Saskia Spence: Chemical Engineering

3rd year

As I worked my way through secondary school, a variety of different ideas for the future passed through my head. First I wanted to be a mathematician, then a chemist, then a doctor. However, each of these ideas came and went again, none seeming to represent a career I could see myself enjoying in ten years' time.

I knew that I wanted something scientific involving chemistry and maths that would pose a challenge for me, but had no idea as to what. Then I heard about chemical engineering and, from what I heard, it sounded like an ideal option: analytical, interesting and with the likelihood of a well-paid job at the end.

Why I chose Heriot-Watt

The next problem was which university to attend? I had always wanted to study in Edinburgh, and, after the open day, decided Heriot-Watt was the best choice. The staff were patient and friendly, introducing me to an open and helpful department.

It was here that the idea of going direct entry in second year was first introduced to me. I had never even realised this was possible before, but with my grades it seemed like the best option. Daunting yes, but it looked like it would present me with the challenge I needed.

My experience so far

I am now finished the first two years of my degree and am enjoying it immensely. It is hard work, undoubtedly, but worthwhile at the end of the day. Living in halls meant that I had a normal first year enjoying making friends and socialising in Scotland’s capital.

Fitting into the programme itself was easy enough, with the university making an effort to introduce and help all direct entry students.

Going to Heriot-Watt to study chemical engineering was definitely the right choice for me.

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