Sanya

Year of Study: Second year
Qualification(s): MEng
Course: Materials Science and Engineering

Sanya has recently completed the second year of her Materials Science and Engineering degree. Here, she reflects about what she's achieved so far, as well as why she decided to choose Loughborough for her studies. 

"When researching what I wanted to do at university, Materials Science seemed to cover the aspects of science that I enjoyed most. Loughborough University was well ranked in all aspects (academically and for student satisfaction) and covered a wide range of topics within the niche field of materials. Once I visited on the open day, I fell in love with the campus and knew this was the university for me.

The facilities here at Loughborough are excellent and really enrich the learning experience. The STEM lab and LMCC have allowed me to put the theory I’ve learnt into practice, which gives me a fuller understanding of the topic at hand.

Support at Loughborough is never too far away, whether that be academic support or personal support. The department provides access to the Maths Learning Support Centre which ensures that students without a similar maths background are not disadvantaged, and lecturers are always willing to answer any questions you may have. The university have excellent support for student’s welfare and mental being.

Currently, I hope to work within the field of medical materials. This consists of developing or enhancing materials to make medical procedures safer and more efficient. The Materials department allows you to pick optional modules after first year, and this will allow me to tailor my degree towards the field I’m most interested in, therefore broadening my knowledge in that topic.

During my time at university, I had the opportunity to become a Team Leader for a Loughborough Students' Union Rag Trip! This involved leading a team of around 30 students whilst dog sledding across three countries in the Arctic Circle, all whilst raising upwards of £50,000 for the National Autistic Society. Unfortunately this trip couldn’t go ahead in the end due to the pandemic, but I’m looking forward to it next year!

I became involved in Rag (the fundraising section) in my first year when I was elected as my halls representative. Since then I’ve had the opportunity to be involved in so many amazing events with this section. I also was elected social secretary for AACME, giving me the opportunity to organise socials for the department.

I’m about to start my placement year with Procter & Gamble, and I’m looking forward to the experience of working in industry.

Loughborough has taught me to never let any obstacle stop you or slow you down! It always teaches all students to strive for the best version of themselves that they can be.

My advice for anyone thinking about studying this course? I’d encourage them to take up every opportunity to attend career fairs and extra talks!"