Sofia Gonzalez
- Course
- Engineering Management BEng
- Subject area
- Mechanical, Electrical and Manufacturing Engineering
I chose Loughborough University because of its unique Engineering Management programme, which stood out as one of the few in the UK that offered a blend of both engineering and business principles.
The University's facilities and campus are state-of-the-art, offering a highly conducive learning environment. Being ranked in the top 10 universities in the UK also reassured me that I would receive high-quality education and strong career prospects post-graduation.
I have found the blend of engineering and business principles particularly useful as it has equipped me with a broad skill set that can be applied across various industries such as finance, consulting, and engineering. The flexibility of the course also enables you to pursue diverse career paths or specialise further in postgraduate studies.
Since my cohort was small, I had very close academic support from module leaders and the programme director. The small class sizes also allowed me to forge closer relationships with my cohort and professors, fostering learning.
During my individual project, I researched machine learning applications in quality control. This project aligned closely with my interest in the intersection of technology and business. The findings from the research could improve manufacturing processes by integrating intelligent quality control measures.
Beyond academic staff, I also had access to career advisors and the placement team, which provided invaluable guidance for internships and career planning.
If you're someone with diverse career interests and want a mix of engineering and business knowledge, this programme is perfect. I highly recommend doing the placement year; it makes a world of difference when you graduate with one year of experience already under your belt.
I completed a placement with Dell Technologies, where I worked on a project for Jaguar Land Rover (JLR). This experience was invaluable, giving me exposure to real-world problem solving in a corporate environment. It solidified my career interests and set me apart from other candidates in terms of practical skills and experience.
Since graduating, I have begun a master's degree in Business Analytics. My time at Loughborough has given me a strong foundation in problem-solving and critical thinking, and the placement I completed enhanced my interpersonal skills.
One of the biggest highlights of studying at Loughborough has been the lifelong friendships I have made within my cohort. Additionally, the sports environment at Loughborough really pushed me physically. I went from not being very athletic in my first year to completing an Ironman by the time I graduated!