Sanmaré van der Bijl
Mathematics (with Masters, Placement and Foundation Years)
The community at Loughborough is like no other. There really is a place for everyone.
Why did you choose to study at Loughborough University?
I loved the opportunities that the university had to get involved with alongside studying, specifically the large range of sport and volunteering opportunities. As well as, the university’s ties to industry, which helped to make the path following university less daunting.
What made you choose a foundation pathway?
I was unwell during college, meaning I could only complete 2 A Levels, as I needed a reduced timetable to manage my health. When considering coming to university both doctors and teachers were concerned about the intense schedule university demanded. So, a foundation year seemed perfectly suited for bridging the gap between college and University, in a supportive environment, whilst still being able to go to university and take the next steps in adulthood like my friends going onto bachelor’s degrees.
Did you come on an open day and/or applicant visit day? If so, how did that influence your decision to study at Loughborough?
I came to both an open day and applicant day at Loughborough University. Seeing the campus, departments and their facilities was incredible, but meeting staff and students really made me feel welcome. All in all, Loughborough University was an environment that I couldn’t wait to be a part of.
What did you enjoy most about being a Loughborough student?
The people! The community at Loughborough is like no other. There really is a place for
everyone.
What did you enjoy most about your course?
I’d have to say the people, they make all the difference to how you feel about the course day to day, I felt supported and knew that should I need any help with how to approach my studies or help with adapting to uni life, I always had someone I could talk to.
Do you think that the foundation year added value to your studies?
Yes definitely! Foundation year set me up for further studies both in terms of my attitude towards my studies but also with how best to study for my style of learning. I found foundation year fully developed me in both these areas, making a massive positive impact for all my years of study afterwards.
What advice would you give to someone considering foundation studies at Loughborough?
Approach foundation studies at Loughborough with an open mind, attend an open day and meet the team. You will be thoroughly impressed.
What did you think about the facilities at Loughborough?
The facilities at Loughborough are second to none. There are constantly areas on campus that are being developed to better enhance the facilities that are already there. I know I found the improvements made to the study spaces, really helped my friends and I with having the tools needed to tackle our degrees.
What have you been up to since graduating?
Since graduating, I have started working as a software engineer for Rolls-Royce.