My year in review: Reflections on being a Civil Engineering student

As the academic year comes to an end, I’ve taken some time to reflect on everything I’ve experienced as a Civil Engineering student at the University of Birmingham. It has been a demanding yet fulfilling year, filled with academic challenges, personal growth, and valuable connections. While there were moments of stress and uncertainty, there were also many rewarding opportunities that have shaped both my academic and personal journey.

Starting the Year

At the beginning of the year, I felt quite nervous. I often found myself thinking I was the only person struggling to understand the material while others seemed more confident and prepared. I questioned whether I was smart enough for the course. However, I soon realised that these feelings were more common than I thought, and over time, I settled into the rhythm of lectures, tutorials, labs, and coursework. Getting involved in university life outside of academics made a significant difference. Joining CivSoc helped me connect with other students in my course and gave me a sense of community. I also joined in with Electrical Engineering student activities, which broadened my perspective and introduced me to new ways of thinking across disciplines.

Academic Challenges and Growth

The Civil Engineering programme is intellectually rigorous. This year, I faced particular challenges in design modules and CAD work. Initially, I found the technical aspects overwhelming, but with time and practice, I grew more confident. I even had the opportunity to mentor students in CAD, which reinforced my own learning and gave me the chance to support others. Group projects helped develop my teamwork and communication skills, while the coursework encouraged me to think creatively and apply theory to practical scenarios. I adopted new study strategies such as active recall and spaced repetition, which significantly improved my ability to retain and apply information during assessments.

Maintaining Balance Outside the Classroom

Balancing academic responsibilities with well-being was crucial. I stayed active through the Badminton Society, which gave me an outlet to recharge both physically and mentally. Engaging with different societies also exposed me to the diverse cultures within the university and made me feel more connected. Mental health is something I’ve learned to prioritise. Speaking with friends, seeking advice when needed, and being aware of the support services available on campus all played a role in managing stress. I found the University of Birmingham’s wellbeing and academic support teams approachable and understanding. If any issues arose that affected my studies, I knew I could communicate with staff or my GP and be taken seriously.

Personal Development and Resilience

This year has been transformative in terms of personal development. I’ve learned how to cope with academic pressure, seek help when needed, and remain consistent in the face of setbacks. Most importantly, I’ve discovered the value of focusing on progress rather than perfection.

Looking Ahead

In the year ahead, I hope to explore placement opportunities and deepen my understanding of digital tools commonly used in engineering practice. I also plan to stay active in societies and take a more supportive role in helping new students adjust to university life.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on this past year, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. It wasn’t easy, but it was certainly worthwhile. Civil Engineering is a challenging field, but the skills and experiences it offers are incredibly rewarding. For anyone beginning this journey, my advice is to stay open-minded, make the most of the support available, and remember that growth takes time. You’re not alone, and things do get better with patience, persistence, and community.