The most valuable thing I’ve learned during my time at Loughborough is to trust the process and let it take the time it needs. Nothing happens overnight and you can’t expect it to. There is a definite beauty in waiting.
I originally chose to study Industrial Design, but after my first year I decided to change to Mechanical Engineering. Due to my lack of Maths and Physics A-levels, a Foundation Year was necessary for me to get onto the full degree course, so that’s what I went on to do.
My foundation year was fantastic. I had so much fun and learnt so much. I thought the way in which the lectures were taught and the fact that it bridged the gap between A-levels and university was excellent. The lecturers’ communication with each other, ensuring no Physics content was taught without the relevant Maths, was great. The pizza days and other general Foundation activities were also brilliant.
The transition from the Foundation year to the full degree was exciting. I believe the Foundation year was the perfect stepping stone to enable me to be able to slip straight into university with not only the knowledge of the course, but also the knowledge of how the university ran and what was expected of me going forward.
Now I’ve graduated, I will be starting a job with Mace Construct in September as an MEP (Mechanical, Electrical & Public Health) Engineer. I am also looking to develop my own clothing businesses that I started in my Foundation year: one that develops technology within clothing, and the other which produces customised garments for people.
There has never been a dull day during my time at Loughborough. I have had so many opportunities in so many different areas, from education to business to sport. I worked part time throughout my course, as a bouncer, a tutor, and a Student Ambassador, as well as starting my two clothing companies.
Professionally, these experiences have helped me gain good networking and leadership skills, while personally, I have built my confidence and my brand image.
If you’re thinking about doing a Foundation year at Loughborough, do it! It is the perfect stepping stone between school and university. It is also a way to keep your opportunities open, learn great new skills, and meet like-minded people.
My time at Loughborough University has been a defining, high-energy chapter that perfectly balanced rigorous education and entrepreneurial ventures with competitive sport and unforgettable fun.