MEng Civil Engineering, 2013, School of Civil Engineering
"The Industrial Experience module was amazing as it created networking opportunities for us to establish placement prospects."
Who are you currently working for and what does your role entail?
I work for Amey as an Assistant Structural Engineer, which involves supervising graduates, completing pre construction information, calculations/modelling work and solving a variety of bridge maintenance schemes.
To what extent did you degree set you up for your career?
My degree gave me the necessary qualifications and grounding in engineering principles, and I have learned a lot through work experience. I would recommend the Industrial Experience module as it was fundamental to the start of my career. The module was amazing, in particular the networking opportunities it created. At one such event, I was introduced to a company called Amey who gave my first placement, simply as I had asked. So the old saying is true- if you don’t ask, you don't get!
What is the best thing about the job you are doing now?
The experience I get is varied and flexible which is allowing me to gain the skills and knowledge required for my professional qualification, Chartered Engineer. It also means my day to day job remains interesting and challenging
What were the most positive and most challenging aspects of your course?
The technical aspect was definitely the most challenging but as I also enjoyed it and worked hard to achieve good results I can also say it was overall a positive experience.
What advice would you give to current students studying on the course?
Experience is everything! Not only is it a well-paid summer job to gain experience in your field, but it can help with your studies for the rest of your degree and can also give you a smoother transition into a full time job.
What was your favourite thing about the university and what is your fondest memory of your time at Birmingham?
I love the campus and the family close knit environment that comes with it. The sports facilities- and nights out- were great fun and you got to meet so many like-minded people in a vibrant city. Funnily enough, I have fond memories of our group sessions revising for exams; your time at university is so flexible and fun and cannot be replicated in the ‘real world’!