Undergraduate Engineer Review

We have two days of lectures and 3 days in the workplace each week. On Lecture days we have 2 morning lectures then ‘free’ time in the afternoon to complete problem sets, coursework and labs. On workplace days it mainly depends on which rotation you are but generally you interact with the team and work on a side project closely related to what your team do.

I have developed my communication skills, both in the workplace with managers and co-workers, as well as in academics with my peers and lecturers. In the academics I have learnt concepts relative to maths, programming, electronics and mechanics. Which I have then had an opportunity to put into practice in the workplace. I have also developed my knowledge of how a product is developed and the working of a engineering company.

I really enjoy the workplace. Everyone from managers, to co-workers and peers in other years are really supportive. They are all willing to offer their time to explain concepts and help you develop as an engineer. Academically as this is the first year, there have been some teething problems. However, when brought to attention people seem willing to solve these. There is a lot to do so it can be quite stressful. The accommodation is lovely and very convenient. Overall, I have enjoyed the experience.

The course has clearly been thought through and Dyson has been running an apprenticeship for a few years now. On the apprenticeship side, they are very well organised with excellent tracking of progress and KSBs. Managers have projects planned for you - which are usually at the right level and engaging. Academically the modules don't always line up. However, within the module, the lecturers are generally well organised.

MAnagers are very supportive - especially at the start of the rotation. They arrange regular one-to-ones to talk about progress and challenges. They are always willing to help. There is also regular apprenticeship meeting with the relevant personnel. Academically, lecturers are willing to help, however, you do have to take action and reach out when needed. There are also student support advice and tutors to offer additional support and guidance. Sometimes you do have to chase people to get answers - nothing seems to happen too quickly.

As the Dyson Institute is so closely linked with Dyson. They are very supportive of the academics as they are the ones who created the course. However, they do try and keep the two separate - you don't do academic work in study time or work in study time - which can be frustrating at times. However, they do try to make academics relate to the workplace.

The academics and the workplace link very closely. The workplace often corresponds to academics and the academics correspond to the workplace. In general the workplace is usually slightly ahead of academics but this allows you to develop your knowledge and make academics easier later on in the course. Without academics, I wouldn't have the basic knowledge to apply in workplace.

There are plenty of clubs to get involved in from robotics to climbing. The UEC social commit also organises regular activities at a discounted price as well as nights out to local cities. There are also several networking events and volunteering activities to take part in. As well as roles with responsibilities e.g. academic reps to apply for. Also as undergrads at the pods we often organise our own activities including baking competitions, movie nights and parties.

Yes

It is an excellent opportunity to combine the academic and workplace, At the end of the course you come out with a degree, apprenticeship qualification as well as 4 years experience. This provides excellent employment opportunities. However, I would say it is stressful and requires lots of hard work - there is always more work to do - so is not for the faint hearted.

Be as honest as you can in your application. As much as it is the working out if you would be a good fit for the institute, you need to work out if it's the right fit for you. I would suggest getting lots of experience beforehand to demonstrate your passion for engineering and focus on the practical elements - it is an apprenticeship not just a degree.