Emily McLean

Emily studied for her undergraduate and master's degree at Liverpool.

Can you tell us abit about yourself?

My name is Emily McLean, I am 23 and from Liverpool.

What course are you studying/have you studied?

I am a recent MSc Energy and Power Systems and BEng Electrical Engineering graduate from the University of Liverpool.

What made you choose this course?

I was always interested in Renewable Energy and enjoyed Mathematics, Electrical Engineering seemed interesting and had a wide range of great opportunities. Now complete, I am very happy with my degree choice.

What did you do previously before this course?

Before my degree I was studying my A levels in Maths, History and Physics and then took a year out to get some work experience and decide on my next steps.

How has your experience been studying?

I have had an amazing experience at the University of Liverpool. The Electrical Engineering department has a community feel and I have had some great lecturers, very helpful tutors and the Electrical Engineering support office staff are always a great help. The department motivates you to do well but are also very understanding when need be.

What are the best thing about the course?

You get to study a very wide range of topics and find out what you most enjoy, for me it was the electrical and power topics which I specialised in during my third year. I really enjoyed the individual and group projects, they helped me a lot to improve my understanding. I was able to choose all my projects to specialise in renewable energy, you are also given the option to propose your own project if you have a specific idea in mind.

How have you been supported during your time?

The allocated tutor system works well and they have always helped when I have had any problems. The office staff are always very helpful and quick to get back to you. I have made great friends from my course, everyone was very friendly and open to help.

How have you found the city of Liverpool to study in?

Being from Liverpool I have always loved the city and I am still not bored of living here. There is lots going on and I love that the campus is in the city centre and The Albert Dock is a must visit, it is my favourite part of the city. Also the student housing I stayed in is a 15 minute bus ride however I liked this as it is near some nice parks.

Do you have any hobbies?

I was part of the University Cheerleading competition team, I loved this aspect of university. We travelled to many competitions all around the UK. I have made some great friends with similar interests to me.

What are your top tips for other students?

Find a routine that works for you, sometimes I would work best in the evening when the libraries were quieter. Surround yourself with people who motivate you to work hard.

What are your plans for the future?

I completed my Masters degree a month ago and I am currently looking for my first full time job, hopefully something to do with renewable energy. All of my course mates who graduated before me have managed to find great engineering jobs all around the UK or have gone on to further research at the University.