My grandad used to build and fly model aircraft and he manufactured his own gas turbine engine from scratch which really got me interested in the area

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Rebecca Jane Ede
Mechanical Engineer
Alumna
2016
My name is Rebecca Jane Ede. I study Mechanical Engineering at the University of ºù«Ӱҵ and I was President of the Mechanical Engineering Student Society.

Watch: our interview with Rebecca


Originally I wanted to go into Law until I went and did work experience at a RAF base. They sent me to look at the air craft hangers and I thought it was so much more fun. My A Levels weren’t the required ones for studying Mechanical Engineering so I did the Foundation Year here at ºù«Ӱҵ before starting my degree.

I study Mechanical Engineering which is such a broad subject. Fundamentally, it’s the practical application of Physics and Maths to solve real-life problems. We study everything from solid mechanics – the forces and stresses on solid components, to fluid mechanics – so looking at how fluids flow. We study manufacturing processes looking at traditional methods such as forging and casting as well as new developments such as 3D printing. This is all combined with learning management skills so we can use this knowledge in practical applications.

I was the President of the Mechanical Engineering Society at University which gave me a social aspect to the course but also allowed me to forge links with industrial contacts and leadership skills.

I’d really like to go into a project management role. I’ve really enjoyed leading group projects throughout my course and also being President of a society. I’d like to go into the Aerospace industry as I have an interest in gas turbines.

We interviewed Rebecca in 2015.

Four students laughing while sat at a bench, outside the Students' Union

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We offer a generous package of financial support for international students, including undergraduate and postgraduate taught scholarships worth £10,000 towards the annual tuition fee.

Applications are open for existing offer holders for programmes starting in autumn 2025.