Sairah Qureshi

Biomedical Engineering BEng (Hons)

After re-taking her A-levels, Sairah chose BCU for its state-of-the-art equipment and support available to her, and the course provided her with the fundamental engineering and mathematical knowledge she would need as an Engineer. Now, she’s a Graduate Materials Engineer at Mott MacDonald. 

“After not doing as well as I’d hoped in my A-Levels, I spent an additional year retaking them, which gave me time to consider my university options. I ultimately chose BCU for its state-of-the-art equipment and machinery, and student support systems, all of which I felt would best prepare me for a career in biomedical engineering. I received an unconditional offer from BCU, and I was delighted to accept it.

My experience of studying Biomedical Engineering at BCU was excellent. I learned about many fundamental engineering and mathematical concepts associated with the manufacturing of medical equipment, electronics, mechanical systems and how the human body responds to foreign materials. I gained so much knowledge over the three years which prepared me for the work I do now. As well as this, I received phenomenal support from the university through attending support sessions after lectures, engaging in extra-curricular events that broadened my knowledge in biomedical engineering, and creating my own network of like-minded peers that I had study sessions with.

Whilst studying at BCU, I had the opportunity to do a virtual internship with the University of British Columbia on concussion mechanisms. This experience involved researching concussion types, analysing data on concussion severity, and collaborating with a team to discuss findings, including key traumatic responses and prevention methods for serious concussions.

After graduating, I knew I wanted to become a Materials Engineer because I really wanted to apply my knowledge in industry. I started applying for jobs and I soon secured a role as a Graduate Materials Engineer at Mott MacDonald, which is an engineering, management and development consultancy.

Studying Biomedical Engineering taught me the fundamentals of engineering and mathematical concepts that I now use in spreadsheets for corrosion in pipes and gave me an understanding of the key properties such as stress, strain, torsion and the modulus of many different materials. As well as this, the soft skills that I gained from BCU such as leadership and team building from project work have helped me in my current team to build a network where we can co-operate efficiently and communicate honestly.

In the long-term future, I hope to become a Senior Engineer. At this level, I would be dealing with worldwide, complex engineering issues that require research.

My advice to anyone considering studying at BCU would be to go in with an open-mind and to be proactive in taking opportunities and going the extra mile when it comes to learning. Studying at BCU is a great academic experience and you will be well-supported by lecturers, staff members and peers.

When you start employment, it is easy to start to feel comfortable doing your job daily, but make sure you always go the extra mile to learn something new from your colleagues and from your project work. Seize opportunities, go to work with a fresh mind, and be open to learning.

'I AM BCU' means representing the university that I found my academic self through. Without BCU I would have never discovered the job role that I always wanted, and I wouldn't have gained the confidence to undertake all the opportunities that I have taken since.”