Why choose to study Civil Engineering?

Student Nadanum explains how his fascination with buildings and construction led him to study Civil Engineering at ARU, and shares his tips for choosing your ideal course.

A lifelong interest

Whilst I was growing up, my parents owned a hardware store, and so my childhood was mostly about construction.

Every summer, I used to help my parents in the store and I was really impressed by their knowledge. When a customer came into the store with a problem, they always found a solution, whether it involved plumbing or construction.

And so, I spent most of my summers building and constructing things – building materials are no stranger to me!

Moreover, on my way to school, I was really intrigued by a building which was being constructed. The shape was really fascinating – I always wondered what type of materials they used and how they managed to create that elliptical shape. Below you can see a picture of it:

The building is in Mauritius and its eco features are incredibly interesting. For instance, the low-energy lighting, the rainwater harvesting and the use of recycled products in all its furniture and flooring.

Also, I have a passion for maths, I know it’s shocking!

So, I wanted to combine my passion for maths and knowledge in materials into a course, and that’s the reason I chose Civil Engineering.

Top tips for choosing a university course

• Imagine yourself in 10 years – where do you see yourself?
• Choose the sector you would like to work in.
• Look up courses that can lead to a job in that sector.
• Do a lot of research on the courses you are interested in.
• Go to Open Days. At ARU, the Open Days are amazing because you get the chance to meet the lecturers and current students. That’s a great way to learn more about your chosen course.

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Nadanum studies Civil Engineering at ARU in Chelmsford. Find out more about this and other degree courses at one of our Open Days.