Student Spotlight - Erica Lo Presti
The Aviation industry requires high calibre engineers at every stage of the product life cycle, from conceptual design through to in-service support. Studying in the Aviation department at UHI Perth will prepare you to meet the ever-growing need for engineers in this innovative and progressive sector. Aircraft Engineering is a strategically important industry for Scotland with companies such as BAE Systems and Rolls Royce employing people in high skill, high-paying jobs. We had a chat with one of our fourth-year students as she was nearing the end of her degree ✈️.
Can you introduce yourself?
Erica Lo Presti and I am 25. I am now a resident in the UK, however when I go back to visit my family during the holidays, I am going to Italy. I moved to the UK from Slovakia where I was working, specifically to study at UHI.
What course are you studying?
I’ve just finished my 4th year of BEng (Hons) Aircraft Engineering
Did you consider other universities when you were deciding to study? If so, why did you choose us?
Yes, I did also consider the UWS, however I chose UHI as I liked the idea of being closer to the Highlands and Edinburgh. I also liked the concept of more colleges and the Gàidhlig language mission of the university. I am a huge language nerd, so I really liked the involvement of UHI with keeping Gàidhlig alive.
Why was this the right course for you?
Because I knew I wanted to be an engineer, and I love aircraft and spacecraft. I already studied one year of Aerospace Engineering in Slovakia, and I knew it was what I wanted to study.
What do you think about the style of teaching and the support you’ve received from tutors and lecturers?
I really think that lecturers always tried to make the best out of every class. They all have different teaching styles, but we’ve been often asked for feedback and suggestions to better tailor the classes to our needs. I think this is very important, as everyone learns differently.
I always felt supported by the staff when needed.
Have you been/ were you involved in any sports, social or cultural clubs or activities whilst at UHI Perth?
Not really, I have participated in some events organised by HISA, and volunteered at events such as open days and UCAS day.
Have you undertaken any student placements?
I did, between my second and third year, however the placement has not been found by UHI. I did a placement in Turin, my hometown, with an aviation company. That was to satisfy my year three module called work placement.
What career direction would you like to take after studying?
I am still at that point where I am trying to decide if I want to go to work, or if I want to pursue a master’s degree. I am currently applying for both jobs and master’s programs in the UK and abroad and will see what happens. However, I am almost certain I want to work as a Research and Development Engineer for some aerospace company.
How do you feel your studies will help you in your career progression?
They opened the door to the career I want to pursue; I would not be able to consider engineering jobs if I wouldn’t have acquired all the skills that the course provided me with.
What are your favourite things about UHI Perth?
It is hard to say, but I feel like my university experience until now has been very pleasant. The facilities are very good, and I can for sure say that my favourite places in the campus are the Aviation Hub (where I spend a lot of times due to my studies), and the climbing wall (where some of my classmates and I have been going for a while to relax and distract ourselves from the course).
Best thing about living here?
Scotland has among the best natural sceneries I have ever seen. When the sun shines, it feels unreal how beautiful it is. I love driving north and enjoying the highlands (and Islands during the summer months), it really makes my time here special.
Kinnoull Hill over looking the River Tay in the county of Perthshire in Autumn.
Is there anything else you feel like telling us about your experience at UHI?
I am very grateful for all the support I found at UHI. I often think about my future, and I know I will miss these times.
