Sophie first heard of engineering courses accredited by The Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) through her course director at the start of her University year.
“I was looking for some additional financial support and googled bursary available which is where I came across IET Bursary’s. I had applied for a different bursary but was declined and was given the Engineering Horizons one as an alternative.”
Taking influence from her love for Formula 1 racing from the age of 7/8. Sophie found that as she grew up she became more curious about the workings of the cars. Fascinated with the speed and precision of the pit stop teams, Sophie became intrigued with the work of Mechanical Engineers.
“I took the route of doing a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering where I gained DISTINCTION* DISTINCTION DISTINCTION which is the A level equivalent of A*AA.”
For Sophie, the bursary is a massive help with her studies and travels to and from University. Currently working a part time job alongside her studies due to decreased financial support from Student Finance, she was able to buy the books and CAD software needed to aid me during my studies, which in turn will help her fulfil her potential and achieve her desired final mark of 2.1.
Sophie chose her degree after looking into the best routs to take in order to progress towards her end goal. Openly admitting, Sophie desires to focus on the Automotive end of Engineering as her speciality.
“Mechanical Engineering opens a lot of different doors as there is an extensive range of sectors you can go into. I look forward to the CAD modules and Design and Industrial Applications modules as I take great interest in creating a design and seeing it come to life.”
Sophie’s ambition is to one day become a Formula 1 assembly engineer, working alongside some of the best in the business. “My goal is ambitious, but I am willing to do whatever it takes to get to where I want to be. “
As far as advise for future applicants, Sophie recommends taking the risk and applying for what you truly want to do. To not let people interfere with your end goal and always listen to your heart.
