Abdulla Al Assi

MSc Control Systems Engineering

I’m a Jordanian, currently studying an MSc in Control Systems Engineering. Previously, I completed my undergraduate in Mechanical Systems Engineering at the University of Sheffield in 2011. I have also completed two training courses at Baker Hughes in the U.A.E in 2010 and 2011. These training courses have opened my eyes on how the engineering industry operates.

One of the reasons I chose the University of Sheffield is that I knew the Automatic and Control Systems Department at the University of Sheffield is one of the highest ranked department in Europe in its field. It is also highly ranked in its research, and its academic staff. I believe that this will give me the cutting edge in becoming a successful engineer.

One of the most enjoyable things studying engineering at the University of Sheffield is the mixture of different labs that I have worked on. This helped me to relate all of the theory that I have learned throughout the course, to real life industry examples. I find the variability in the course really valuable. Control systems engineering plays a vital role in the modern age. It is found in many applications such as washing machines, CD players, cars, and the list goes on... Having worked on different systems in the fields of engineering, medicine, and even in finical markets helped me to appreciate how much broad the subject is.

The teaching methods in the University of Sheffield are outstanding. Each student was assigned to a tutor at the beginning of the year, to help him/her if they face any problems during the course. Seminars were held weekly and were open to any students in the department. As for the study methods some parts of the course focused on independent learning which was very useful in getting a deeper understanding of the subject.

The University of Sheffield is considered one of the UK’s leading Universities. The University also has three main libraries, and loads of computer labs. The University of Sheffield was also named as the UK University of the year in the 2011 Times Higher Education Awards. All of this is a great benefit when studying here!

Sheffield is one of the most vibrant cities in the UK. Sheffield is also one of the cheapest places to live in the UK as a student. The University of Sheffield has one the best Students Unions in the UK, and offers various activities such as archery, dancing, trying out new sports, trips to other cities in the UK.

After completing my master’s program in Control Systems, I plan to obtain a CEng qualification to be recognized as a professional engineer. I also plan to work in the alternative energy field. As control engineering is becoming more popular, I believe that it can contribute immensely in this growing field.

I would advise any prospective student to be active in any of the University’s society. It is a great way to meet new people, and especially helps International students overcome homesickness.