"Knowing that I wanted to work in research and develop products, engineering was an obvious career choice. Edinburgh’s School of Engineering was ideal for pursuing this interest."
Sydney Charitos, MEng Electronics and Computing Science Engineering student
When I was younger, I had trouble with a poor memory. This led me to appreciate subjects where theories are built upon one another. Most STEM subjects have similar base theories. I enjoyed using building blocks to unlock more complex topics. STEM subjects became a place where my my memory trouble couldn't hold me back, and where my passion for learning could grow.
What I thought would be a difficult choice between engineering and physics was surprisingly clear. Knowing that I wanted to work in research and develop products, engineering was an obvious career choice. Edinburgh’s School of Engineering was ideal for pursuing this career interest. The open day introductory lecture at the School was full of positive energy and genuine passion for the subject.
During my time at the School of Engineering, I have experienced that enthusiasm for myself and continue to do so. I chose the general engineering course – which is a one-year course that feeds into another degree program, as I wanted to develop a good background and foundation in a range of engineering disciplines. The general engineering course allowed me to experience what is available through some of the engineering degree programs without feeling locked into a specific engineering subject. I also chose to study a computer science module as an optional course. After my first year of studies, I moved onto an electronics and computer science MEng degree program, as I enjoyed these topics very much.
I’ve always felt well supported by the School of Engineering department at Edinburgh. During my second year of studies, I was awarded an Electronics and Electrical Engineering scholarship due to my A-Level and first year grades. Receiving this award encouraged me to keep pushing myself in my academic journey. The School also has great links to industry. I believe my application and successful placement at Analog Devices would’ve been much harder without the support of the School of Engineering. I have also greatly benefitted from the School's updates on external scholarships. This year I am applying for the Royal Academy of Engineering (RAE) Leaders scholarship. This is something that I wouldn’t have been aware of without the School's help and guidance.
During the third year of my Meng degree, I was selected to go to Singapore on the Go Abroad scheme. While in Singapore I discovered my passion for robotics. This led me to pursue robotics when I returned from Singapore. However, my interest in robotics made the decision of my Masters project difficult. Do I study informatics or engineering? While deciding on which topic to pursue, the school of engineering began to introduce me to the companies that would take on Master’s projects. The ease of application made the experience very enjoyable and I was offered a summer placement at Analog Devices. As a joint degree student, I have at times been worried that I may “fall through the cracks” when trying to secure suitable work experience. However, the School of Engineering department has always made me feel comfortable enough to reach out for guidance.
My time at Analog was a pleasure as I received great support, stimulating work and friendly colleagues that made me feel at ease. While I felt Analog was a great opportunity, I knew I wanted to continue my studies into research rather than in industry. I chose to do my masters project in robotics under the title ‘Robomorphism’ with Carlo Tiseo.
I am currently in my penultimate year of my MEng degree, and have hopes to follow my interest in robotics and study towards a PhD in the field.
