Jessica Whitford
MEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering with Placement Year
Jessica鈥檚 passion for engineering began at the age of 13, when she set up her own one-person 3D design club during school lunchtimes. 鈥淓ven when the teacher didn鈥檛 show up, I did,鈥 she laughs. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 how much I loved it.鈥 Teaching herself software through YouTube tutorials, she soon discovered a world of possibilities; from Formula 1 to biomedical engineering and advanced manufacturing.
Personal experiences have also shaped her ambitions. Her father鈥檚 cancer treatment inspired her to consider how engineering can help transform medical technology. 鈥淚 want to work on solutions that make a difference to people鈥檚 lives,鈥 she says.
The Tamar Engineering Project has given Jessica the freedom to fully pursue her degree. 鈥淭he scholarship has allowed me to step away from part-time work and focus entirely on university,鈥 she explains. Commuting from Cornwall is challenging, but she鈥檚 consistently achieved distinction-level grades thanks to the time and energy she can now dedicate to her studies.
Her mentor has been invaluable in preparing her for the professional world. 鈥淗e鈥檚 helped me refine my CV, prepare for interviews, and think carefully about the skills I need to develop,鈥 Jessica says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 boosted my confidence as I prepare to apply for a placement year in Formula 1.鈥
Jessica is also thriving within the university community. She is an active member of the Formula Student Team, recently becoming Head of Manufacturing Integration. 鈥淲ithout the scholarship, I wouldn鈥檛 have had the time to commit to such a big role,鈥 she says. 鈥淚t鈥檚 also meant I can spend more time at home working with my family鈥檚 CNC machine, something that really builds my skills.鈥
Looking ahead, Jessica has ambitious goals. 鈥淚鈥檇 love to work in Formula 1 engineering,鈥 she says, 鈥渂ut I鈥檓 also open to using my skills in biomedical fields, where I know I could make an impact.鈥
And when it comes to the people behind her scholarship, she is clear: 鈥淭hank you for giving me the freedom to focus on my studies and passions. This has been the best educational experience of my life. You鈥檙e helping students become professionals. You鈥檙e giving us the space to develop, and the confidence to succeed.鈥
