Experiencing engineering - Olivia

I attended the Design and Manufacture course at the University of Greenwich during the 7th-10th July 2008. For our 'design and make' project, each group had to make a model motor-powered car to run on a 9m track with obstacles. This meant we had to consider the shape and weight of the car in order to make it run at the fastest speed possible without falling off the track.

I enjoyed the design and make project because it really broadened my knowledge and I used machinery and tools that I had never had the opportunity to use before. I also enjoyed meeting and spending time with like-minded individuals.

I was not particularly interested in engineering before I did the course However, I discovered that there was more to engineering than I, and many other people, seem to think. Moreover, I learnt that engineering was vital to the world that we live in today, and therefore have acquired more of an appreciation for it that I had done previously. I also discovered that there is a wide range of types of engineering such as marine, biomedical and aerospace.

I was attracted to the course because of my enthusiasm for Design and Technology and after a visit from a member of the trust to my school I decided to apply as I am always willing to try out something new.

The Smallpeice Trust has helped me realise that I would like to follow a practical-based career as I enjoyed the practical work that I did on the course.

I would definitely recommend any of The Smallpeice Trust courses to others because not only have I broadened my mind and learnt a great deal from it, but I had a very enjoyable time and met other people and made friends from the course.

Olivia - age 17

If you're interested in trying a course yourself visit: www.smallpeicetrust.org.uk