Anna Jackson

What undergraduate course did you study and where?

BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering at Northumbria University.

Why did you decide to study a Masters? 

A Masters degree allows me to gain the specialist knowledge and experience required to progress further in my career. It is also an ambition of mine to become a chartered engineer with the IMechE, and the Masters will contribute towards that achievement.

Why did you choose Northumbria University? Why did you choose your specific course?

Northumbria is a fantastic university in the heart of the city. It offers all of the facilities and support networks needed to obtain a high quality degree. There is also a variety of recreational activities, clubs and sports to get involved with to complete the student experience. Engineering is a challenging subject full of variety and opportunity. I was particularly drawn to the technical aspects of the course, as I have always enjoyed maths and science. I found that being able to apply this knowledge to practical applications and design gives me a great level of satisfaction. A degree in engineering also gives me full control over my career progression, as a variety of employment opportunities are available to explore.

What was it like studying at Northumbria? 

Both the BEng and MSc Mechanical Engineering courses are taught using a variety of methods. Typically the learning time will be split between lectures and seminars. Seminars are particularly useful to consolidate any learning, since interaction with the tutors is encouraged. It is also common to complete practical workshops in the laboratories allowing students a hands-on experience. The assessment is also varied consisting of examinations, group projects, presentations and written assignments.

How connected is your course with industry? Do you have the opportunity of a placement, or work on projects?

Northumbria University gives students many opportunities to make industrial contacts and encourages workplace experience. It is common for industry experts to present guest lectures and regularly attend careers fairs. During my BEng Mechanical Engineering degree here at Northumbria I completed a one-year industrial placement at BAE Systems Submarine Solutions. Due to the success of this year, I will be returning to BAE Systems on the Sigma Engineering Leadership Programme upon graduation. I was also able to collaborate with BAE Systems when completing my dissertation, allowing me to gain specialist knowledge in the field of noise and vibration.

What impressed you most about our academic staff?

I have always found the staff at Northumbria to be helpful and approachable, with the students' best interest at heart. It is partially due to the support I have received over the past four years from the academic and support staff, that I have remained at Northumbria to complete my Masters degree. Most staff have years of industrial experience which is often shared as a valuable teaching aid.

As a postgraduate student, what aspects of university life are important to you?

At postgraduate level I find that the facilities available at the University are an important part of my study. Northumbria has dedicated postgraduate learning spaces, filled with high specification computers, printers and software. Other facilities such as the 3D printing suite are particularly useful when developing prototype designs.

What doors do you think this course will open for you?

The MSc Mechanical Engineering degree is fully accredited by the Institute of Mechanical Engineers, this will help my application when applying to become a chartered engineer.

Have you changed as a person?

Over the past five years studying at Northumbria I have developed into a young professional. I have been given all of the skills needed to become a success in industry and I'm now looking forward to beginning my journey.

How would you describe Northumbria in three words?

Fun, innovative, inspirational.

Do you feel that your course has been a worthwhile investment in your future?

Definitely.