Our class was diverse in age, educational background and nationality

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

Before I even had an idea to pursue an aerospace or engineering-related subject, I was determined to become a surgeon.

My subjects were Chemistry, Biology, Languages and Psychology, and my Maths level was 'Maths Studies', the most basic of the three offered by the International Baccalaureate programme.

I had developed a strong interest in aviation, so after graduating high school, like many young people, I had trouble deciding what I should choose to study.

I was not sure about pursuing an education in Medicine and I was under-qualified to go for Aerospace engineering - last time I had taken a Physics class was in 9th grade, after which my opinion on it was 'it's just not for me'.

During my gap year I had plenty of time to explore my options. I had been to Sheffield before, I had friends who studied or graduated from the University of Sheffield and heard great things, and the Foundation Year was the best option I could have been offered.

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

Because my Mathematics foundations were shaky, and Physics knowledge virtually non-existent, Foundation Year did everything that needed to be done to fill in the gaps.

Between two Maths modules, a Physics module and weekly labs, all led by brilliant staff, everyone was soon brought up to speed. It was busier than most people anticipated, as it attempts to fit two years worth of information into two semesters, but it prepared everyone for Year 1 and beyond.

By the end of FY, we were familiar with the wide variety of lab equipment and other tools the university can offer, writing full lab reports and ready to explore future academic options.

Because Foundation Year is for students of all engineering streams, it was useful to have labs from many disciplines and get familiar with other departments

Vaiva Zokaite

MEng Aerospace Engineering with Private Pilot Instruction

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

Because Foundation Year is for students of all engineering streams, it was useful to have labs from many disciplines and get familiar with other departments.

I had never touched the subject of electronics in my life, but it is now a vital part of the Avionics stream I have chosen in 2nd year, and has helped me immensely.

I have a clear idea of what’s expected from me in reports and assignments, what citing language to use and where to seek resources.

How have you overcome challenges so far and what would be your advice to a prospective Foundation Year student?

It can be difficult to truly know where your strengths lie academically and what's the best path to choose.

Foundation Year is a chance to master subjects you haven't previously studied or excelled at, fill in any gaps in knowledge, seek out advice from academic staff and make use of the university's resources to get to where you need to be.

Some students, who previously were at the top of their class, might struggle when they realize people around them are just as sharp and hard-working, and get discouraged.

Some worry about being older and just starting their degree course. Whatever the situation may be, Foundation Year is fully equipped to assist - our class was diverse in age, educational background and nationality.

Group projects and presentations helped people get out of their comfort zone, confront uneasiness about connecting with others and gain confidence (which can also make a great interview answer once you're out in the real world). I don't know anyone who regrets choosing Foundation Year, and that says a lot about the experience.

What are your career aspirations after your degree?

I hope to become a test pilot or an aircraft technician. I have learnt my strengths and now know that I won't seek out a career in research, for example, but I am happy to have explored my options to understand what sparks my curiosity and excites me the most. But that might change as I learn and evolve - that's what university is all about.