With over a decade of industry experience, Hassan is a mature student bringing real-world insight to his academic journey. From working with global companies to creating engineering projects, he’s combining his experience with a passion for hands-on learning.
Tell us about yourself
I am a mature student at TEDI-London. I’ve been in the engineering field for about 12-15 years now and have worked on many projects from small-scale to nationwide. I am in quite fortunate position to work for many Fortune Global 500 companies, such as Bombardier, FedEx, Amazon, Skansa and several London boroughs. Above all the proudest position I hold is being a husband and a father.
What drew you to engineering?
I’ve always been an engineer at heart, even before I knew what the word meant. As a child, I was constantly taking things apart just to see how they worked, it was a nightmare for my parents, since I could rarely put them back together! That curiosity to understand systems and solve problems has stayed with me ever since.
What do you think about project-based learning?
For me, project-based learning has been an absolute lifesaver. Over a decade ago, I enrolled at a more traditional university, but the endless tests and exams left me disheartened because it wasn’t the kind of engineering I had imagined. Having ADHD and autism, I’ve always found exams challenging, even when I’ve done all the work and know all the answers. TEDI’s practical approach allows me to demonstrate my skills in a way that plays to my strengths. It’s much closer to real engineering.
What’s the student community like?
It’s healthy, close-knit and supportive. From first years to postgrads, everyone is approachable and willing to help, it really feels like we’re all cut from the same cloth. My personal commitments mean I’m not as social as some of the other students, but compared to my previous university experience, TEDI feels much more engaged and collaborative.
How has the collaborative setting at TEDI affected your learning process?
Collaboration at TEDI is both a challenge and a gift. Group work relies heavily on everyone pulling their weight, so outcomes can vary, just like in the workplace. But that’s part of the learning experience. What I value most is the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives everyone brings. Even after 12 – 15 years in the industry, I’m often surprised by the unique approaches students take to solving problems.
Why did you choose TEDI-London?
I was drawn to TEDI because it felt like home for the engineering side of inventing. Years ago, I invested thousands in an “inventors” course, but it only covered the marketing and business aspects. At TEDI, I found the creative, technical environment I had been searching for and on top of that, I get to earn a degree. One of my most memorable projects has been my User-Centred Product Design project, which unexpectedly turned me into a plant owner! After experiencing plant infestations firsthand, I designed and tested a device to help protect plants. I later refined the idea in my Design for Manufacture module, and I’m still iterating on it even after the project ended.
Is there a particular discipline you’re enjoying the most?
I’d love to go into manufacturing because it brings together the disciplines I’m most interested in. I enjoy product design, especially seeing ideas come to life, but I’m also passionate about creating lean processes that minimise waste and contribute positively to the planet.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
In the future, I see myself creating and manufacturing new products, whether selling, licensing or producing them through unconventional, decentralised methods like pop-up mini factories. One way or another, I’ll be designing and making products. That’s where my passion lies.
How do you balance your studies with life outside of university?
The short answer is – I don’t! I lean heavily on my wife and support system, who have been with me every step of the way. From my application to late night study sessions, she has been my rock. Honestly, she deserves this degree as much as I do. As a mature student with full-time commitments, something had to give, and for me, that was sleep. I’ve sacrificed a lot, but I truly believe earning this degree at TEDI is worth it.
What would you say to someone thinking about applying to TEDI-London?
Full steam ahead! If you’re genuinely passionate about engineering and ready to commit, TEDI offers a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in hands-on engineering from day one. The makerspaces are incredible and unlike my past experiences where access was limited, here you can practically live in them if you want. The staff are as dedicated as the students, often going above and beyond their hours to support us. TEDI isn’t the kind of place where you’re just another number, it’s a community that nurtures you to do your best.
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