Foundation year students have access to all university facilities

What drew you to apply and accept a place on the Foundation Year (FY)?

While completing my A-levels I was offered a place on the electronic and electrical engineering course at the University of Sheffield.

I had always had my heart set on the university but after not quite meeting my original offer, I was contacted to consider the possibility of transferring to the foundation year.

How did FY help to prepare you for Year 1 study and beyond?

Taking part in the foundation year allowed me to gain a more comprehensive understanding of other engineering disciplines.

By introducing you more slowly to some of the softer engineering skills including report writing, giving presentations and communicating within teams, the foundation year puts you in a great place for continuing with the rest of your degree and further career.

The networking opportunities I took advantage of during the foundation year will allow me to gain access to a more varied career in the future

Arthur Loukes

MEng Electronic Engineering with a Year in Industry

What were the big learning points for you during your FY?

One of the most impressive parts of the foundation year and the wider university is access to both internal and external student support services.

Foundation year students are treated the same as all other students, with access to all university facilities and support networks. Staff are extremely approachable and quickly respond to queries and concerns.

Alongside providing you with a range of engineering and course-related experiences, the foundation year gives you an additional year to find your feet before your university course really begins. After completing the foundation year, I knew my way around the university and most of the city.

What are your favourite things about studying in Sheffield?

The city of Sheffield is incredibly diverse and has something for everyone. Being in the centre of the UK, Sheffield has great connections all over the country.

What has the wider University offered you in terms of support and student community?

By utilising the university's extensive connections within the industry and excellent job-finding services I was able to easily secure some part-time work. This work allowed me to put the skills I had learnt at university to practice straight away.

What are your career aspirations after your degree?

After obtaining my degree I hope to continue working in heavy industry while gaining more experience abroad. I hope that the networking opportunities I took advantage of during the foundation year will allow me to gain access to a more varied career in the future.