I chose materials science and engineering because of its ability to incorporate maths and all the sciences.

Why did you choose your course? 

I chose materials science and engineering because of its ability to incorporate maths and all the sciences. I found it fascinating how it can be applied to any industry and was excited about the potential prospects post-study. In terms of studying materials science and engineering at Sheffield, coming to the open days and offer holder days really sold it for me. I think the facilities are great, and everyone manages to maintain the friendly and welcoming atmosphere whilst also making Sheffield one of the top places to study materials science in the country.

What have you enjoyed most about your course so far?

I’ve really enjoyed the amount of hands-on experience I’ve had so far. I am in the start of my 3rd year of the 4-year Masters industrial stream, and already I feel as if I have a lot of experience using different machinery and useful skills for industry. This builds up from your first and second year completing lab work from across the materials science spectrum, including more industrial-based labs such as glass making and steel forging. And extends throughout the course when you start to complete Industrial Training Programmes in your third and fourth year; communicating with industry and experimenting to come up with solutions to real world problems. 

What do you think about Sheffield as a city?

I really love being a student in Sheffield. Again, I think everyone here is really welcoming and friendly which creates a nice environment wherever you go. There’s such a range you can do here in the day and night times whilst being surrounded by so many green spaces and not feeling like you’re trapped in a big city. Out of all the cities I’ve been to I definitely feel the safest in Sheffield, and the peak district being 10 minutes outside is just another bonus.

Are you part of any student societies or project groups? 

I take part in the materials society (matsoc) football team in a 6-a-side and 11-a-side inter-departmental league. We also go on socials about 2/3 times a semester which is always really fun. It’s always a good laugh and a great opportunity to meet people on the course in years above/below.

What do you plan to do after completing your degree?

I plan on getting a job within the materials science sector. I’m not sure what specifically yet but my interests in the field are glass and textile technologies, and it would also be a bonus to be working on something environmental based.

What advice would you give to a younger student  considering studying engineering at university?

I believe if you’ve enjoyed these subjects in previous study you will definitely enjoy them at university, gaining a deeper understanding of them whilst also seeing how they are applied to the real world. Coming to university gives you a great opportunity to get involved with any activities you want; from any sports you’ve always wanted to try to all the cool extracurricular student-led STEM projects on offer. On top of this, university gives you the opportunity to meet people from all different backgrounds and make friends from across the world.