Dylan

Engineering (Honours)
(Mechanical and Aerospace)
Master of Engineering

Degree: Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mechanical and Aerospace)/Master of Engineering

Who or what made you choose to study this?

Once I graduated, I knew I wanted to study Engineering, I just didn’t know which branch yet. After first year though, I knew I wanted to study mechanical engineering as I thoroughly enjoyed ENGG1700.

Throughout second year, my interest in mechanical engineering grew and I was introduced to the world of aerospace. The thought of working on things flying around in the sky sounded amazing, and drew me towards deciding to major in Aerospace Engineering

How did you find out about UQ?

In Year 10, I decided it was time to start considering what university I’d want to study at. After talking to my teachers at school I was introduced to UQ and the thought of studying at such a beautiful campus sounded amazing.

Did you attend any events at UQ in the lead up to choosing to come here? If so please tell us what.

In Year 12 I went to the UQ Open Day and it was great. Getting tours around the uni opened my eyes in what a beautiful campus UQ has at St Lucia. Also getting to meet Gurion Ang was great, and he really sold to me the idea of studying at UQ.

What kinds of things did you want to know when you were choosing what university to go to?

First and foremost, I wanted to know what the quality of education was like. As beautiful as UQ’s campus is, if you aren’t being taught well, it’s a waste. I also considered what courses were being offered. Lastly, the industry connections and employment opportunities were something I looked into.

Why did you choose to study at UQ?

Although other universities offered Aerospace engineering, UQ was the only one in QLD that offered Mechanical and Aerospace engineering. Furthermore, the integrated masters program gave me a pathway to an industry placement, and the prospect of completing my masters in 5 years was enticing.

What’s been your favourite course so far and why?

My favourite course so far would have to be MECH2300. In my opinion it’s the best overall course I’ve taken, whether it be the teaching staff, the course content, the pracs, or the course structure. I think a lot of the fundamental content in the course is really important for the rest of my degree, and I had a lot of fun doing it. 

Highlights of your past year at UQ

The highlight of my past year at UQ was undertaking MECH4950 (Advanced Manufacturing in Practice). It’s a special course only offered during semester breaks, and it included a one month paid study tour in Indonesia with me and 14 other students.

It was such a unique experience getting to explore what the engineering industry is like overseas and allowing yourself to be immersed in the local culture. Another thing that was great, was that I didn’t know any of the other students beforehand, so getting to spend a month overseas making new friends was a great experience I’ll never forget.

If you could give one piece of advice to someone considering studying at UQ, what would that be?

Don’t be scared to try new things! In my first year of uni I was too intimidated to go to eusconnect events, or sign up to do many society events which I now regret. Obviously you’re at uni to learn and get a degree, but don’t let that stop you from trying out new hobbies, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone, or getting to meet new people.

What do you hope to do when you graduate?

When I graduate I would love to work in the aerospace industry, particularly with rockets. My dream is to one day work for NASA. I would love my name to be floating in space one day.

Are you a member of any student societies / participate in extra curricular activities? Tell us a bit about it. 

I’m currently a member of the Mechanical Engineering Student Society (MESS) and UQ Space. As a part of MESS I’ve had the opportunity to attend both social and networking events, helping me to get to know more of my cohort and chase internship opportunities.

This past semester I also joined the MESS Mentorship program, which gave me the privilege to mentor a first year engineering student.