Why Callum chose Reading
"The ability to harness the Earth's natural cycles and transform these processes into useable energy is something I have always found fascinating. It's exciting to choose a subject that tackles some of the world's largest sustainability issues, which will have positive impacts on a global scale.
"I chose the MSc course at Reading as it is one of the very few programmes that teaches the technology side of the subject, but is open to someone from a non-engineering background like myself.
"This, coupled with the School of Construction Management and Engineering's excellent research reputation, made it the perfect course to pursue my career in the field of renewable energy."
Prepared for industry
During his studies, Callum benefited from the School of Construction Management and Engineering's links with industry.
"Another strength of the course was the use of industry professionals to lecture specific areas of a module.
"This kept the lectures interesting as there were a wide range of teaching techniques used. They also allowed me to approach projects using a more commercial/business-orientated mindset, which is crucial when working in industry.
"I particularly enjoyed the Sustainable Heat and Power module. It gave a solid grounding in the technical and engineering aspects of renewables (solar, wind, hydro and bioenergy). We were assessed as if we were energy consultants pitching ideas to developers.
"For example, the solar assignment and the use of PVsyst software not only helped me develop my knowledge of an industry-standard piece of software. It allowed me to create my own solar PV array and create a business case for the system based on its estimated financial performance."
Supportive community
Throughout his studies, our staff and student community supported Callum to achieve his potential.
"There was a particularly strong community-feel within the School. It felt like we were all working together on solving energy issues as a team, as opposed to just reproducing assignments.
"The course leader, Dr Maria Vahdati, is incredibly enthusiastic, helpful and dedicated to providing a fantastic experience for the students. I had the pleasure of having my dissertation supervised by Maria, and her support throughout the teaching year and individual project was invaluable.
"I was particularly proud to achieve the highest average mark of any engineering-based MSc course during the year I was there. This would have been impossible without the continued support of Maria and the rest of the School's staff."
For all our futures
After graduation, Callum joined Ricardo Energy and Environment as an Analyst Consultant.
"My duties are split between both the Renewables and Energy & Carbon Management teams. I'm working on a wide range of projects to create more sustainable energy solutions for the future.
"I cannot recommend this MSc course enough to anyone who has an interest in renewable energy!"
Tracy Tunge: tackling global challenges
Amal Khawaja: taking her career to the next level
Dr Dimitris Antoniadis: finding a new approach
Dimitris took advantage of our flexible study options to complete his MSc Project Management course while working in industry.