The course has provided me with a strong balance of technical skills and soft skills that are essential for a successful engineering career

Tell us how you've found the modules you've studied during your degree course
I've really enjoyed the variety of modules that the course offers, as it's given me a well-rounded understanding of Mechanical Engineering. One module that particularly stands out is the group design project in third year, where I had the opportunity to work with a team on real-world engineering challenges, supported by industry mentors. This not only helped me develop strong team working and problem-solving skills, but allowed me to apply my theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios - something I've found extremely beneficial when applying for graduate roles.

The first year modules were also great in setting a strong foundation for the rest of my degree. The integration between lectures and practical applications made the content both engaging and relevant, as I could see how the theory connects to real engineering solutions.

Throughout the course, I've also gained hands-on experience with CAD and CFD, which has opened new career opportunities for me as I now have both the knowledge and confidence to work in these areas.

What skills have you developed?
The course has provided me with a strong balance of technical skills and soft skills that are essential for a successful engineering career. On the technical side, I've learned to use MATLAB and FEA, as well as gained a deeper understanding of core engineering principles like fluid mechanics and thermodynamics.

Beyond the technical aspects, the course has helped me develop valuable soft skills such as organisation, time management, and teamwork through group projects and coursework. Working on collaborative projects, often with interdisciplinary teams, has been particularly interesting as it mirrors real-world engineering environments and has improved my ability to communicate ideas effectively.

What are the best things about studying Mechanical Engineering at Sheffield?
One of the best things is the amazing facilities on offer! The Diamond and Heartspace buildings offer great labs and workspaces. Additionally, the iForge, the UK's first ever student-led makerspace, is an incredible resource where students can bring their ideas to life through 3D printing and hands-on projects.

The supportive and approachable staff are another highlight, they make the intense course far more enjoyable - they're always willing to help and have a laugh!

But what really sets Sheffield apart is its student culture. The Mechanical Engineering society is a fantastic way to meet people from the course and different years. There are also a variety of student-led extracurricular projects to get involved in, allowing you to channel your interests into specific areas. These opportunities not only enhance your technical skills but also help you connect with like-minded peers!

You took a Foundation Year, can you tell us a bit about that?
The foundation year provided me with a solid understanding in maths, physics, and engineering fundamentals, which prepared me well for my Mechanical Engineering course. I developed essential skills, such as writing lab reports, which proved invaluable as I progressed through my degree. Learning MATLAB during this year was particularly beneficial, as it's a tool I've used extensively throughout the rest of my studies.

Beyond the technical aspects, the foundation year also helped me improve my time management and study skills, giving me the confidence to tackle first year. Overall, it made the transition to degree much smoother, and I felt far more prepared.

But the best thing about the foundation year was that it helped me transition smoothly into university life and an engineering degree. It gave me the opportunity to adjust to a new learning environment, build strong fundamental knowledge needed for the course, and discover where my strengths and interests lay. It also introduced me to a community of peers which created a supportive environment that helped me settle into university life with confidence.

What would you say to someone thinking about coming to Sheffield to study Mechanical Engineering?
Studying Mechanical Engineering at Sheffield at Sheffield equips you with amazing technical skills, hands-on experience, and opportunities to work on real-world projects, preparing you for a successful and impactful engineering career. While the course is certainly challenging, it offers the support and resources to help you thrive. The strong student culture creates a supportive and inspiring environment to grow both academically and personally.