Julia Ford and Iisa Salie: Why choose Engineering?
Julia Ford and Iisa Salie, Part IV students studying BE(Hons), specialising in Civil and Environmental Engineering talk about their experience at the University of Auckland.
Why did you choose to study Engineering?
Iisa: I chose to study engineering because I was alright at Maths and Physics in high school and engineering was broad enough for me to not have to make a decision straight away.
What made you choose to study at the University of Auckland?
Julia: I'd say the campus itself, it's nestled in the heart of the city. So whenever you have classes finishing, you can zip down, get food and go to the waterfront.
I also remember going on a school visit of the faculty and there was this huge shiny brand new building so it was attractive, I didn't know yet what sort of engineering I would do but I knew that there would be really cool facilities that would allow me to carry out all these fun experiements.
What was your perception of Engineering prior to studying vs. now as a student in the field?
Iisa: Back in high school I thought that all engineers were just a bunch of people in lab coats just doing a bunch of handwritten calculations. Now in my 4th year of engineering, I am willing to admit that my perception was completely wrong. There are people out on site doing work helping the community.
There are so many different aspects of engineering. It's not just designing cars or rockets. They’re designing community systems and biomedical enhancements for other people that need it.
Julia: Before studying, I thought that there were only boys doing it honestly, and I thought that I would just be studying bridges and steel. I've almost finished the degree and I've realised there's so much flexibility in it, its super diverse.
What would you say to high school students who might be considering studying Engineering?
Julia: I would say to high school students considering studying engineering even though its daunting signing up for a long degree you're going to be employable and valued around the world.
Iisa: If you're considering it, just go for it. Honestly, there's enough variety for you to find what you're passionate about and you’ll make relationships that will last a lifetime.