Dafydd Jenkins
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering
Mechanical engineering has always been an interest of his, says Dafydd Jenkins who decided to take on a Bachelor of Engineering Technology to complement his career in the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).
“I have a keen passion for knowing why and how things work. I was drawn to aviation and subsequently joined the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) as an aircraft technician. I then shifted roles within the RNZAF to become a flight engineer on the P-3K2 Orion aircraft, and I’m now looking to progress towards becoming an engineering officer within the RNZAF. This requires an engineering degree to step into it, which is provided at AUT.”
Expecting to graduate at the end of the year, he is already looking forward to applying the knowledge from his degree to his RNZAF career.
“I’m passionate about pursuing a career in mechanical engineering within the RNZAF. Being an engineering officer will enable me to leverage my technical skills and experience in aviation, and contribute to innovative solutions and outputs for the RNZAF.”
Becoming a student again
Because he is more of a practical learner, Dafydd says he wasn’t sure at first if university study would work for him. But he needn’t have worried.
“I was worried that university study wouldn’t suit me and would be all about theory and essays. But I’ve found that AUT offers a good balance between theory lectures and hands-on learning through various labs and projects. This mix has helped me to achieve great grades in my study. I was never the biggest essay writer, but AUT provides you with the tools and feedback you need to succeed in your studies.”
Becoming a student again was initially a little daunting, he admits.
“Fortunately, the AUT staff and the university environment were supportive during this transition. There are plenty of resources on offer, the lecturers are approachable and there to help, and the atmosphere is collaborative and encourages continuous learning.
“Being around likeminded people always makes the process easier too. As an older student, it’s been interesting to meet others from all walks of life. It has been mentally stimulating adjusting to student life, and the campus is packed with facilities to ensure you’re comfortable studying or relaxing between lectures. I was also surprised that in some of my lectures I wasn’t the oldest student! Meeting new people and being able to discuss the course content has definitely been a highlight for me.”
Advice for other students
Dafydd has some great advice for other students.
“Don’t be afraid to put your hand up and ask the questions. There are no silly questions in the learning environment.”
Take the time to get to know your peers, he adds.
“You may have to carry out projects together with your classmates, which can give you a different perspective on the learning. Plus unwinding after a lecture or exam is always better when you can catch up with your classmates.”
