Luke Williams - MPhys Physics, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

The satisfaction from finishing my dissertation and putting our masters group project on the wall in the Physics building. It was great to see all the hard work pay off and be presented for others to see.

What will you miss the most about University?

Living in Exeter and being based on the Streatham campus. It’s a great place to be; the facilities such as the gym as well as the study spaces are exceptional, and great to have nearby.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

The variety of modules offered gave me the chance to study a wide range of topics, from biophysics to quantum to astrophysics. The facilities within physics are great, from the lab equipment to the resources available on ELE. The masters project allowed us to work within a small group over the course of a year to perform valuable scientific research. I felt that this gave a great chance to experience what a future in academia may entail and would be especially valuable if you were considering a PhD.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Be thoughtful with your module choices, making sure you don’t overwhelm yourself in an exam period by having too many exams in one go. If you’re doing a predominantly exam-based STEM degree, make sure you revise using past papers. Don’t be afraid to go and see your tutor if there is something you don’t understand, from my experience they were always very helpful.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

A long summer off, and then I start work in the autumn at KPMG.

Jessica Hopson - MSci Natural Sciences, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

A highlight of my time at Exeter has been the opportunity to try out new things, both academically and socially.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

The reason I picked Natural Sciences at Exeter was the unique way in which the course is taught. Exeter offered me the opportunity to study both physical and biological sciences, which is otherwise rare. The research-driven approach to my degree has made my masters project feel valuable, rather than just a series of assessments. Natural Sciences was also great for promoting a communal feel, and with exceptionally supportive staff, both enhanced my experience.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Make sure to pick a course you enjoy as it requires a lot of dedication and motivation to do well. Getting involved in activities is important to provide a relief from your work life, but it is also important to balance this with working hard, especially in the first years to provide that safety net for the final years.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I am going to undertake a PhD at the College of Doctoral Training in Medical Imaging at King’s College London, specifically looking at improving dementia diagnostics.

Amy Dunmall - MPhys Physics, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

There have been many things I have loved about my time here. I have been a member of the trampolining club and had the opportunity to be part of the academic change team. Through this I have had experiences I never imagined when I started university, such as chairing meetings and giving talks to academics on student opinions.

However, I think the highlight is the course itself. I have loved studying Physics and constantly pushing my mind to understand concepts that I never thought possible. The feeling of getting the right answer having spent hours working on a problem is amazing. The success I have had whilst at Exeter is down to me loving what I have been doing and the quality of the teaching.

What will you miss the most about University?

The community feel that you get at Exeter, both as a whole and within the societies that I have been a part of. This is particularly felt in the Physics building. There are always PhD students and academic staff around to speak to. Almost anyone in Physics is always happy to answer questions on their work, or to give advice on your own work. I will really miss the feeling of working alongside amazing scientists.

The best part of the MPhys programme is the master’s project: a year and a half piece of research into an area at the forefront of Physics. For me this was an amazing opportunity to experience real world research and get an understanding of how a scientific community works.

What advice would you give future students?

Firstly make sure you take every opportunity you are given. Whether you try out a new sport, join a society, or go on a trip, you will not regret it. Secondly, make sure to take time to yourself. During my time at university I have very rarely studied past 7pm, so I had the evenings to do what I wanted. You will find that you are far more productive when you allow yourself breaks and get enough sleep.

Nikolai Dochev - BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Industrial Placement, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

Winning the Computer Science Final Year Project Prize after a year of hard work on my dissertation.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

The wide variety of subjects and themes we explored, while still delving deep in some core areas.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Make the most use of your time in Exeter meeting new people and take advantage of the resources that are at your disposal. Grades are only important in getting to the interview stage in securing that first job, but the networks you’ve built, the soft and hard skills you’ve learned and the memories you’ve made are what stick with you for longer. Also if you have the opportunity, do go on an Industrial Placement or a Summer Internship as that is the best, quickest and easiest way to build your real-world experience and confidence before you’ve even graduated.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I’m moving into full-time work in tech consultancy.

