Studying Biomedical Engineering strengthened my skills, broadened my perspective, and opened up new career opportunities in healthcare innovation

I studied MSc Biomedical Engineering at the University of Sheffield. Before that, I completed my B.Tech in Biotechnology at VIT, Vellore in India, and worked for about a year at Caplin Steriles Limited, a pharmaceutical company in India. There, I was part of the Quality Management System in the Microbiology Department, which gave me my first experience of applying science in an industry setting.

I decided to do a master’s because I wanted to specialise in a field that connected my background in biotechnology with my growing interest in engineering applications for healthcare. Biomedical engineering felt like the perfect fit — it offered the chance to work on innovative solutions to real medical challenges.

I chose Sheffield because of its excellent global reputation for biomedical engineering, its focus on interdisciplinary research, and its strong links with industry. The programme’s emphasis on practical applications and access to cutting-edge facilities really stood out to me, and the University’s welcoming community made it feel like the right place to grow both academically and personally.

My experience as an international student was both challenging and incredibly rewarding. Adjusting to a new academic system and culture took some time, but the kindness of the people and the support of the University made the transition much easier. I really enjoyed meeting people from all over the world. Sheffield itself was unique — it had the energy of a city but also the calm and beauty of nature, with the Peak District right on its doorstep. Living there taught me independence and gave me opportunities to embrace new experiences, both inside and outside the classroom.

The best thing about my course was the blend of pioneering research, practical applications, and the incredible support from the faculty. The lecturers were not only experts in their fields but also genuinely invested in helping students succeed. This combination not only strengthened my technical skills in areas like computational modelling, bioimaging, and biomechanics but also built my confidence to take on complex challenges.

Alongside my studies, I volunteered at a nearby PDSA (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals). Giving back to the community and helping animals added a rewarding balance to my academic life and taught me the importance of applying my skills in meaningful ways.

My master’s degree prepared me for my career by equipping me with both specialist technical skills and transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. The connections I made with faculty, peers, and industry professionals were also invaluable in showing me the wide range of opportunities available in biomedical engineering.

After graduating, I plan to build my career in biomedical engineering, ideally in roles involving computational modelling or medical device development. Longer term, I want to contribute to innovations in healthcare that improve people’s lives.

For anyone considering this course at Sheffield, my advice is simple: go for it. The programme offers an excellent balance of theory and practice, and the support from staff is second to none. Take advantage of the opportunities and resources available, and don’t hesitate to ask for help or get involved in the community. Sheffield is a welcoming place to live and study — for me, it was a truly rewarding experience.