Mariana
Martins

Mariana Martins, from Portugal, is a dedicated student in her fourth year of the Meng (Hons) Sport Engineering course at NTU, shares her experiences and insights about her academic journey with us.

When asked about her route into university, Mariana explains laying strong foundations in Portugal for her studies in UK:

When choosing the right course. Marina was particularly drawn to the application of engineering principles to sports problems:

Mariana: I applied during Covid-19’s lockdown, so I couldn’t make a short trip to the UK to visit universities, as a 2-week isolation period was required after landing.  I found this course through my own research. I knew I wanted to do something sport-related, but I was not keen on doing the traditional route of sport science.  I was drawn to my course specifically because it applied engineering principles to sports problems. When I looked at the course outline with its specific modules, it seemed that it would give me a rounded education with strong engineering, mathematical and physiological foundations.

Mariana highlights the strengths of her course:

Mariana:  The outline of the sport specific modules and the practical laboratory sessions were rich in information that has clear applications to industry problems. The course is also project heavy – most of the modules had a project to complete, rather than a simple examination, which gave me valuable project management skills.

The more specific examples of topics and projects covered on her course were:

Mariana: Sports equipment testing and improvement were investigated in different modules, using varied techniques such as experimental testing, virtual simulations, and 3D product design. In engineering-specific modules, we learned the basics of electrical engineering by building small versions of a smart house, a thermal energy-harvesting tile, and a bike crash detection system.

Our industry connections and hands-on experience has enriched her education and prepared her for future challenges:

Mariana:  The department of engineering has a strong connection to various industry professional, so some of our projects were done in collaboration with companies that raised the challenge to the students. This type of project is an important experience that I could not have had if chosen another university.

She developed a range of skills, including technical abilities in machine learning and data analysis, as well as many transferable skills:

Mariana: I have developed technical skills in machine learning, data analysis, 3D Design, virtual simulations such as CFD, 2D and 3D motion capture, and performance testing. As for transferable skills, project management, communicating effectively with both experts and non-experts, and a proactive approach to problem solving are some of the most valuable skills I have developed through my time at University.

Mariana used industry-standard tools which are integral to the practical aspects of her Sport Engineering course:

Mariana: To carry out these projects, we could use industry-standard equipment such as an environment chamber, stress test machines (for fabric testing), 3-dimensional motion capture systems from Vicon, and thermal imaging cameras. Before requesting to use any equipment, we were taught how to properly carry out their respective testing procedures. It was also necessary to submit a risk assessment and receive appropriate safety training. If further assistance was needed, the technicians in the engineering building always proved helpful support.

Mariana has also engaged in research internships, stating:

Mariana: I took part in 2 different research internships during the summer at NTU, in which I had to help further develop an existing project. Both internships were 6-weeks long, in which I had the final deadline and set goals to achieve. In these, as I had the responsibility of delivering the result at the end of the deadline, I solidified my time management skills.

When reflecting on her greatest achievement at NTU, Mariana proudly shares:

Mariana: I am proud to have been awarded my degree with first-class honours whilst being a scholarship-awarded athlete.

She emphasises the support she received from academic staff and services noting:

Mariana: The engineering technicians were always helpful in understanding how the equipment worked, and if anything did stop working, then how to fix it. The lecturers were overall easily reachable and provided materials to learn beyond the principal concepts taught in the modules. Additionally, the support services at NTU have been very helpful throughout my degree, from helping with my move to the UK and financial planning to employability guidance.

Looking ahead, Mariana shares her career plans with commitment to making a positive impact in the sports industry.: