Lottie Dewar

Why did you originally apply to do your chosen course at Birmingham?

The main reason I chose to apply to the University of Birmingham was the shared first year between engineering disciplines. I knew I wanted to study engineering because it brought my love for science and maths together to solve practical, real-world problems, but I was unsure of which pathway I preferred.

Over the year, I experienced a variety of engineering subject areas, some of which I hadn’t even considered due to previous misconceptions. Electronic and Electrical Engineering was one of these pathways. At school, it was not a subject I had particularly enjoyed, but in my first year, I discovered an interest in the theory and skills we began to develop in this subject area. Alongside this, the diverse career opportunities in exciting and developing fields, combined with the enthusiasm of the department, led to my transfer onto the Electronic and Electrical Engineering degree at the end of the year.

What do you think are the best points of your course?

One of the best parts of my course so far was when, in the middle of Semester 1 (Year 2), we headed to Coniston in the Lake District for a few days of team building, much-needed socialising and a break from studying. A few of our lecturers joined us as we walked around the mountains and participated in activities including mountain biking, kayaking and gorge walking. It was a lot of fun and I believe there is no better way to get to know your coursemates and lecturers than when climbing up a waterfall in November.

On a more academic note, labs are a fundamental component of most modules. While they can be daunting at first, I have found that the labs have helped to develop my understanding of electronics beyond the lectures. They build practical experience, confidence with equipment and skills that are essential for many careers beyond university. This was proven in my summer internship, where I was integrated into the product testing team and trusted to undertake circuit testing with minimal supervision.

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

Beyond the beautiful campus and excellent facilities, there is a team dedicated to helping you with industry placements and your career beyond the degree. This is how I became aware of the UK Electronic Skills Foundation (UKESF) through which I am now a scholarship student interning at Collins Aerospace over the summers. I had support throughout the application process, including advice on my initial application and help preparing for my interview. Beyond this, the Careers Network offer access to careers councillors, workshops and opportunities to connect with employers.

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

Beyond my degree, being part of the University’s Athletics Club has been a highlight of my time at Birmingham. The club has given me the opportunity to train, socialise and switch off from academics while making use of the University’s outstanding sports facilities. Having access to experienced coaches, physios and high-performance training environments has played an important role in creating a balanced university experience. The University offers a wide range of societies and sports clubs, available to all abilities from beginners to Olympians.

I have been able to represent the university in a sport I love, make friends away from the Engineering Department and step away from work to swim in a 50m pool, run on the athletics track and train in the gym. In addition to this, I have had the opportunity to volunteer and work at sporting events, helping to set up electronics and audio equipment, an experience that has been both rewarding and (sometimes) paid.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying on the course?

Engineering is not an easy degree and it requires some commitment. The work is challenging and there are times when you may feel that you are not clever enough, that there is too much work and that your friends on other degrees are having a better university experience. However, if you want to push and challenge yourself, then this is an excellent choice of degree. Looking back on each year of my study, I’m always amazed at how much I have learnt. I can now code in multiple languages (when I had no prior experience starting university), I can use CAD software and crucially, I have learnt to communicate, build and develop projects as part of a team.