Bradley Borland

Profile

After completing an apprenticeship in a physical field, Bradley Borland decided that he wanted to learn more about the people behind the industry, signing up to become one of our Civil Engineering students at our Edinburgh campus.

As a mature student, Bradley was worried about going to University, but at Heriot-Watt, he found success as a prize winner, enjoyed our Go Global programme to Malaysia and made life-long friends along the way.

Find out more about Bradley’s eventful journey at Heriot-Watt below.

What programme did you study and why did you choose it?

I studied MEng Civil Engineering. I gained an interest in working with civil engineering, as my career before joining University was in the construction industry. By working closely with engineers, it inspired me to study the subject myself.

Can you tell us more about the prizes you have won during your studies and how it felt to receive this recognition?

During my studies, I have managed to achieve the Deputy Principal Award four times, which is reserved for students who achieve grade A results in six or more courses in their undergraduate degree, and the Tan Sri Yeoh Tiong Lay Award. Receiving these recognitions has made the hard work I have put in over the last five years really feel like it has paid off.

What extra-curricular activities have you gotten involved with?

During my time at University, I have been a Class Representative, a Freshers Representative with the Students Union, worked at the Student Union bar and acted as the Vice President of the Poker Society for a year.

How has the University aided your professional and personal development?

By taking part in the Go Global program to study in Malaysia, I was presented with the biggest opportunity for my personal development, making many worldwide friends and learning about different cultures.

As for my professional development, I received my summer internship after being introduced to the manager by my dissertation supervisor! Along with this, the various talks from guest speakers held by the department really helped me to network and become a member of the professional bodies related to my degree.

What advice would you give to a mature student considering Heriot-Watt?

Don't be put off by the age difference! Once you make a few friends you blend in right away, and any wisdom you may have from life experience will only be an extra help to you.

What are you planning to do after you graduate?

This summer, I plan to spend two months travelling in Australia before I come back to Edinburgh to start my graduate job as a bridge engineer!