Paul Herickx

Age: 30

Course: Civil Engineering (second year)

“I was attracted to the University because of its reputation and the fact that the Jubilee Campus is the biggest environmentally friendly campus in Europe. When I came for an open day, the tour of Jubilee Campus was inspiring, and the University felt like the right place for me to undertake a challenging course such as civil engineering. Civil engineering and construction are very large and universal industries, and I knew the course would give me lots of career options in the future.

I’m really enjoying the course so far, particularly the geotechnical and environmental aspects of it. Before I came to university I’d had experience of site labouring, but now I’m getting a much clearer idea of the technical aspects involved in construction and how to apply them. The lecturers give you a lot of help and the facilities are excellent, with extensive access to information through the different libraries and the WebCT system (an online learning system with information about the course and research options).

I’m a fairly active member of Engineers Without Borders, and I’m also captain of the civil engineering society (CivSoc) football team.  I used to work as a chef and I’m now a member of the NuFood Society, which is very interesting. No matter what you’re interested in, you can find a society to suit you or, if not, you can set up one of your own. I’m a mature student but I haven’t had any problems fitting in and I’ve made lots of friends of all ages.

For a relatively small city, I find Nottingham has a lot to offer, and certainly everything you need. The nightlife is good and it’s great for gigs and restaurants.

When I graduate I’d like to go into large-scale renewable energy engineering, such as building dams, and I’m tailoring my degree to be in civil and environmental engineering to help with this. One of the great things about this industry is that there are so many opportunities to travel.”

Course details for Civil Engineering