Amandine Martin de Bazelaire MSc Maritime Engineering Science – Ocean Energy and Offshore Engineering, 2021

Offshore Wind Research Engineer, EDF Research & Development UK Centre

I regularly use the knowledge I gained in Southampton in my job while continuing to learn new things. Thanks to this master's degree, I was able to participate in challenging projects to my role as an Offshore Wind Research Engineer at EDF.

Why did you choose to come to Southampton?

I chose to study at Southampton as it is one of the best universities for maritime engineering. I could study the core subjects whilst using excellent facilities like the laboratories. As an international student, I wanted to study in the UK to improve my English, but also because most master’s degree can be completed here in less than two years.

What has it been like studying here?

I started my studies at Southampton when the COVID pandemic broke out. I had one or two in-person classes a week when we were not in lockdown. However, since this, the online classes were interesting, and lot of effort was made to push for more in-person classes. The lecturers were really involved in motivating students and encouraging greater discussion amongst us in class.

Despite COVID rules, I really enjoyed the student life. There were a lot of clubs and societies and I really enjoyed playing sport and music activities on campus.

Initially, before I joined, I was anxious about my English and I had absolutely no confidence in speaking. I eventually gained confidence in myself and my English. I gained a better understanding of different cultures by living in the UK, with Algerian and Chinese flatmates and friends of all nationalities! It was a truly unique experience.

What did you think of the facilities at the University?

I was impressed by the facilities at Southampton, from the library, to the wave tank, the classrooms, and the sports centre and of course the gardens, which I enjoyed visiting on the many sunny days that Southampton is blessed with!

What were your Southampton highlights?

The atmosphere in Southampton in general is very welcoming, friendly and supportive. Although we didn’t have the chance to experience events fully due to COVID, whenever I spent time with my fellow students for sports, lunch or drinks, we really made the most of it and enjoyed it! And I made some very good friends from this.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

I enjoyed the group work because it was a great opportunity to meet people and learn to work with people from all around the world. Outside of my core modules, I studied Maritime law. It was the first time I studied law, and I think it is extremely helpful for working in the offshore industry.

How did your time at Southampton help you to grow as a person?

My knowledge of marine engineering increased considerably, which made me very specialised and ready to work in the offshore field.

Did you stay in university accommodation?

Due to costs, I didn’t stay in university accommodation, but I lived in a shared house very close to the campus. Afterwards, I realised that I would have preferred to live closer to the centre, near my friends. But I bought a bicycle so that was fine, I could go to the campus quickly by bike.

What is the city of Southampton like to live in?

Southampton is a very pleasant city for students as there are lots of pubs, green areas, good public transports and museums. There are nice marinas in Southampton, with surfing beaches only a short drive away, and the weather is often sunny.

What advice would you give students coming to the UK?

Be curious, try new things, talk to people and enjoy your student life! But make sure to be organised so you can control the amount of work you have to do and keep up with deadlines. In an MSc the pace is high! My best advice is to make friends, work with them, encourage each other and enjoy Southampton together.

What are you currently doing now?

I just started a job at EDF Energy in London. I am a research engineer for Offshore Wind Turbines. I regularly use the knowledge I gained in Southampton in my job while continuing to learn new things. Thanks to this master's degree, I was able to make an impact at work and participate in challenging projects.