“Harper’s high graduate employment statistics confirmed my choice of university,” says Engineering student Sam.

All of Sam Roskell’s university choices had a mandatory year in industry, but for Sam, the BEng (Hons) Mechanical Engineering degree at Harper Adams and its placement opportunities were a cut above the rest.

“Harper’s high graduate employment statistics confirmed my choice of university - they told me that Harper was doing placements right and with its industry-leading reputation, it was the best place for me to study.”

Sam describes himself as fascinated by the workings of cars, so when it came to choosing what to study, there was only ever one degree in the pipeline for the 22-year-old.

“I love finding out how things work. I studied product design at school and then worked at a mechanical engineering firm, there was never going to be another course for me,” explains the Engineering Society member.

“Harper’s graduate employment statistics confirmed my choice, and combined with its reputation in the agricultural world, I could not ask for better job prospects.

“I’m not from a farming background, but I am interested in agriculture and country pursuits, so Harper has everything I like in one place, so it’s perfect for me.”

Explaining why he would recommend his course, Sam says:

“The lecturers have worked in industry and have insider knowledge that gives us a real insight into the sector we want to go into.

“It’s all very hands-on in every situation and theories are applied and demonstrated in class with the machinery and equipment that we have on site.

“The Engineering Design Centre in the library is a great asset too. There are lots of free computers that have the software you need for your assignments alongside textbooks and supplies.”

After completing his placement year, Sam, from Forton, Lancashire, is now investigating potential strategies to reduce plastic and composite waste in British Agriculture for his Honours Research Project.

“I’ll be doing surveys and involving a variety of farms from all over the country.

“I also want to explore what by-products could be sourced from the waste and re-used back on the farm, but we will have to see as I’m not sure the word count will stretch that far!”

When asked if he has enjoyed Harper’s social life, the university rugby-player says: “I don’t know how you could not, Harper is so much fun and there is such a sense of community here.”

Wondering why an Engineering degree at Harper is the best decision you could make? Check out our courses here.