Lewis Pegrum - MEng Mining Engineering, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

My highlight of my time at Exeter was definitely being a part of the Camborne School of Mines. The course itself has been fantastic, however being a part of such a great society in not just a social sense but also with the extra-curricular opportunities as well has made my time at Exeter very enjoyable.

What will you miss the most about University?

I will miss living in Cornwall. At first I was unsure about moving so far away from home in a relatively quiet area compared to some other universities but as soon as I arrived I realised how lucky I was to be at university in Penryn. I will also miss the social life which has been great throughout.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

With Mining Engineering I feel it provides a good balance between learning the core skills of an Engineering degree and learning about one of the world’s most fascinating industries. This provides great flexibility when it comes to exploring employment options in the future.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Time will fly by so try not to waste any of it.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I wish to gain as much experience as possible, as quickly as possible within the Mining Industry, with the aim of pursuing a career within Mining Economics at some point in the future.

Hannah Ritchie - BSc Applied Geology, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

Being able to enjoy the beaches and swimming in the sea. Going to the beach was a perfect way to relax and de-stress, whilst enjoying time with friends.

What will you miss the most about University?

Living with true life-long friends and sharing so many great memories with them.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

I especially enjoyed all of the field trips we went on, from 10 days on the beautiful Isle of Skye, to six weeks in Spain, and many more. I also enjoyed the friendship between course mates and the closeness that only many days and nights in the library and in the field can create!

What advice would you give to current and future students?

I would say just try to enjoy your time at university as much as possible, treasure your true friends and work as hard as you can. All of your hard work will eventually pay off I promise! Try and make the most of the beautiful beaches, surf and great events Cornwall has to offer because you won’t have this time again.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I’m taking a year out to travel to India and to gain internships and work experience, before hopefully studying for a masters in environmental engineering and sustainability or water engineering in the September of 2019.

Margalida Ortega Adrover - MEng Renewable Energy, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

We worked on a broad range of project types, all fitting within the big picture of our degree. However, I must say that the highlight for me was that most practical projects we did were for a real purpose or client, as well as hands-on activities where we had the chance to learn the ins and outs of day-to-day engineering.

What will you miss the most about University?

The friendly but academically stimulating atmosphere on campus and particularly in our department. The familiarity: being more than just a number, and being surrounded by welcoming and helpful people.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

The feeling in and outside lectures that we were on a good track to change the world for the better. The variety of modules and projects, allowing you to specialise in a topic without losing sight of the big picture.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Keep working hard. It feels like it never ends, like it’s too stressful. But when you hand in that last piece of coursework and finish your last exam, you’ll realise every minute of it was worth it. You’ll come out with an excellent degree and with an invaluable experience. So keep going and don’t doubt yourself.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I am currently undertaking an internship looking at energy efficiency of Melià Hotels. I am really enjoying it and it is flexible enough that I might even pursue a second degree in physics in my spare time. I hope that in the long run I’ll earn enough knowledge and experience to eventually set up my own company and specialise in energy efficiency and renewable energy in historical or refurbished Mediterranean buildings.

Joshua Lowe - MEng Mechanical Engineering, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

Meeting many wonderful people, both on my course and outside of it. I have made lifelong friends who I would not have had the opportunity to meet if I had not come to this university.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

I enjoyed the variety of topics that were taught over the four-year course. This meant that you were likely to come across a topic that you enjoyed, one which you might not have known about or even expected to like otherwise. Personally, I particularly enjoyed opportunities in which I got to use CAD design software, especially when I was able to use it to create and test a unique micro wind turbine blade design as part of my third-year project.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

Time management is your friend! Managing your time effectively can help to avoid stressful moments, particularly those just before a submission deadline. Put 100% into all your work no matter how much it is worth in a module, as it all adds up and can alleviate some pressure later. However, also remember to balance work with fun stuff! Me and my friends joined the badminton intra-mural sport league in our last year and was something I wish I had done sooner. I would also recommend volunteering for Welcome Team for current students. 

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

My plan is to enjoy this last summer of freedom and then really knuckle down in hunting for a graduate job. As to what roles I shall be applying for I am not quite sure – the benefit of having a Masters in a Mechanical Engineering degree is that it not only gives you access to many different and varied opportunities within Engineering, it also opens doors to many other careers as well! 

