Ellis Figg MEng Ship Science

4th year student

Hi, I'm Ellis Figg and I'm currently in my final year studying MEng Ship Science within Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton.

Southampton is a great place to be because there are so many state of the art facilities and the lecturers are very friendly and helpful.

I’ve been a keen sailor since the age of 12 so a degree in Ship Science is ideal for me. I first came along to the University on an open day thinking about mechanical engineering but loved the idea of specialising in its maritime applications.

The highlight of my degree has definitely been my third year individual project designing and testing a rudder for a small autonomous transatlantic yacht. It involved both computational modelling and actually making rudders through 3D printing and testing them in the University’s towing tank.

As well as studying, I was involved with the University’s Wessex Sailing Club. I was Casual and Beginner Captain last year, encouraging students to take up the sport and organises trips for them each week. We were the most successful University sailing club in the country last year. I’m also Vice-Captain of the skydiving club and I’ve already done 72 jumps. One of the main highlights about being at University of Southampton is the opportunity to try new things. I’m pleased to say we’re one of the most successful student sky diving clubs in the country.