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Undergraduate study

Our students

Matthew Allison

BEng Tech (Hons) Mechanical Engineering (Top-up)

The course helps me become a more rounded individual to solve problems and build resilience.

Matthew Allison

Why university?

I’d just finished my HND Mechanical Engineering (by Flexible Open Learning) when I was made redundant at work, so it seemed like the perfect opportunity to carry on studying and top-up my qualification to a degree.

Why Teesside?

It’s my local university, the staff are helpful and many of my friends studied here before going on to have successful careers.

Why mechanical engineering?

I wanted a diverse course that would challenge me in maths, science, technology and engineering. Mechanical engineering has so many applications, which works for me as I like to keep moving, taking on new challenges, seeing the world and meeting new people. The course helps me become a more rounded individual to solve problems and build resilience.

Best thing about your course?

I get to cover so many different areas from software design through to quality assurance. I particularly enjoy learning about software design, computer analysis and research for my final year project. I get to see the research that others have developed globally and how they’ve offered solutions to some of the same challenges I’ve faced. I don’t think I’ll ever get bored of the sector.

Tell us about the facilities

The resources are great, both in the Library and the engineering department. I’ve been able to bring my concepts to life with practical simulations.

Best thing about Middlesbrough?

Middlesbrough is a really developing town, with new industry and technologies growing all the time. Teesside University is at the heart of this growth and I’m hoping that my children are a part of it in the years to come.

What do you get involved in outside of your studies?

I’m part of the Institution of Engineering and Technology, supporting new members with advice on becoming incorporated or chartered engineers.

What skills have you gained?

So many technical skills including software modelling, analysis and simulation for fluid dynamics and structural assessment, detailed research, quality assurance, reliability of equipment, and the application of statistical analysis. I’ve also increased my maths and engineering knowledge, and I’ve developed key transferrable skills such as teamworking.

Future plans?

I’d like to get back into full-time work in a leadership role or apply for a master’s in mechanical or reliability engineering.

Would you recommend Teesside University?

Definitely, especially given how flexible they are. I took a bridging course to improve my maths before I started the BEng Tech (Hons) and the lecturers were so supportive. Plus, the campus is really modern with great facilities.

What advice would you give to others?

Work hard, learn from regional industry and ask lots of questions. And if you come to Teesside, take advantage of the countryside, it’s right on your doorstep.

 
 
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