Aurelija Tulauskaite
Student of the Year Award, sponsored by GE Aerospace
From curiosity to a future in engineering
Aurelija’s journey into engineering has been anything but conventional. With a degree in Comparative Literature and Film & TV Studies already behind her, she began her engineering journey in her 30s, driven by a curiosity about how things work and a passion for solving practical problems.
She chose HNC Mechatronics because it brought together electronics, programming and mechanical engineering, allowing her to explore different areas of engineering while discovering where her interests lay.
Learning by doing
Aurelija particularly enjoyed the practical side of her course and seeing how the theory she learned could be applied to real-world engineering.
One memorable moment was printing her first engineering drawing on A3 paper. Seeing something she had created become a physical, professional-looking document gave her a real sense of achievement – and a reminder of just how much she had developed.
Building confidence
Aurelija's biggest challenge was learning to work through difficult technical topics when they didn't immediately make sense. By breaking problems down into smaller steps, persevering and asking for help when needed, she became much more confident in solving problems independently.
Her engineering lecturer, Sameh, played an important role in that journey. His support, encouragement and passion for engineering helped Aurelija become more confident in her abilities and more ambitious about her future.
The small class environment also gave her opportunities to build close relationships with her lecturers, ask questions and explore topics beyond the course.
A new chapter
Completing her HNC in Mechatronics gave Aurelija the confidence and foundation to take her next step. She is now continuing her studies in Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Strathclyde.
She hopes to build a career where she can combine technical problem-solving with creativity and practical work, while continuing to explore the many different opportunities within engineering.
What’s next?
Aurelija's ambition is to complete an MEng in Electronic & Electrical Engineering. Beyond that, she is keeping her options open – whether that means progressing to a PhD or beginning a career in industry.
For now, she is focused on continuing to learn, staying curious and discovering where her interests take her.
Aurelija’s advice
It’s never too late to make a change.
Aurelija encourages students to make the most of the people around them, particularly their lecturers. Asking questions, staying behind after class and exploring subjects beyond what is required can lead to some of the most valuable learning experiences.
Her own journey is proof that changing direction can open up an entirely new future.
For Aurelija, college has been curious, engaging and fun.