Daniel Gymer -BSc Natural Sciences, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

The highlight of my time at Exeter was always the period after finishing summer exams; everyone was relaxed and starting to enjoy summer after working hard all year.

What will you miss the most about University?

I will miss living close to campus and being surrounded by so many people of a similar age because it meant there was always something to do. The convenience of having friends, the town centre, lectures, the gym and the library within a 15-minute walk made life much easier.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

I enjoyed the flexibility that studying Natural Sciences gave me; I could pick modules from a range of different disciplines, which allowed me to tailor the degree to my interests. I also liked that the cohort was smaller than other subjects because it meant that I could build good relationships with a lot of other students and staff, meaning that there was always someone there to offer support if I had any concerns.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

During my time at Exeter I tried to enjoy all aspects of university life. At quieter times I made sure I kept on top of work but also got involved in the social and sporting side of university. During busier periods, when I had upcoming deadlines or exams, I would focus on studying. This allowed me to make the most of my time at Exeter, both academically and socially.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

Now that I have graduated I’m going to work and save so that I can travel from January; I plan to go to Australia, New Zealand and Southeast Asia. In September 2019 I will be starting on Deloitte’s 2-year graduate programme.

Christopher Summersby - MSci Mathematics with Business and Finance, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

The highlight of my time at Exeter was my final year project. I got the opportunity to work in collaboration with The Met Office, building a statistical model to interpret and predict water demand. While the project was also one of the most stressful times during university, looking back I learned an incredible amount and loved putting many of the skills I’d acquired from my degree into practice. Submitting my dissertation was a really proud moment, and after getting it bound I can cherish it when I look back on my time here!

What will you miss the most about University?

I would say that I’ll miss the friends I’ve made over the four years, but hopefully I’ll keep in touch with many of them! I’ll definitely miss the freedom while you’re at university though. This was the first time in my life that I could be truly independent, from the trivial things such as deciding what I’m having for dinner, to the more difficult ones like deciding when to work and when to go and enjoy myself! The whole university experience is like one massive bubble and I think you really have to make the most of it before you return to the restrictions of the working world! With the memories I now have I’d like to think that I did!

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

I really enjoyed the opportunity with my programme to experience two different colleges at the university. For the first three years, my course consisted of both maths modules in CEMPS and accounting modules taught within the Business School. While the course was always predominantly maths, the other modules gave me the opportunity to apply the maths skills in interesting financial contexts. It also gave me an opportunity to interact with two different groups of students.

Max Beech - BSc (Hons) Computer Science

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

I have had the absolute pleasure of being exposed to an incredible variety of experiences during my three years at Exeter. What stands out in particular though were the opportunities I had throughout my studies to lead the teaching of coding to over 300 fellow students. Supported by a fantastic group of other volunteers, the ability to share our programming knowledge with students who wouldn’t otherwise be exposed to building websites or creating games was a real honour and something that just wouldn’t be possible outside of a university.

What will you miss the most about University?

The flourishing, dynamic and diverse community of people who make up Exeter has been truly inspiring and will be undoubtedly the thing I miss most.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

I have been very impressed by the wealth of genuinely useful skills that have been taught within an academic context. It has been particularly rewarding to then be able to apply these new skills through interesting coursework assignments, often collaborating with others.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I am really excited to be working with an old school friend to build on my dissertation project by launching a new startup. The idea centres around an app aimed at speeding up the process for students to connect with new people and companies. We have been awarded funding and support from both Exeter and Southampton universities and are looking forward to launching the app in September.

Oliver Griffiths - BSc Physics, 2018

What has been the highlight of your time at Exeter?

There are so many opportunities to meet new people and build friendships. I have met some amazing people at Exeter.

What will you miss the most about University?

There is a lot of work to do but I have also had a lot of freedom and flexibility at University, it is exciting to not have a rigid routine. You can be spontaneous, and rarely have to say no to things.

What did you enjoy about your particular programme?

