Student Experience - Isabeau
Isabeau is a first-year bachelor student from Belgium, who moved to Delft for her studies and lives in a student house to experience ‘the real student life’.
Why did you decide to study AE?
“As I grew up, I always knew I wanted to learn more about physics and mathematics. In addition, I have always been passionate about aviation and science in general. Therefore, I decided I wanted to study Aerospace Engineering quite early. Additionally, my parents, who studied engineering as well, used to tell me about TU Delft and the excellent engineering programs the university offers and moreover, how TU Delft is basically referred to as the MIT of Europe.
So, I went to the open days on campus, where I was able to follow a lecture on Introduction to Aerospace Engineering I. After this day, I knew that this engineering study was meant for me. Subsequently, I signed up for AE and participated in the selection procedure.”
How do you like the study?
“A lot of people ask me if I genuinely like my study, as everyone around me sees that it takes a lot of effort to keep up with classes and stay focused. Nevertheless, it has been the best decision that I have ever made. For me, the key to continuing the study and thriving every single day has been discipline. No matter how much I enjoy studying aerospace engineering, sometimes it just gets too much, as it requires a lot of hard work. Besides this, the four exam periods during the first year caused a lot of stress, because you constantly deal with the pressure of getting your BSA.”
How do you like student life in Delft and the atmosphere at AE?
“I have been studying in Delft for over a year now and I could not have been happier with my choice. I have met amazing people in and outside the AE faculty. For me, it feels amazing to share my passion with people who are as passionate about aerospace engineering as I am. My friends and I always went on a lot of study dates throughout the year to keep each other motivated, because doing something together is always better than alone.
Furthermore, Delft is a beautiful city with a lovely park, a vibrant city center and so on. There are several student associations and sports clubs that you can join to make your student life more interesting, for instance, the association of our faculty, VSV Leonardo da Vinci. In my opinion, it is such a wholesome community with lots of parties and drinks you can attend. So, I would definitely recommend all AE students to join the student association!”
What do you want to do later with your AE study?
“In my career, I would like to work as an aerodynamicist, because of the complex yet interesting science. Preferably, I would love to do this at an aerospace manufacturing company. But as I learn more about aerodynamics throughout my study, I might consider a job in the F1 industry. Additionally, as all the engineering industries have fewer women, I would consider it a privilege to be able to inspire more women to join the engineering world as well!”
Do you have any tips for students looking for a study and making a study choice?
“In my opinion, while making a study choice, it is very important to choose a study you genuinely feel excited about, because a study is of no use if you do not genuinely enjoy it. If you are an aviation or space enthusiast and interested in engineering courses, this study will probably be a good fit! It is still crucial to comprehend that studying aerospace engineering is everything but simple. You need to be aware that the study is harder than other engineering programs. Nevertheless, it is doable if you put in the hard work, participate in lectures, and have the required discipline throughout the year.”
