Giju Kim

What motivated you to pursue studies at university?

Prior to embarking on my current journey in pursuing a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, I had the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the field of engineering.

However, driven by a passion to expand my expertise across all facets of Mechanical Engineering and to delve into the realm of dissertation research, I made the deliberate choice to pursue further education at the graduate level.

This decision stems from my eagerness to deepen my understanding and proficiency in various aspects of Mechanical Engineering, ultimately aiming to equip myself with the necessary skills to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Why did you chose City St George's?

The MSc program at City St George's boasts exceptional faculty members who are renowned experts in their respective fields of engineering. With a commitment to maintaining a small faculty-to-student ratio, City St George's ensures personalised attention and ample opportunities for mentorship, setting it apart from other institutions.

The program's diverse range of modules, including Advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Advanced Structural Dynamics, immediately caught my attention and motivated me to apply.

These specialised modules align perfectly with my academic interests and aspirations, offering a unique opportunity to deepen my knowledge and skills in key areas of Mechanical Engineering.

How are you finding studying in the UK?

Being situated in the dynamic city of London provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse myself in a vibrant multicultural environment. Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds not only enriches my academic experience but also offers a chance to broaden my cultural horizons and foster meaningful connections.

Moreover, exploring the bustling streets of London means discovering an array of cuisines from around the world, allowing me to indulge in new culinary experiences and expand my palate.

What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

Among all the modules I've taken, Advanced CFD stands out as my favourite by far. This module seamlessly integrates both simulation techniques and the development of CFD code, offering a comprehensive understanding of computational fluid dynamics.

Through this course, I had the opportunity to explore various numerical methods for solving the Navier-Stokes equations and gained insights into interpreting the results.

It was truly a hands-on experience that not only deepened my knowledge but also honed my practical skills in CFD analysis. The simulation we did were very similar to industry standard and definitely made me appreciate career in this field.

What opportunities and experiences has your School offered you so far?

The opportunity to undertake my dissertation with an industry partner has been an exceptionally unique experience for me. It's been invaluable to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical applications in Mechanical Engineering.

This hands-on involvement with real-world projects has not only deepened my understanding of the field but has also emphasized the importance of practicality and relevance in engineering.

I'm grateful for the chance to contribute to meaningful industry projects while furthering my academic pursuits, and I believe this experience will undoubtedly shape my future career in Mechanical Engineering.

What opportunities and experience has the rest of City St George's offered you so far?

I've had the privilege of attending numerous postgraduate events organized by City St George's, which have proven to be incredibly beneficial for my personal and professional development. From career networking events to CV check-ups, these opportunities have provided invaluable resources and support as I navigate my postgraduate journey.

Engaging with industry professionals and receiving feedback on my CV has not only expanded my network but has also equipped me with the tools and confidence needed to pursue my career goals in Mechanical Engineering.

I'm grateful for the university's commitment to fostering student success beyond the classroom.

What services within your School or the University have you used during your studies?

During my studies, I took advantage of the free Spanish and English classes offered by the university. These language courses proved to be incredibly helpful in several ways.

Firstly, they provided me with the opportunity to broaden my linguistic skills, enhancing my ability to communicate effectively in both professional and social settings.

Secondly, participating in these classes allowed me to immerse myself in different cultures and gain a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives.

Lastly, acquiring proficiency in multiple languages has opened up new avenues for personal and professional growth, enabling me to connect with individuals from various backgrounds and explore global opportunities. Overall, these language classes have been a valuable asset throughout my academic journey.

What advice would you give to someone considering a degree in your subject?

Studying Mechanical Engineering is not merely about passing exams; it's about understanding why the subject matters to you on a personal level. It's about appreciating the significance of what you're learning and absorbing it in your own unique way.

This degree presents its challenges, but it's these challenges that push us to delve deeper into our passion for the field. For me, Mechanical Engineering isn't just a degree—it's a journey of self-discovery and growth, where every concept learned holds intrinsic value.

By embracing this mindset, we not only excel academically but also develop a profound appreciation for the knowledge and skills we acquire along the way.

If you could do any job related to your subject in the world, what would it be and why?

If I could choose any job related to my subject, being a CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) engineer or a simulation engineer would be at the top of my list. The coursework I've engaged with during my studies closely mirrors the tasks and responsibilities of professionals in these roles within the industry.

What draws me to this career path is the opportunity to apply advanced computational techniques to solve complex engineering problems. As a CFD or simulation engineer, I would have the chance to work on cutting-edge projects, such as optimising aerodynamics in automotive design, improving thermal management systems in electronics, or enhancing the efficiency of fluid flow in renewable energy technologies.

Moreover, I am fascinated by the ability of computational tools to simulate real-world phenomena with remarkable accuracy, providing valuable insights and predictions that can inform design decisions and drive innovation.

Contributing to such impactful and forward-thinking work would not only be professionally fulfilling but also aligns perfectly with my passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the field of Mechanical Engineering.