Realtime research at Strathclyde

After completing my bachelor’s programme in engineering from Anna University, Chennai, I worked for one year to gain some experience. I then decided I wanted to have a career in the power sector, and started searching for universities abroad that would give me the right international exposure and platform to achieve my career ambitions. The Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow was my choice. Strathclyde offered the right selection of modules that I wanted to undertake for my master’s and handled my application efficiently.

The university is located right in the heart of the city with its state of the art campus mixed with public and private city buildings, offices and shops. Glasgow is a wonderful city and a perfect destination for any student who wants to travel abroad.

It was not just the people in the city but also the staff and faculty at the university who gave me a very warm welcome. To add to that, the diversity of the international student population is extensive. The experience of working with students from different continents of the world is great.

The important focus on learning at Strathclyde is the ability to apply the theory we have learnt in the classroom to practice. Assignments and course work are not merely focussed on applying what has been taught but also encouraging the students to innovate. The reports that we are required to write are not simply academic reports but ones that can be submitted to professionals in the industry.

The university has extensive links with the engineering world and classroom sessions are centred around current industrial trends and the latest developments. We also had the opportunity to visit the Power Network and Demonstration Centre which has a collaboration with the university. It was an amazing experience which gave us an insight into the development of power systems hardware components in realtime and the research into the next generation of power networks.

There are also numerous clubs and societies such as ‘Engineers without Borders’ where students meet up and discuss topics such as developing solutions for people struggling in developing countries. It was exciting to be able to participate, discuss and share ideas to bring about innovation. And it is not always about academic topics. There are many international cultural societies which give us an insight into the various cultures from around the world and it is possible to participate in international festivities. I have been a part of the Indian-Sri Lankan Society, where we organise events throughout the year.

Glasgow is a place with a flourishing culture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere and the magnificent Scottish highlands are within easy access of the city.

For students, there is plenty of city centre student accommodation and this makes Glasgow an affordable place to live in. The local people are lively, cheerful and welcoming and always greet you with a warm friendly smile every day. In my opinion, Glasgow is an ideal international student destination.