NWED case study: Chloe Adams-Pickford, engineering student at Oxford University

The 19-year old Oxford University student discusses her path to studying engineering

Chloe Adams-Pickford's didn't always want to be an engineer. As a child, the Oxford University student wanted to become a marine biologist, owing to her love of David Attenborough and his wildlife documentaries. However, having visited Florida and its famous NASA Space Centre, Adams-Pickford quickly grew to realise her passion for engineering and her desire to one day build rockets.

At school Adams-Pickford studied a wide range of Stem subjects including A levels in maths, further maths, physics and chemistry. Having successfully completed her A Levels, she went on to take up a place at the University of Oxford where she studies Engineering Science.

Adams-Pickford said: “My favourite subject at school had always been maths. The modules I enjoyed the most were the mechanics ones where I could see how maths was being applied and meant I could visualise the problems. I organised a week’s work experience at an engineering company to start at the end of my Year 12 studies. This exposure further cemented my love for engineering and I knew it would be an exciting career choice as it includes the maths and physics theory I enjoy so much.”

While still in sixth form Adams-Pickford began to look into the support available to her and was referred to the IET website by a fellow student. On applying for the IET Great Exhibition Scholarship – part of the IET’s Diamond Jubilee scholarship prizes – she was told she’d won in 2014 and now receives £1,500 a year while she studies.

Adams-Pickford said: “I received the first instalment of the IET Great Exhibition Scholarship in January 2015 and I haven’t spent a large amount of it just yet. I plan to use the money to fund a trip to Swaziland next summer where I will be helping to plan the infrastructure for a tourist community. I’m passionate about using my skill set to support people in other countries who may not be as fortunate as me.”

Find out more about the IET Diamond Jubilee Scholarship.