Maya Patel

Why did you originally apply to do MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year at Birmingham?

I was attracted by the shared first year for mechanical, electrical and civil engineering students because I was unsure which discipline I wanted to specialise in. I chose to study mechanical engineering because of the range of topics it covers and I found that my interests fell towards the more automotive side of engineering. I already knew that I enjoyed the city and the campus because my sister also attended the University. Furthermore, the careers support and industrial links that the engineering department provides exceeded those at other universities I was interested in.

What do you think are the best points of MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year?

The best thing is the ability to work in teams with students studying other disciplines. Each year, the integrated design project module accurately mimics what working in industry is like which I believe is a good experience to have to smooth the transition from studying to entering the workforce. Mechanical engineering is a broad subject, and the content of the course is topical, for example one of the things I've studied was looking at the effects on climate change on certain design parameters.

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

The best thing about studying at the University is the campus, it's beautiful. Looking out at the redbrick domed buildings is not a bad view when studying! The University is located very close to the city centre and the train station on-campus is very convenient for getting into Birmingham. There is such a big sense of community amongst the students straightaway from first year. The Vale Village for first year student accommodation and Selly Oak for subsequent years means that you never live further than a 10-minute walk away from friends.

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

The highlight in terms of my course, I would have to say, has been completing an assignment in my first year where we had to work in a team to create a truss structure which could withstand 4 kN of force. I remember the process of designing and making the structure being very enjoyable, and overall my team came 4th for maximum load capability. But generally, I can’t think of just one highlight, since I’ve had so many enjoyable experiences at university.

What advice would you give to students thinking about studying MEng Mechanical Engineering with Industrial Year?

Join EPS (College of Engineering and Physical Sciences) societies! Not only are they a way of contextualising the theory learnt in modules, but they’re also a brilliant way of meeting like-minded people. They are also a good addition to your CV as a way of showing what experience you have. Even the non-academic societies are a great way of making friends outside of your direct social circle.