Naomi's story

From Nigeria, BEng (Hons) Architectural Engineering student Naomi Chukwujindu chose Heriot-Watt to build confidence and design a more sustainable future. This is her story.

What drew you to Architectural Engineering?

It was actually a mix of things. I’ve always been really good at art and design, but I also loved physics, chemistry, and maths. I didn’t want to give up either side – the creative or the technical – and I wasn’t sure if I should go into full-on architecture or maybe something like civil or mechanical engineering.

Then I came across Architectural Engineering, and it felt like the perfect balance. Not many universities offer it, and at Heriot-Watt, the programme has been around for a long time – it just used to be called Building Services Engineering. So it wasn’t something brand new or experimental; it already had a strong foundation.

That, plus how beautiful Edinburgh is – that sealed it for me.

What’s been your favourite part of the course so far?

Definitely the design software. I know it’s kind of tedious sometimes, but I really enjoy it. It’s so satisfying to create something from scratch and see it come to life digitally.

Last semester, we got to design a hospital. We added in the hospital beds, furniture, little details – it was really fun being able to add your own creative touch to something so technical. That project made me feel like I’d picked the right course.

How has your campus experience shaped your time here?

In first year, I barely left campus. Seriously – I came in September, and I didn’t even go to Princes Street until December! Everything I needed was here: I lived on campus, worked at the Student Union, did my grocery shopping at the student shop, and of course went to classes here. It just felt really safe and self-contained, which helped me adjust.

It was a big change – I moved from Dubai and didn’t know anyone from my secondary school who came to Scotland. My older brother was here, thankfully, but I was still very shy when I started. That’s changed a lot now.

Edinburgh’s great too – it has that mix of being busy but not overwhelming. You can find your space here, and Heriot-Watt gives you the support to really make the most of it.

What helped you break out of your shell?

Getting involved. That was the biggest thing.

Last year, I was Secretary of the African Caribbean Society (ACS), and now I’m the Social Media Manager. I’m also the Department Officer for Architectural Engineering. Being part of these groups helped me meet people, build confidence, and find my voice.

Now, the ACS committee are some of my closest friends. We’ve planned events from trivia nights to costume parties, meet-and-greets, even club nights. We’re really organised – we’ve already got the whole semester mapped out!

Our events are for everyone too – we’ve had students from all backgrounds join in. It’s just a fun, welcoming space.

Are you starting to figure out what you want to do next?

Honestly, I’m not 100% sure yet. But I do know that I give my all to every opportunity, and that helps guide me. I work hard, and I’m hoping that as I keep moving forward, I’ll find that one thing I’m truly passionate about – and when I do, I’ll go all in.