Undergraduate Engineer Review

I am currently completing an induction project on electronics, learning to use some of the basic components and software. In my previous rotation, I researched different materials and created presentations to communicate my findings to the rest if the team. I have designed parts for the team using Cad software.

I have learnt to use CAD systems to design and model parts to be manufactured. I have also been trained to use the scanning electron microscope, to take magnified images of materials, and take microscopic measurements. I have also used various metrology equipment to gather accurate data on manufactured parts.

My first mechanical rotation was very enjoyable, as this was an area of engineering I was already interested in. However, I am finding my new electronics rotation more challenging, as I have a lot more to learn about this sector. Overall, the apprenticeship is very good, as they have provided lots of social activities to balance the workload.

We have 6 month rotations in different sectors within the company, I think this is a good structure for gaining a range of different engineering skills. Sometimes the actual work hasn't been that structured, with some extremely busy weeks, and others with not much to do. Lectures have followed a set structure.

I have had weekly one to one meetings with my line manager to clear up any confusion about my project, and discuss progression. I have a technical mentor to help me with my project. I have also had regular meetings with a student support advisor to discuss life outside work, and check in on mental health.

We have an apprenticeship coordinator who we are able to contact about information on our qualification. We have set aside apprenticeship days to fill in forms for the qualification. Twice per rotation we have meetings with our line manager, academic tutor and apprenticeship coordinator to discuss progress for the qualifications.

The academic lectures, have provided the engineering knowledge that is applied in the workplace. While specific topics are not necessarily the same, skills such as lab report writing and problem solving have been useful for the workplace. Learning a programming language in lectures has helped my understand a colleagues code.

The Dyson Institute has provided plenty of social activities for us, organising trips and nights out to get a broad student experience. There are sports clubs we can join within the organization, and the local community. I have been on team socials with colleagues in my workplace rotation as well.

Yes

Compared to other degree apprenticeships, the Dyson Institute is focused on providing a good work life balance, and making sure we don't miss out on the student experience. The workplace rotations are really good for helping understand the lecture content, and will provide work experience when looking for jobs later on.

I would recommend taking further maths at A-level or at least learning about some of the topics in your own time, as a lot of the first year content is related to this. Having some practical skills such as using a multimeter will be useful for labs and workplace too.