Harry
Plant

How did you hear about your course?

I looked on the NTU website then the prospectus.

Did you visit Nottingham Trent University before you applied here?

Yes, I visited on two open days! It was extremely influential. The new state-of-the art engineering building and facilities really influenced my decision.

When you first heard about the course, what was it that particularly appealed to you?

The opportunity to combine both theoretical and practical work. The prospect of being able to apply taught theories to sports that I competed in/ enjoyed really appealed to me.

What would you describe as the strengths of your course?

The facilities and availability of cutting-edge testing equipment, plus the wide range of topics taught were all big strengths of the course. As the course was held in the new engineering building on Clifton Campus, we had everything that would be available to other engineering courses such electronics labs, workshops and powerful computers for running complex simulations. We also had sports specific testing equipment and equipment available to us such as blood lactate analysers, environmental chambers and motion capture systems.

Can you give specific examples of topics, projects etc. covered on your course?

During my four years of study towards my MEng, I was taught a wide range of topics from core engineering modules such as applied mathematics and electronics to sports specific topics such as anatomy, biomechanics and coaching principles. Highlights include the design and testing of an instrumented system for monitoring lower body kinematics for ACL rehabilitation and the testing and selection of wetsuit materials for cold water swimming.

What skills do you feel you have learned as a result of this course and how will they help you in the future?

Throughout the course I learnt how to apply theoretical engineering to real-world problems. The skills that come with the course have helped enormously during my current research towards a PhD as they allow me to create test methodologies that are not only backed by science but also solve real-world problems.

What has been your greatest achievement as a Nottingham Trent University student?

During my time at Nottingham Trent University, I achieved so much both academically and through my extra-curricular activities. For my final year project, I worked on a track cycling specific ergometer that is now used by the British cycling Track team, this was an extremely rewarding process. I also competed for the snow sports team, resulting in multiple individual and team BUCS medals for snowboarding.

Did you feel well supported by the academic staff in the Engineering Department?

The knowledge and support available from the academic staff was excellent. The staff had numerous contacts in both industry and academia that have proven to be invaluable for my progression. Throughout the course the constant opportunity for module specific support and guidance was also excellent.

What have you enjoyed or valued about studying at Nottingham Trent University?

The engineering community, along with the wider Clifton Campus community, was fantastic. It was a great place to study, meet people and feel part of the university.

What are your future plans?

To continue my current research into the improvement of sports helmets through the implementation of mechanical metamaterials then transition to industry with these findings.