Jessica Spurrell MEng Aero & Astro with European Studies

Postgraduate Research in Cryogenic Engineering

Hi, I'm Jessica Spurrell and I studied MEng Aero & Astro with European Studies within Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton.

I currently do a lot of Outreach work which I really enjoy. I help to run workshops for schools and colleges.

Why did you choose to come to Southampton?

It was one of the top universities in the country for Engineering with a very green campus. I felt it had a ‘good vibe’ when I came to visit – felt very open

What have you enjoyed most about your course?

The friends I made and the opportunities it opened up for me; the student workshop labs in first year; my 3rd year individual project working on Anaconda (a wave energy converter) as it was practical (I built a demonstration model & tank), working with a friendly research group and had an impact on a real-world project that had far-reaching implications (sustainable energy).

What are you lecturers and tutors like? Have you found them supportive?

Most lecturers were fairly approachable most of the time but generally took any questions or worries to the course secretary (Hazel Paul) who was absolutely incredible and I think most people on my course at some stage got rescued by her in some way!

What are the teaching facilities like here?

A lot of opportunities available but not always well-publicised e.g. student workshop is available for use if you ask and the staff are incredible (very helpful, very good at teaching and giving you the time of day) but you wouldn’t spend much time there unless you asked.

What do you think of the other facilities on campus?

Everything you need in one place! Still feels friendly and open 7 years later. Very impressed with the student-led ethics (fair trade products everywhere and vegetarian/vegan food encouraged) . Recycling facilities improved a lot since my first year. Buildings could be more energy efficient though!

Have you undertaken a project as part of your course?

Yes

If yes what did you have to do and have you enjoyed it?

• 3rd Year Individual Project – Design & Build Anaconda Demonstration Model
• 4th Year Group Project (in France) – Analysis of Injection of Liquid Fuel in Hybrid Rocket Engine System
• Group projects throughout the course in satellite payload analysis and microlight design. I Especially enjoyed 3 ^rd Year IP.

What are your career plans after you’ve completed the course?

Travel again. Then hopefully work in engineering research in industry, preferably outside of the UK.