Student Profile - Aris Kapsanakis


MEng Civil and Energy Engineering, School of Civil Engineering

Aris "The variety of extracurricular activities was a great, positive surprise when I arrived here."  

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

I was already familiar with the profession as both my parents worked in civil engineering. That encouraged me a lot to begin a career in the area.

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

It can really equip you with a lot of skills that are useful in every aspect of your life, whether it is professional or personal. The very fact that the skills cover a variety of areas makes the course a strong and adequate foundation for a variety of professions.

The course also provides many opportunities to engage in teamworking and collaborative projects. Since it will be in teams that most of us will be working in the future -maybe even in the same ones-, this opportunity is invaluable.

It has to be mentioned that the geotechnical department in Civil Engineering here is undoubtedly one of the best in the country as it features some great names in the industry, and research here is of the highest calibre.

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

Personally, the variety of extracurricular activities was a great, positive surprise when I arrived here. Societies and sports clubs provide an awesome opportunity to get active and have enjoy a great university career. Being involved in running them, though, through student committees gives you a early and unique taste of what it is like to create something from scratch and work with others to make it great among others.
Honourable mention is owed to the great campus here. It takes university life to another level.

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

I urge everyone to get involved as much as possible within the university. The time here feels shorter than it looks, and in the end, great memories stay when it’s over.

Is there anything extra students thinking about studying on the course should know?

Never miss the statics and soils lectures! You’ll thank me later.