Meet Hadis

What my degree was really like

Studying MSc Sustainable Chemical Engineering at Newcastle University was a very rewarding experience, especially because of the hands-on, project-based teaching style. What stood out most for me was the strong focus on group work and real problem-solving rather than simple memorisation. I really enjoyed collaborating with classmates and working on practical challenges that helped me truly understand and apply the knowledge. 

Another aspect I really appreciated was the module structure, where we focused on one module at a time each month. Coming from a bachelor’s degree with multiple simultaneous subjects, this approach was very new to me, but extremely effective. It allowed me to fully concentrate on one topic, explore it in depth, and build a deeper understanding rather than a surface-level one. Once a module was completed, I felt confident in the knowledge and could also connect it to later modules when needed. 

Why I chose to study in the UK

I chose to study in the UK because I wanted to experience education beyond my home country and explore a different academic and cultural environment out of curiosity and a genuine love for learning. During my research, I found that UK universities are known for their strong global rankings, high-quality education, and excellent student support. What stood out most to me was the focus on preparing students for real-world careers by developing practical skills and encouraging the application of knowledge to solve real-world problems, which was exactly what I was looking for at that stage of my academic journey. 

Why I chose Newcastle University

I chose Newcastle University because of its strong academic reputation and high ranking, as well as the wide range of specialised modules it offers. When I reviewed the course content, I found that modules closely matched my interests and reflected the skills needed for future industry challenges. Modules included:

• modelling materials and processes
• lifetime prediction and design for reliability
• environmental impact assessment
• sustainable industry and LCA applications
• renewable energy and hydrogen systems 

How my subject has prepared me for the future

This degree prepares students for their future by developing practical problem-solving skills and encouraging independent thinking. Throughout the course, we also improved essential skills such as teamwork and presentation, which are extremely valuable in professional and research environments.  

A word on my career journey so far

After graduating from my MSc in Chemical Engineering at Newcastle University, I began exploring opportunities in the field and actively applied for roles related to my discipline. Although entering the industry was challenging at first, the experience helped me build resilience and clarified my interest in research and applied engineering work. I have also discovered that I really enjoy research, and I'm now considering pursuing a PhD, potentially at Newcastle University, to further develop my skills and academic interests. 

My advice to you as a future student

I would advise students to stay curious and keep learning beyond the classroom, because this field is very practical and always changing. Getting involved in projects and research early makes a big difference in building real skills.