Flora Wright

2011 Saltire Scholar, University of Strathclyde

GE Energy

 

Tell us a bit about yourself…

I'm in my 5th year, studying Electrical & Mechanical Engineering at Strathclyde University. I'm originally from the South-Side of Glasgow but also have strong family connections in the Isle of Skye as that's where my mother is from.

What internship were you chosen for?

I spent eight weeks working in the Wind Electrical department of GE Energy in a city called Schenectady, in Upstate New York. I was placed in a design team and spent much of my time working on a new power cable and drip-loop design for the new GE wind turbine. I was given proper responsibility, working on the conceptual design and then presented it to a chief engineer. Most of the team I was working with were based in Germany with only three of us in Schenectady. This of course meant that I got a truly International experience - conducting meetings over the phone, in conferences and on 'telepresence'. As well as this I also got the opportunity to work on a confidential project in which I played a lead role. It was pretty cool but I can't say much more than that!

What has your Saltire Foundation experience meant to you?

My Saltire Foundation experience has been awesome! It has given me the opportunity to do a placement in a fascinating company which I couldn't have even dreamed about before, and it gave me International experience in new country and the opportunity to travel. Living in New York was the first time I've ever lived alone (which i took to quite nicely!) and having been given a car I can honestly say that driving on the other side of the road wasn't that bad!! I also met some fantastic people thanks to the Saltire Foundation, both in the US and back here in Scotland - great friends and I'm sure the future leaders of Scotland!

What is the main benefit of having become a Scholar?

The main benefit is the confidence I now have. Not only am I proud to say that I'm a Saltire Alumni, but I have completed a work placement that had me working on real projects that were of benefit to the company. I felt like I was treated just like the graduates on the company's Edison program which has given me the drive and confidence in my final year to get the best marks and apply for the top graduate schemes and positions.