Sumika Iyer
MEng Architectural Engineering Design
I am an Indian who has lived in Dubai for the past 17 years. Before coming to Sheffield I was enrolled into Dubai Gem Private School for lower kindergarten and ended up completing my IGCSE O levels as well as my Edexcel A levels in this school, which soon became my second home. I also had the privilege of serving the school as the Deputy Head Girl in my penultimate year.
Nothing in Dubai is short of an architectural marvel. Dubai has not only housed wonders such as the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, but has also always been my home. Surrounded by such revolutionary structures, it is no surprise that I wish to pursue a future in Architectural Engineering. In choosing to study at the University of Sheffield ranking was my primary and most important motivation, the university being ranked 3rd best in UK for civil engineering and 5th best in the field of architecture seemed like the perfect place.
The most enjoyable thing about studying my subject at Sheffield is the integration of the various departments I am affiliated with (Mechanical and Civil Engineering as well as Architecture). I truly enjoy the diversity of nationalities in the university; I have met so many people from different corners of the world, which makes my learning even more enjoyable. How each one approaches learning in different ways is always interesting.
Group projects assignments, working with people is an enjoyable and highly valuable in building people skills which is crucial in the work environment and otherwise.
The aesthetics of art, colour, design and structure, has always intrigued me. This, along with my love of physics has made me believe that Architectural Engineering is appropriate choice for me, as it would allow me to express my creativity as well my passion for physics and mathematics.
One thing I have learnt from my first day at university was that university was a new ball game one that was completely different from high school. Self-learning was key to my education in university. It is no longer studying but instead we are being cultivated the habit of learning. Initially I was quite disheartened with this approach, but I now truly believe this is what sets Sheffield graduates apart, we tackle from ground zero and try and find every possible way to do so.
The opportunity of studying in this university will allow me to study architecture and engineering, to a degree level, to become a fully chartered architectural engineer. This will allow me to pursue a career where I can be creatively involved in designing functional structures in the near future.
The best thing about life at the University of Sheffield is the cultural integration. Sheffield is like small globe where it is possible to get to know people from more than one country; this experience can give you a real view of other cultures and behaviours.
Living independently and studying in a country nearly 5000 miles away from home, it can be quite daunting. But the people here in Sheffield have been more than hospitable, loving and concerned. Any shop you go into, any bus you hop onto has someone who says ‘”You alright, love?” this attitude of the people in Sheffield makes this city all the more charming.
In the future I look forward to contribute significantly in the solution of crucial problems such as - climate change, energy efficiency and aesthetic use of space all of which affect an engineer’s decisions these days. I hope to be able to achieve this once I’ve finished my course.
For students thinking about coming to Sheffield, I wouldn’t be too scared about feeling homesick; there is always something to do, to visit, to explore. Sheffield is a delightful little city you will definitely fall in love with, one way or the other. Every time I step out, I find something new, a shop in one nook or a cosy little café in another corner, which I wouldn’t have seen before. I too fall more in love with Sheffield everyday!
Pack some comfortable shoes! You definitely have got some walking to do in Sheffield.