Why did you originally apply to Birmingham?
I don’t think my application came down to any one reason I applied to the University of Birmingham, just a combination of factors which ticked all the boxes. The Engineering course offered a good range of flexibility in terms of the topics and course length. The mixture of a campus University a short train journey from the centre of the City looked like a great place to spend my time at university. On a personal note, both my Dad and Grandad studied Mechanical Engineering so I already had a couple of positive reviews!
What are your fondest memories of the University?
The most endearing memory from my time at Birmingham would be the first time I saw a Formula Student car run. During my first year of university I had mainly helped with the manufacturing and assembly of the car. Despite not having designed any of the car’s components, I still felt I was part of the team! After working what felt like non-stop since exams finished at the beginning of June, to finally see the car up and running was very special.
Did you get involved in any extracurricular activities as a student?
One of the most rewarding and enjoyable aspects of my time at university was being involved with the Formula Student Team, UBRacing. I was fortunate enough to work on a number of different areas of the car and, as a result, I developed my understanding of a number of the subjects being taught as part of my degree, as well as gained a range of different skills not featured on the syllabus. Having the chance to work on a project from the design phase through to seeing the finished car running on track, and being involved with the various steps in between was hugely rewarding and a useful grounding for my future career.
What advice would you give to students?
University offers a great opportunity to try something new and learn a range of new skills in a safe environment surrounded by people who are willing to help you. I’d therefore encourage any undergraduate to make the most of opportunities available between the course, extra-curricular activities and societies as you never know what you might learn or where it might lead to.