How the foundation year gave me the skills and confidence to succeed in my mechanical engineering degree

How did the foundation year prepare you for your degree?

The foundation year was an essential stepping stone for me. It provided a solid grounding in maths, physics, and engineering fundamentals, which prepared me well for the challenges of my Mechanical Engineering degree. I gained practical skills, such as writing lab reports and using MATLAB, which proved invaluable as I progressed through my studies. MATLAB, in particular, became a tool I frequently used throughout my course, making the early exposure incredibly beneficial.

Beyond the technical skills, the foundation year also helped me improve my time management and study techniques, giving me the confidence to tackle the first year of my degree. It made the transition to university life much smoother, helping me feel far more prepared both academically and personally.

But the best part of the foundation year was the sense of community it fostered. I met a group of peers who were on the same journey, creating a supportive environment that made settling into university life far easier.

How did you find the modules during your degree?

Thanks to the foundation year, I felt ready to take on the first-year modules, which were excellent in building a strong base for the rest of my degree. The combination of lectures and practical applications made the content both engaging and relevant, as I could immediately see how the theory connected to real-world engineering challenges.

One of the standout experiences was the third-year group design project, where I worked with a team on industry-supported challenges. This hands-on experience not only helped me develop teamwork and problem-solving skills but also allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios—something that was incredibly valuable when applying for graduate roles.

What skills did you develop?

The course gave me a strong balance of technical and soft skills. On the technical side, I became proficient in MATLAB, FEA, and core engineering principles like fluid mechanics and thermodynamics. These skills were enhanced by hands-on lab work and industry-linked projects.

Equally important were the soft skills I gained. Through group projects and coursework, I honed my organisation, time management, and communication skills. Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams helped me understand how to effectively share ideas—an experience that mirrors real-world engineering environments.

What were the best things about studying at Sheffield?

The facilities at Sheffield are outstanding. The Diamond and Heartspace buildings offer cutting-edge labs and workspaces, while the iForge, the UK's first student-led makerspace, gave me the chance to bring my own ideas to life through 3D printing and hands-on projects.

The supportive staff were another highlight. Their approachability made the demanding course far more enjoyable - they were always willing to help and share a laugh, making the learning experience feel welcoming.

Also, the student culture at Sheffield really sets it apart. The Mechanical Engineering Society is a great way to meet people from different years, and the variety of student-led extracurricular projects allowed me to explore my interests further while building valuable skills.

What would you say to someone considering the foundation year at Sheffield?

If you're thinking about studying engineering but feel you need more preparation, the foundation year is an excellent choice. It gives you the fundamental knowledge and practical skills needed for a smooth transition into your degree, while also helping you adjust to university life.

You'll have the chance to build confidence, develop key skills, and join a supportive community, all of which will set you up for success throughout your degree and beyond.