Where did you first hear about the Engineering Academy?

I was emailed on SQA results day after my conditional offer still needed to be met. It was suggested that I apply for the Engineering Academy.

What made you apply to the Engineering Academy?

After doing some research on the programme, I realised it was an excellent alternative route as I was still a 1st year university student as I wanted to be. I also got additional support to develop my weaker subjects in school which are essential for a successful career in engineering.

Do you think your year in college helped prepare you for joining University?

Absolutely. It was great to make close friendships with students who would join other departments in Year 2. The weekly lectures at university also allowed us to create close friendships with students who would be in my course for the next 4 years.

Have you had any placements or internships?

I successfully completed an internship with Entrepreneurial Scotland’s Saltire Programme, which I would recommend to anyone. The internship was with SharkNinja at their headquarters in Boston, Massachusetts.

For 10 weeks during summer I worked on the New Product Development Team for Shark, engineering the next generation of household cleaning appliances.

The role involved sketching, prototyping and visualising new models. I was able to apply my technical and creative knowledge while at the same time, I gained strong confidence in my engineering abilities.

On graduation day, I was lucky enough to receive the Astrid Yeates Award for best placement performance.

For 10 weeks during summer I worked on the New Product Development Team for Shark, engineering the next generation of household cleaning appliances.

Were you part of any University groups or societies?

I was involved in the Strathclyde Travel Society, the DMEM Society, and the Undergraduate Engineering Ball Committee.

What has been your favourite part of studying at Strathclyde?

The opportunities it has provided. It is an incredibly well-connected university. I have taken full advantage of everything the university has to offer. From studying abroad at DTU in Copenhagen, to interning in the USA, I could never have imagined the things I would achieve.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the mentorship opportunities Strathclyde has provided, from being trained and set up as a mentor to an S6 pupil who needed maths tutoring and UCAS advice to being paired with a DMEM Alumni who graduated 20 years prior. I met with him every week to go over job opportunities, CV and assessment centre advice and dissertation help. My experience studying at Strathclyde has been incredible.

I am extremely thankful to the university and the Engineering Academy for reaching out and encouraging me to apply.

What are your future plans?

I have been lucky enough to receive awards for my engineering contributions and have lined up an incredible position as an Engineering Graduate with Nissan in Sunderland, starting in August. I am excited about achieving alumni status and look forward to giving back to the university in any way that I can throughout my career.