Electronics Student is a great “ASET”

Tim Chapman, a final year Computer Systems Engineering student (who completed an industrial Placement at BAE Systems Ltd, last year) has won the annual essay competition run by ASET (Association for Sandwich Education and Training) with a prize of £700.
The objective of the essay was to write about the experience gained upon working a year in industry, where academic and work-based learning are fully integrated. Tim’s essay was entitled “Industrial placements; beyond academic learning” and gives an account of his experience both in terms of his apprehensions and achievements, and concludes that undertaking his year out in industry has enhanced his studies.
After spending his Placement Year at BAE Systems, Tim returned to the University of Kent to complete his studies, which include a final year project which is being sponsored by BAE Systems.
A small reception will be held for Tim Chapman on Wednesday 13th May 2009 in the Department of Electronics where he will be presented with his prize.
Professor Sarah Spurgeon, Head of the Department of Electronics said:
‘I was delighted to hear of Tim’s success in the ASET competition. Within the Department of Electronics at the University of Kent we are fully committed to the important role of the work placement in giving our students the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills they have developed during our taught programmes in an industrial context. These strong links with industry were commended by the Institution of Engineering and Technology during a recent accreditation visit and Tim’s essay is further endorsement of the experience. I am sure this essay will be helpful to future students.’
Extract from Tim Chapman’s essay:
‘All in all, the industrial placement year is an invaluable experience that should not be missed. If you have the option, I highly recommend that you make use of the opportunity. At worst, you will come away with experience to enhance your CV for future job applications and have some idea what work is like. At best, you will gain an understanding of your chosen subject and what aspect of this most interests you. This is something that cannot be taught; you must learn this lesson for yourself.’
You can read Tim’s full essay on www.ee.kent.ac.uk/industry.
All degrees offered by the Electronics Department offer a placement year. Further information on taking a year out in industry can be obtained from the Departmental Industrial Liaison Officer, Catherine Butler or visit www.ee.kent.ac.uk/industry.
Further information about ASET can be found at www.asetonline.org.