Aerodynamics Undergraduate Review

Worked in 2 different teams - one internal research, and one project team. In the aerodynamics department, the day-to-day tasks are aimed at improving the department's knowledge of the aerodynamics of projects/future products. Daily tasks involve mainly coding (mainly MATLAB, but increasingly using Python), and reporting findings in PowerPoint. Projects could be a study into a certain product, or improving the in-house capabilities. Mainly only internal interactions, usually discussions with line managers.

I have improved my coding skills significantly on this placement, with a lot of my work being within MATLAB or Python. The in-house tools are fantastic for aiding your coding, and working on them allows you to improve the clarity of code. Also improved my report writing skills, particularly in terms of cutting down on conclusions to make reports clearer. Was also able to present some work to various teams, improving my presenting skills

Always felt like I was given freedom/responsibility with my tasks, which I felt was really important for my development over the 10 months. Everyone is happy to help if you need it, but my managers were also happy to leave me to my own devices if I had an idea/direction for a task. This was particularly great for development since it let me develop my own ideas, and then discuss them if I required any guidance. I was very happy with the 'meaningful'-ness of my work - most/all of my work felt valued and useful towards an end goal, and not just random tasks that were made up for the sake of it.

If I needed any support, guidance, or had any questions about anything about the company/department, someone would be happy to help and provide support/answers. Everyone in the department is friendly, and wants to help you develop as much as possible. Line managers are happy to just check in once a day if you don't have any problems, but will also be happy to help immediately if you have a problem - which I found really impressive/useful. HR and the early careers program (ECP) are always available and keep you up to date, and answer any questions you may have.

The culture within the department is good - the office is fairly quiet but discussions are encouraged, and everyone is friendly and happy to help you out. There's a reasonable amount of after-work socialising, whether that be playing sport, or going for drinks. There were group chats for socialising with other undergraduates (and graduates), so there is plenty of opportunity to socialise with people not in your department.

I've really enjoyed my placement as it's given me the experience that I wanted when I applied for it - an opportunity to experience aerodynamics in industry. The department has certainly given me many opportunities to expand my experience as much as possible (and let me choose the work I want to be involved in), which I'm very grateful for. They've also allowed me to be independent, given me responsibility and made me and my work feel valued - making the placement very enjoyable

Yes

Apply early as the deadline comes very quick (I think when I applied, it closed in late September/early October)! When completing the online application, take your time with the questions and complete them to the best of your ability. If you make it to the assessment centre, keep relaxed throughout and focus on giving clear and concise explanations for your reasoning. Revise any aerodynamics materials from previous/current university years to prepare for any technical questions.