Aziz Bagdas

Why did you originally apply to do BEng Mechanical Engineering at Birmingham?

Unlike any other UK university, it had an integrated foundation year. Also, all my point of contacts with the university during my application were very engaged and friendly. That helped greatly during my application. The integrated foundation year allowed me to seamlessly transition to my chosen degree. I really enjoy what I am studying and I believe choosing the University of Birmingham was one of the best decision I ever made.

What do you think are the best points of BEng Mechanical Engineering?

There are project modules in every semester for you to practice the theoretical knowledge you gain from other modules. These projects range from individual design projects to large-scale group projects where students from different degrees in the same cohort work together. These project modules are what I enjoy the most in my degree because you get to experience what it is like to work and manage engineering projects. You also get to create something that you can later add to your portfolio.

What’s the best thing about studying at the University of Birmingham?

The staff and the lecturers. They are always there to support you, answer your questions or provide feedback. They are eager to help you learn. Secondly, I think the school’s reputation and the industry connections. The lecturers have a broad range of experience in industry and are experts in what they do. We also frequently get guest lecturers and employer events, so the connections and networks you will have by the end of your degree are immensely valuable.

What’s your highlight of your time at the University?

I must say the highlights of my time at the university are the friends and memories I have made. Join a sports society and learn something you never done before or participate in the Formula Student Team and see a car you helped design win a race. There are lots of things to do and that allowed to me meet so many great people and make so many great memories.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying BEng Mechanical Engineering?

Just go for it. You certainly won’t regret it. The first year is the same for all engineering degrees so you can figure out what you want to do while studying if you are not sure now.

Is there anything extra students thinking about studying BEng Mechanical Engineering should know?

You must work hard and be self-disciplined to be successful. Remember that the modules you will have in later semesters are all going to be based on the knowledge you are supposed to gain from your previous ones. For example, in my final year project, I used a software I learned to use in my first year. It always adds up so make sure to learn.