Our students

Why Teesside University?

I was part of a science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) programme at school where we visited Teesside’s engineering department. I saw the different courses they offered and experienced the types of facilities I would use if I was a student.

Why civil engineering?

I’ve always wanted a career in engineering and after completing my A-levels I took part in summer placements and work experience to find out more about the different disciplines I could specialise in.

Best thing about your course?

The course is well structured, allowing you to develop not only academic skills but practical skills through industry site visits and lab sessions. I’ve been able to apply what I learnt to real-world scenarios.

Tell us about the careers service

The assessment centres were really helpful in supporting me to develop my CV and cover letters, and they offered support with employment skills.

Best thing about living in the region?

I am local but chose to live in University accommodation. This gave me the best of both worlds, allowing me to be close to my family in my local town but having the independence of living on my own.

What are you doing now?

I specialise in transportation, providing support with design and construction projects on highways, car parks and rail stations. I am currently seconded to Network Rail working in their asset management team.

As part of my role I’m also a STEM co-ordinator, supervising work experience and summer placement students and organising STEM events in local schools and colleges. I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experiences with others while raising awareness of the subject.

Day to day duties?

Duties change depending on the scheme or project I’m involved in.

I’ve assisted with design reviews of the A14 Cambridge to Huntingdon improvement scheme.

As part of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority scheme I worked on the delivery and resourcing of Thorpe Park rail project, with a specific focus on implementing a new highways design.

I assist in the production of drawings and models, carry out document control and utilise reports and graphs to track specific elements of schemes and projects.

Future ambitions?

I’m studying a distance learning MSc in Transport Planning and Engineering with Edinburgh Napier University with a view to achieving chartered status.

Would you recommend Teesside University?

Yes, Teesside University provides the complete university experience. You have the chance to get involved in a range of clubs and societies, take part in new experiences and build transferable skills. My university experience was a success, I felt fully prepared for a career in engineering with the added skills developed from extracurricular activities.