Doing experiments. You are given a lot of freedom to do essentially whatever it is you want if you ask for it. In my second year I asked to do an experiment that I saw on a YouTube video. I did two projects in my third year, one on Acoustic Levitation and the other mapping the Milky Way using the university’s radio telescope. They have all been really interesting and a lot of fun.

What advice would you give to current and future students?

If you want to do well you just have to work hard and be organised. Being smart is only a small factor. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, you shouldn’t feel scared to ask a “stupid” question. Prioritise and try to work efficiently so you can take advantage of all the other opportunities available to you. Don’t let yourself get too bogged down doing work.

What are your plans now that you have graduated?

I am excited to start a masters in Aerospace Dynamics at Cranfield University in October. In the mean time I plan to catch up with some friends and maybe try and do some traveling.

Olawumi Lawal - BSc Computer Science, 2017

The reason I picked the University is because it’s one of the best! It’s improved my organisational skills and I’m ready for what life throws at me!

Samah Hussain - BSc Mathematics, 2017

I picked the University of Exeter because I enjoy Maths and wanted to go to a globally recognised university. Since studying here I have gained transferable skills and independence, and I now want to start a career in the data analysis sector.

Rianne Tomczynska - BSc Mathematics, 2017

I really enjoyed Mathematics at school and thought studying the programme at Exeter would enable me to develop vital numerical and analytical skills, which would help me in a future career. The campus is beautiful and both the guild and AU offer many opportunities and activities to help you make the most of your time here. 

Matthew Goodwin - BSc Mathematics with finance, 2017

I gained a first class degree and believe that this programme has prepared me very well for my future plans. Initially I want to be professional analyst, then move into an investment manager position.

Tasheem Rahman - BSc Mathematics with Economics,2017

I knew studying Mathematics was going to be a challenge, but the programme is flexible and the staff are really friendly and happy to help; they never made you feel stupid for not knowing. If you’re thinking about, or going to study here make the most of every minute. Don’t be afraid to join something just because your friends aren’t doing it. Try everything.

Adam Meadows - BEng Mechanical Engineering, 2917

My biggest achievement here is achieving a first class degree! My plan now is to take some time off, travel for a bit then move into consulting next year. My advice to future students would be to enjoy every minute and take every opportunity that is thrown your way.

Sophie Kendall - BEng Mechanical Engineering, 2017

When I first came to visit Exeter, I loved the greenery, environmental scene and atmosphere in the city. I feel prepared because during my degree I explored a range of subjects and gained a lot of confidence.

Rebecca Cadwallader - MEng Civil Engineering with International Study, 2017

I picked my programme because of the depth of knowledge you receive during the ‘general’ 1st year, plus there was opportunity to study abroad! I gained a 1st class dissertation and now feel more confident in my ability, as I can work in a team effectively and problem solve efficiently.

Eshny Beeharry - BEng Mechanical Engineering, 2017

I’ve always been very passionate about the mechanics in the things that we’ve been using in our daily life and even more in aeroplanes, which is why I am furthering my studying in that area. Make sure you make the make the most of your time here, join societies, the friends you make here are for life.

Stuart Bollehtenmore - MEng Mechanical Engineering with International Study, 2017

Exeter is a beautiful location and has a laid back lifestyle. One thing I am really proud about is achieving 82% in my final year project and two college commendations. My plan now is to start working in the landing churning or land development.

Daniel Powell - BEng Materials Engineering, 2017

Engineering at Exeter taught me to be an engineer practically, not just theoretically. My advice is to make sure you bite off more than you can chew and try something new! For example, I was a senior ambassador for the university and engaged with the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Science on project work.

Mingye Cai - BEng Mechanical Engineering, 2017

Engineering at Exeter has a strong reputation, as did the location of the universities location. Exeter allows you to have a comfortable lifestyle and be part of a friendly atmosphere, plus the weather is always good and there is fresh air coming from the sea!

Sarah Robson - BSc Physics, 2017

I always had a great interest in science and Exeter offered an amazing Physics course that was highly regarded by many people I know. Exeter is such a beautiful place to live as well as having a nice atmosphere on campus.

