International Woman's Day - Iliana Dimitrova Dimitrova
To celebrate International Woman’s Day today (Monday 8 March 2021) we are showcasing and celebrating women's achievements. #IWD2021 #ChooseToChallenge
We spoke to student Iliana Dimitrova Dimitrova, currently in Year 3 of her BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering course.
She describes her determination to gain an engineering career - as a female student in a STEM field.
Iliana explained:
“Before coming to college, I had just graduated from secondary school in Bulgaria, where I studied French and Physics. I also took part in plenty extracurricular activities such as Astronomy Classes, Physics and Maths clubs and even taught French to pupils.
I was determined I wanted to pursue engineering studies abroad - and more specifically in Scotland. I have always been interested in science and was also born in a family of engineers. My mother is an Aircraft Engineer, my grandfather was an Air Traffic Controller, so I was brought up aspiring to be part of the aviation industry. The development of aircraft design during the past few years has shown an impressive future, including complete electrification, research on more bio fuels, increasing the fuel efficiency and innovative designs. My ambition is to take part of a project which will further improve the current state of the aviation industry.
During my first two years of study, I gained the knowledge which enabled me to apply for an internship with a world-renowned university, KAUST, Saudi Arabia. During my collaboration with KAUST, I carried out research on ‘Engine Detonation’, allowing me to connect with a number of researchers and grow my network. It improved my communication skills as well as giving me confidence in setting up high goals for my future. Thanks to the preparation I had from my course in Perth College UHI, my CV now includes some impressive features!
One of my projects involved designing, 3D printing and testing an aircraft wing in the wind tunnels in the hangar on campus. This was truly inspiring because the practical work we do in college creates new skillsets for the students. Being able to witness the theory of aerodynamics in practice in a controlled environment is definitely exhilarating. Additionally, the first time I was introduced to the flight simulator in the hangar hinted to me that I might have an interest in pursuing a pilot license after graduating from BEng Aircraft Engineering.
Perth College UHI’s campus is situated close enough to the town and is surrounded by nature. For me, this is a huge advantage over other universities. It consists of four different buildings which are well-equipped to meet the needs of students. My two favourite places on campus are the hangar, where a light aircraft is available for practical work, and the library with its vast collection of books, journals, films and even music. The library is a place where brainstorming is carried, great projects are planned and where support is provided. There are many places for gatherings indoors and out, which allows for meeting new people.
My experience at Perth College UHI is very positive, and what mostly contributed to this was that my high expectations in regards to the quality of teaching were met by the staff. I am also very happy to have extremely creative and bright classmates. Due to the small class sizes, the dialogue between staff members and students is easier. It is very helpful to have that as a resource, because in a case of difficulty with a subject, I can rely on my tutors to respond to my request of additional support. The events organised by students in Perth College UHI, such as quizzes, competitions and fundraisers help people meet and explore their interests together.
Being a member of a few societies and organisations related to STEM and Women in Engineering, I have the opportunity to attend interesting conferences and seminars. Recently, I have also started spending time learning coding, as I believe it is an important skill for anyone that wants a future in engineering.
The knowledge and skills obtained during my degree in Perth College UHI will give me the ability to apply for a prestige Master's program. My plan has always been to study in Toulouse, France, also named the Aviation Capital of Europe. As a female student in a STEM field, I find it of upmost importance to aim high and work harder. Perth College UHI fuelled my passion for engineering and motivated me to pursue post-graduate studies. The university enabled me to carry world-class publishable research in collaboration with two other institutions, Edinburgh Napier and KAUST. I believe this will make me stand out from the crowd when applying for future studies or jobs in the industry.
As an Aircraft Engineering female student, I can vouch for the professionalism, inclusiveness and quality of teaching taking place in Perth College UHI. Prior to applying for the course, I was anxious I wouldn’t be accepted by my colleagues or tutors, but my experience by far has showed that Perth College UHI is an institution which uplifts one's confidence and boosts their chances of success. My advice to anyone who wants to apply for Perth College UHI is to be self-assured, ready to be challenged and most importantly- to be ready to make a difference. It is all worth it, because at the end, the skills and knowledge offered will stay with you and will open many doors from which to choose.
Project: Aerodynamic Wind-Tunnel Testing
One of the most exciting projects I have worked on in college was in Year 2: Aerodynamics and Propulsion. After printing the 3D design in the hangar, the wing’s aerodynamic properties were evaluated in a wind tunnel to investigate the drag, lift and boundary layer separation characteristics. After an extensive study, I was able to suggest modifications which would improve the airflow over the wing. This assignment expanded my curiosity towards aerodynamic behaviours and the design of aircraft wings, as well as giving me the chance to practice 3D design.
