"I've found that being a woman in this field has its advantages, because you stand out. So everyone knows who you are and your achievements stand out too!"

Engineering - Mechanical engineer

Ifzal Parveen
Mechanical engineer, Federal Modul

After I finished my A-Levels, I applied for an Apprenticeship through an advert I'd seen. I went to a three day open day at Bradford University in engineering, which I really enjoyed.

An Apprenticeship is a good choice financially because you don't have to take out loans, which is an advantage you'll have over a graduate. Another is that you'll have training in a specific area and lots of experience. You're also guaranteed a job at the end of it, in an environment that you're familiar with.

I love engineering because it's all project work. I'm continually working towards a clear goal and, because of progressions in technology, I'm learning new things every day. And then I can apply what I've learnt to practical situations.

I've found that being a woman in this field has its advantages, because you stand out. So everyone knows who you are and your achievements stand out too! Another bonus is that it's well paid and there are plenty of jobs around.