Tom Holland - Physics with Astrophysics, 2017

One of my academic highlights is during my 3rd year labs; my lab partner and I constructed a partial map of the Milky Way using the universities radio telescope! I now have an internship with SSTL and Airbus to get my foot in the door to the space industry.

James Horton - MPhys with Astrophysics, 2017

Space has always been of great interest to me and Exeter gave me the option to explore it and greater physics in a wonderful environment; there is a great work and play atmosphere. My plans now are to go into the software development industry.

Benjamin Jones - MPhys Physics with North American Study, 2017

I picked this university for my study abroad year. From studying at the university I’ve gained so much independence, and I’ve got a hunger for success! Exeter is full of great people, great opportunities and is a lovely city!

Lauren Walter - MEng Civil Engineering, 2017

My biggest academic achievement was my dissertation in 3rd year, which got me an internship! I think engineering has taught me the skills I will need for future life not just in my career but for all aspects of life. Make sure you take every opportunity in the programme to enrich your degree experience.

Kate Mawbey - BSc Computer Science, 2017

I want to get a job in London as a technology consultant and I believe that The University’s reputation, support and friendly environment will help me achieve this.

Sean Sapsford - BSc Mathematics with French, 2017

The university is very good and there are lots of social benefits. I got a first in all my French modules and I already have a job lined up in financial consultancy.

Luke Gregory - BSc Mathematics with Accounting, 2017

My programme allowed me to studying something relevant to what aspired to do post-graduation. Now I am looking to take my ACA accounting qualifications.

William Sellers - BSc Mathematics, 2017

Mathematics really interests me and I like the idea of using it to solve issues such as poverty and education policy. My lecturers were incredibly relatable and were the best part of studying in a fun environment. During my degree I worked on project about UK education policy on Mathematical literacy with one of my lectures, which was engaging, fun and developed my research facilities. I am now working for the Labour party, developing a mental health policy using statistics and data analysis."

Ong Xun Zhung - BEng Civil Engineering, 2017

Exeter has a high ranking, and the general environment here is excellent. I believe that studying here helped me secure a job easily in my country

Rich Hutchins - BEng Civil Engineering, 2017

My favourite thing about studying here was the diversity; it was interesting interacting with people from different cultures and ideologies. My programme has given me the background theory and a step onto the entry ladder so I can pursue the career I want

Karim Al Maski - BSc IT Management for Business, 2017

The University of Exeter is a Russell group institution, it has a really supportive career zone and there is a diverse student background. 

Gemma Szlichta - BSc Mathematics, 2017

I love that you’re always near the sea, but also in a city; I’ve always been a coastal girl as I lived in Cornwall. But moving to Exeter allowed me to experience life at a slightly faster pace. The careers zone really prepared me when finding roles; In September I am starting a graduate role and KPMG in the tax department!

Xue Wu - BEng Electronic Engineering, 2017

I picked the University of Exeter because it’s a  good university and all the professors create a really engaging learning environment.

Nelvida Neldin - BSc Computer Science, 2017

I travelled 15 hours to come to the university, as I wanted to get a feel for the programme and place. I picked it as I wanted to challenge myself. A highlight of studying was designing and creating a system that improves the learning and teaching environment in the classroom; I am very proud of it. I also completed a placement so I gained lots of outside experience. In the future I want to use my knowledge of computers and apply it field that improves people’s lives.

Eneida Monina - BSc Computer Science, 2017

I already have a graduate role in cyber security at IBM and I believe that my programme helped me gain the skills to get this job; it’s got great prospects, excellent teaching and it’s surrounded by a beautiful campus. My advice to student is don’t be put off by the preconceptions of computer science; you don’t need to be a programmer to do well in Computer Science.

Sophie Kathleen Wrixon - MMath, 2017

I remember arriving on an offer holder day and everyone was super friendly and the campus was beautiful and I fell in love with it all! I am the cox in Exeter’s rowing society; I’ve made many friends through this and would advise people to join a society. I gained a first class degree, and on the whole Exeter has made me aspire to do bigger things.