Hi! My name is Joanne and I'm from France. After studying electrical engineering, I started the MSc in fluid mechanics for offshore, coastal and built environments. I also enjoy playing music and sports, as well as reading and writing. 

Why did you decide to do an MSc with us?
After studying general physics, mathematics and electrical engineering, I wanted to discover something quite different. I got a taste of fluid mechanics during my studies and wanted to go deeper into the subject. I also wanted to study in a foreign country, both to discover a different culture and to start a new experience. I knew that I would have new experiences while learning a lot in many areas that interest me.

What does a typical week look like for you?
Except from usual lectures (approximately 18 hours per week), I usually worked on my next coursework during a few hours each days.

Friday nights were usually reserved for pub nights with my friends or my flatmates. During weekdays, I usually finished my coursework for next monday and enjoy London by visiting the city and all the free museums during weekends !

The most important thing for me was to enjoy life in London and to learn as much as possible while finding the right balance between the two.

What do you enjoy most about studying in the Department?
What I appreciate most is probably the proximity to the professors and staff. Even though ICL is a big university, you're not drowned in the crowd. Your professors know you and they are always happy to answer your questions and go deeper into a subject if you show curiosity.

What are you hoping to do after your studies?
My long-term career project is to work on renewable energies in the field of fluid mechanics in order to improve existing innovations. I would like to contribute, as much as possible, to future improvements in this field. In the short term, I would like to continue my studies in fluid mechanics research to deepen my knowledge and acquire new skills. This is why I will start an experimental PhD on the theme of erosion and vortices.

What has been the most challenging part of the programme?
Finding the right balance between lectures, courseworks and free time has been a real challenge this year. The workload is quite heavy and it is necessary to be well organized if you don't want to finish your courseworks on Sunday night and enjoy your weekend ! When you do an Msc, even if it is demanding, you don't have to spend all your time working. Leave yourself some time to enjoy the city and all the things you can discover. 

What advice would you give someone considering doing an MSc with us?

I think it is necessary to take all the information on existing MSc and choose something that really interests you. An Msc can be a challenge and is demanding. Some weeks will be more difficult than others and you will need to be organized if you don't want to be overloaded. If you like what you do, it will be easier.

Another important tip is to take the time to enjoy the city and all the activities ICL has to offer. Don't hesitate to inform yourself about the events taking place on campus and take advantage of them.