projects where we had to build actual prototypes, it’s so much fun working together at the iForge and trying to figure things out and fix problems as a group, instead of stressing out on your own, problems can be quite funny. Also these types of projects make me realise how much I have learned, they make the theory of the modules make sense and I find that really rewarding.
What do you think about Sheffield as a city?
Hilly, it has to be up there. Tests your fitness, especially when you come back from the holidays, but it means great views which can actually be godsend on those stressful days where you need to clear your head. On that same topic Sheffield has a lot of parks and green spaces to walk around or have picnics when the weather is nice, play with a ball etc.
I also really enjoy the city campus. Being able to go into Uni and run errands or go to lunch in between lectures makes my days a lot more interesting and dynamic, and it’s also time efficient.
I personally love the architecture around the city centre, the older buildings in particular.
The nightlife has a lot to offer as well, on top of the Foundry, our Student Union Club, which is a guaranteed good night, there are quite a few other clubs and bars. Most of them are in the same area, within a few streets, which is really convenient.
Have you got any particular academic achievements or extra-curricular achievements you’d like to highlight?
I have been part of the Volleyball club since my first year. I would strongly recommend joining a sports club, not only for the health benefits of exercise, but also for the distraction or break from studying and the social aspect of it. On top of the training, most sports societies run socials where you can meet lots of different people and take part in many other activities.
I am also part of my degree society, GemSoc, which is such a great opportunity to meet your course mates outside of lectures and the academic context, and try out group activities such as Laser Tag or Mini Golf.
I am also part of Engineers Rugby, the Women’s team, which is so much fun, great to destress and unleash. And again you get to meet so many interesting people.
What are your ambitions after completing your degree?
I am still trying to figure that out myself, this year I have specialised in Energy and Sustainability. The modules within this specialism are really interesting and I am planning on following this branch further. I am now thinking nuclear energy has a lot of potential to become the future of sustainable energy. Research and investment are still needed but I find this very interesting and would like to work in the nuclear energy field.
What would you say to a younger student if they are considering studying engineering/science/maths at university?
I would say go, do it. It’s such a good experience, I have learned and grown so much, not only in the academic aspect but also in a personal level. And if you ever realise maybe you want to study something else you can transfer courses. If you like the course but don’t see yourself working a 9-to-5 on it, you can always apply to do something completely different to the degree you studied. You will learn so many transferable skills by taking any degree you are likely to find a job in almost anything. So there’s really nothing to lose, go for it. STEM degrees are hard, but doable and all the effort is worth it, you’ll have so many course mates in the same situation willing to help or just rant with you, and the University offers so much help and support. Again there’s nothing to lose, and it’s such a good experience.
International Engineering Ambassadors 