Selina Thomas

Before coming to Wrexham University, I completed a vocational apprenticeship in Germany as a Technical Modelmaker, working in automotive prototype development. This gave me practical experience in manufacturing, design and prototype development. 

I then completed a Mechanical Engineering Technician qualification with a focus on aviation. By the time I came to Wrexham, I already had several years of practical and technical experience and wanted to take the next step towards becoming a qualified engineer. 

I first heard about Wrexham University through my technician school, where it was promoted as an option for further study. 

What attracted me was the combination of the course content and the university's approach to students with different educational backgrounds. As I already had qualifications and experience from Germany, the opportunity to complete a Bachelor of Engineering (Top-Up) was particularly relevant to me.

I studied a Bachelor of Engineering (Top-Up) in Aeronautical and Mechanical Engineering at Wrexham University. 

The course covered a broad range of engineering topics, including different materials and their properties, as well as how they perform in different applications. We also used engineering simulation software such as ANSYS to model and analyse different scenarios. 

Another part of the course was the practical work. For example, we carried out tests using a wind tunnel, which allowed us to apply what we had learned and compare practical results with our theoretical understanding. 

I particularly enjoyed having this combination of theory, simulation and practical testing, as it gave me a better understanding of how engineering concepts work in real-world applications. 

The atmosphere on campus was very welcoming, and there was a strong sense of community. It was easy to interact with both students and staff, and I quickly felt comfortable there. 

I also liked that there were different types of spaces available, from areas for individual study to larger rooms for group work and more informal learning areas. The campus felt like a place where different ways of working were accommodated.

I enjoyed being able to work on engineering problems and approach them from different angles. Engineering combines technical knowledge with creativity, and I like the process of finding a solution when there is not necessarily just one correct answer. 

I've always been interested in how things work, from motocross bikes and cars to aircraft and spacecraft, so being able to study engineering in more depth was something I really enjoyed.

The support from the university was very good. My tutors were approachable and willing to help when I had questions about my studies or needed advice about my next steps. 

I also experienced support from the wider university during a difficult period while I was studying. The staff at the help desk were able to provide guidance and help me get the situation back under control so that I could continue with my studies. 

Overall, I found that support was available when I needed it, both academically and with practical matters.

Studying at Wrexham gave me the opportunity to take the next step in my engineering career and apply my previous experience in a new environment. 

It also helped me develop professionally and personally, particularly through studying in another country and adapting to a different education system. 

Another benefit has been the connection I have maintained with the university. I now work for a university-owned company, so I still have opportunities to be involved with the university alongside my engineering career.

Yes. I would recommend Wrexham University to people who are looking for a supportive and personal university experience. 

I particularly appreciated that my previous qualifications and experience were recognised and that I was able to take a less traditional route into higher education. I also think Wrexham and North Wales offer a good environment for anyone who wants to experience something different while studying.

The course gave me the academic knowledge I needed to complement my existing practical experience. It also involved practical engineering work, which helped me understand how theoretical concepts can be applied to real problems. 

Studying in the UK also helped me become more independent and comfortable working in a different environment. Those experiences have been useful in my professional life and have made the transition into engineering easier.

After graduating, I applied for a number of engineering positions before finding an opportunity at Wrexham University as a Mechanical Design Engineer with Glyndŵr Innovations Ltd. 

In my current role, I use CAD and engineering simulation software such as Autodesk Inventor and ANSYS to develop solutions to mechanical challenges. The work involves applying engineering principles to real-world problems, which allows me to continue developing my technical skills. 

Glyndŵr Innovations works on high-precision optical systems and custom optics for aerospace, scientific and industrial applications, so the projects are technically demanding and varied.

A major highlight has been achieving my goal of becoming a qualified engineer after taking a less traditional route into the profession. 

Starting my current role as a Mechanical Design Engineer was another important milestone, as it gave me the opportunity to put my education and previous experience into practice. 

I also value being able to continue developing my career while remaining connected to Wrexham University through my current role.

Wrexham University was an important step between my previous technical education and my career as an engineer. The Top-Up degree gave me the academic qualification I needed to progress while allowing me to build on the experience I already had. 

Beyond the degree itself, studying at Wrexham gave me the opportunity to experience a different country and education system, develop my confidence and build professional connections. 

The fact that I am now working for a university-owned company and remain involved with the university is a good reflection of how closely my studies and career have become connected.