The course is definitely challenging, but very rewarding
Why did you choose your course?
Growing up on a dairy farm and using a variety of farm machinery, I became fascinated by how things worked, and so decided to study Mechanical Engineering. I enjoyed Maths and Physics at school, but enjoyed applying logic to everyday problems, and so going into engineering seemed like a natural choice. German was also one of my favourite subjects at school, hence my decision to study 'with German'.
What have you enjoyed most about your course?
I have enjoyed the wide range of modules studied, particularly the optional modules in 3rd and 4th year. For example, I picked a renewable energy module last year, which wasn't something I had studied before, but found very interesting! And following on from that, I have studied a Sustainable Design module this year, which aims to prompt us to ask the right questions of designs, policies and decisions as engineers, to ensure the world continues to make progress towards our sustainability goals.
What made you choose Sheffield over other universities?
I picked Sheffield because of the option to study Mechanical Engineering with German - no other universities I could find offered language classes to this level alongside engineering, as well as a year study abroad in the foreign language. Unfortunately, my year abroad was cancelled due to the pandemic. However, I am still keen to practise my German skills and live/ work in Germany. For this reason, I reached out to a German-owned company based in Sheffield last summer and was lucky enough to work for them as a summer placement. I am now returning to work for them as a Technical Project Engineer, and will spend 3 months next year working at their office in Germany.
What do you think about Sheffield as a city?
I think Sheffield as a city is great! Coming from a rural/ farming background, I was slightly concerned about moving to the city and how I would find the transition. As much as it is a cliché, which everyone mentions, it is great to have the Peak District so close by, and Sheffield does have plenty of nice parks too. Also, I think the transition was made easier for me because of how friendly and inclusive Sheffield university and SU is. There is definitely something for everyone to get involved in and I have made a lot of great friends.
Are you part of any student societies or project groups?
I joined the Railway Challenge team in my first year at university and was promoted to 'Mechanical Systems Team Leader' in my third year and overall 'Team Principal' this year. I have very much enjoyed being part of the team and feel grateful for the opportunities I have had to practise my teamwork and leadership skills. Although the role of Team Principal has been a challenging one, I feel the team has put in a lot of effort this year and we have made some great progress.
