Charlie Dobson
- Subject area
- Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering
I chose to study Aeronautical Engineering at Loughborough because I liked that the course is very hands-on from the beginning. In my first year, I had the opportunity to use the test cells where I looked at the performance and efficiency of an internal combustion engine.
The course is also accredited by the Royal Aeronautical Society and the Institution of Mechanical Engineers which also played an important part in my decision to study here.
As well as the excellent reputation of the engineering courses, Loughborough’s sporting heritage also appealed to me. As a student-athlete, I knew that I would be supported here in ways that other universities could not.
I started athletics during school where I was entered into and won a district championship. In 2017, I represented my county at the English Schools’ Championships.
The following year, I received my first international vest, racing for Great Britain Juniors at the World Junior Championships where I won a silver medal in the 200m.
After that, I became a professional athlete and moved to Loughborough to study Aeronautical Engineering and continue training in an excellent venue.
Being an athlete training for the Commonwealth Games and European Championships as well as studying for my degree, the School has been incredibly supportive.
After returning from a long training session, I need to find the composure and energy required to study which at times, is difficult. However, I couldn’t have done it without the support of the University and the School which allowed me to prolong my 1-year course over 2 years which helped reduce my workload and made balancing my studying and training manageable.
The tutorial sessions have been particularly useful as they are more intimate sessions which meant I could ask much more detailed questions and get one-to-one help when needed.
The course involves various group projects that helped me learn how to work more effectively as a team member and leader which I found useful when it came to my athletics. Being part of the GB 4x400m relay team, having a good spirit and morals is important and can influence the outcome of a race.
To anyone who is thinking about studying Aeronautical Engineering, go for it. It is an incredibly rewarding and interesting course with a great environment. I am truly grateful to Loughborough as it has catered for both my sporting and academic achievements and has pushed me to be the best that I can be in all aspects of my life.