What attracted you to the University of Edinburgh and this programme, in particular?
The university offers an easy road to change degrees within engineering in the first year which is something I looked for. Above that, the university has a suite of services for students, whether dance and music societies, sports, or the Maker Spaces around the campuses, there’s never a lack of resources or support.
What do you wish you'd worried about less about coming to university?
Moving to a new city, I was worried I would find it difficult meeting people and making friends. Luckily, that didn’t last long. The university’s Welcome Weeks make it easy to meet others in the same position, whether undergraduate or postgrad. Through societies and sports it was a breeze finding people with similar interests and making friends.
What aspects of student life do you enjoy the most and why?
It’s very easy to be social. The city is dense and easy to get around by walking, bike or bus (which is free until age 22!), so one is ever too far away. There’s also always something to do, a new café to pop into, a bookshop to explore or a spring day to enjoy in the meadows. Additionally, university timetables have always left time between and after classes so even in times with high workload there’s always time to de-stress with friends
What do you find most challenging and most rewarding about your programme?
Time management was always a problem for me. Remembering deadlines and keeping up with dates took some getting used to but it makes all the difference in feeling comfortable in your degree. Once that’s figured out it’s amazing how everything can fall into place.
What is your favourite course so far and why?
In first year, I took an elective called Discovering Astronomy, I found it super interesting and extremely well taught. Best of all, it offered me an opportunity to expand my learning beyond my degree.
How is your programme equipping you for your future career?
Courses are taught with an overwhelming emphasis on applying skills. In group projects, teaching staff take a back-seat approach, allowing students to develop their skills independently and learn to lead themselves, while still guiding them in the right direction. The degree also includes several mandatory personal and professional development courses that build on everything from interpersonal communication to CV writing and job applications.
What one thing would you recommend new students at the University of Edinburgh do?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! While one certainly has to be able to work independently, there’s no shortage of support, whether it be from the university (e.g. student support services or chaplaincy), or reaching out to staff or other students. There’s always someone to lend a hand here when the going gets tough.
