I chose to study Chemical Engineering MEng at Loughborough University because of its strong reputation for delivering an excellent student experience and outstanding graduate career prospects. The course’s strong industry focus also appealed to me, as through projects and laboratory work, it combines advanced theoretical knowledge with practical application to real-world problems.
A lot of the degree is project-based and mirrors real industry scenarios, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, safety and digital tools, helping you to develop practical skills and build confidence. One of the most valuable things I learnt was how to approach complex problems methodically, especially through design projects that required balancing technical accuracy with real‑world constraints. There is also a strong focus on communication, including presenting technical findings, writing reports and working effectively in teams, all essential skills in a professional environment. In addition, I have developed other key soft skills such as teamwork, confidence in new situations and effective time management, enabling me to contribute immediately to the workplace.
I have benefited from a wide range of professional development opportunities, including international placements, chartership support and strong industry links. Industry talks, guest lectures and networking events have provided valuable insights and enhanced my understanding of current developments and career pathways within the field. There is also plenty of scope to tailor the course to your interests and specialise in a particular career path. The course facilities are excellent; the library offers an extensive catalogue of research resources and a mix of quiet and group study spaces, while the campus features modern engineering labs, workshops and state-of-the-art spaces such as STEM Lab and the S-Building, allowing you to develop practical skills.
The teaching quality is outstanding, the lecturers are engaging and passionate about their subjects, which made even the more challenging topics easier to understand and helped keep me motivated. They are not only experts in their fields but also genuinely supportive and approachable. Throughout my studies, regular meetings with my Personal Tutor provided consistent guidance and reassurance, helping me stay on track and manage any challenges. One of the most influential people during my degree was my Project Supervisor for my third‑year design project. Their advice and encouragement played a significant role in helping me achieve the highest individual grade in the cohort, which ultimately led to me being awarded the BP Chemicals Design Prize.
The campus is welcoming and safe, with plenty of green spaces. My favourite part of being a Loughborough student has been the friends I’ve made. Studying with coursemates made work more enjoyable, while friends outside my degree provided a refreshing balance, letting me pursue activities beyond my course and truly switch off. Loughborough has a special community, and I’ve built friendships here that I know will last a lifetime.
My greatest achievement at University has been winning the BP Chemicals Design Prize for the best MEng Individual Design Project. I completed an in‑depth design of a unit operation for a pharmaceutical process, an area I had limited experience of, which made the recognition more rewarding, as I put in a great deal of effort into learning and applying new concepts.
Both my industrial placement and overseas research project significantly contributed to my personal and professional growth. During my placement year, I worked as a Project Engineer at Sensient Flavors in Milton Keynes, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and gaining hands-on industrial experience. Another unique opportunity was studying abroad as a research intern at James Cook University in Australia for my professional development project. My lab-based project focused on microplastics and environmental simulations, allowing me to work on a real research project, enhance my technical skills, and experience a different academic environment and culture, broadening my perspective and strengthening my independence and adaptability.
Now as a graduate, I am proud to have secured a position at ARUP as a Public Health Engineering Consultant, starting in September 2025, where I tackle technical challenges and lead projects through collaboration. My main responsibilities focus on designing sustainable and safe water systems for buildings and communities including drainage, water supply, sanitation, and rainwater harvesting systems, with an emphasis on efficiency, public health and environmental impact. My Chemical Engineering knowledge and skills have been highly relevant to this role, particularly my understanding of fluid dynamics, process modelling and sustainability. Looking ahead, I aspire to continue growing both as an engineer and a leader, pursuing roles where I can make a meaningful impact.
If you are interested in Public Health Engineering, I would recommend keeping an open mind and embrace opportunities that challenge you both technically and socially. I began my degree knowing only that I enjoyed lab work but through my course modules, placement and research projects, I developed a strong interest in environmental protection and water systems, which ultimately guided me toward this role.
During my time at Loughborough, I have grown in confidence, progressing from feeling like a student figuring things out to being able to call myself an engineer. The course and my experiences, both in and out of the classroom, have equipped me with the skills and belief that I am prepared for what comes next.
Looking back, some of my best memories weren’t just academic achievements or big events but the smaller moments, such as late-night study sessions that turned into having a laugh with friends or celebrations after deadlines. University wasn’t always easy, as there were definitely challenges along the way. However, pushing through them helped me grow. My advice? Get involved and take opportunities when they come - enjoy it while it lasts as it goes quicker than you think!
Dominic graduated from Loughborough University in 2025.