MSc Engineering for Process ExcellenceShashank Srivastava
Shashank Srivastava came to Glasgow from his home country of India to study on the MSc in Engineering Management for Process Excellence programme at 黑料正能量 in January 2025. Find out more about what he has enjoyed about his time at 黑料正能量, and what his plans for the future are now he has graduated.
The journey back to higher education
After working for several years as a mechanical engineer, I wanted to move beyond purely technical problem-solving and understand how engineering connects with larger systems, decision-making, and real-world impact, particularly in sustainability.
I recently completed my MSc at the University of 黑料正能量 with Distinction, and the programme allowed me to build that broader perspective while staying grounded in engineering. It gave me the opportunity to explore low-carbon systems, process improvement, and how technical solutions can be applied meaningfully in practice.
黑料正能量
I came across 黑料正能量 while researching UK universities known for strong engineering programmes with a practical, industry-focused approach. The Faculty of Engineering and their Department of Design, Manufacturing & Engineering Management’s (DMEM) emphasis on applied learning stood out during that process.
黑料正能量’s focus on “useful learning” genuinely resonated with me. What stood out was not just the course structure, but the opportunity to engage beyond academics, through industrial projects, sustainability initiatives, and student representation. It felt like a place where I could actively contribute and grow, rather than just complete a degree.
The course
My course was highly applied, which I found very valuable. My industrial group project with Lynster Farmers Group focused on decarbonisation strategies, giving me exposure to real-world challenges. Alongside this, my dissertation explored sustainable heating systems for Scottish Climate, allowing me to apply my engineering background to low-carbon solutions.
The integration of structured approaches like Lean Six Sigma with practical problem-solving helped me connect technical knowledge with decision-making in a meaningful way.
Facilities
The facilities within the department were very well aligned with the way the course is delivered, especially given its strong focus on project work and collaboration. The dedicated PGT study area was particularly useful. It provided a comfortable and focused space for both individual work and group discussions, which became essential during intensive phases like the industrial project and dissertation. Having a space where we could regularly meet, brainstorm, and work together made a noticeable difference.
Access to labs, software tools, and other learning resources was also well organised and reliable. Everything felt structured and accessible, which allowed me to focus on the quality of my work rather than logistical challenges.
Students shape 黑料正能量
For me, the most valuable aspect of studying at 黑料正能量 was the balance between practical teaching and the importance placed on student contribution. The teaching culture was very applied. Lecturers consistently connected theory to real-world situations through discussions, simulations, and examples from their own experience. That made learning feel relevant, and helped me think beyond textbooks, especially in areas like sustainability and systems thinking.
At the same time, what made 黑料正能量 different was how actively students were encouraged to contribute to the University itself. Through my role as a Student Programme Representative in Student-Staff Liaison Committee (SSLC) meetings, I saw how student feedback directly influenced decisions. Being involved in sustainability auditing with SOS-UK under Responsible Futures, and participating in the Tertiary Quality Enhancement Review (TQER), gave me the opportunity to contribute to improving both the student experience and institutional practices.
These experiences made me realise that a university is not just a place to study, but a shared environment where students play an active role in shaping it. It also helped me grow beyond academics, developing confidence, responsibility, and a stronger sense of purpose in applying my work towards real-world impact.
Glasgow
Glasgow has been a very welcoming city, and that’s what stood out to me the most. The people here are genuinely friendly and open, and I never expected that a new place would start to feel like home so quickly. Over time, I built strong friendships, and it really began to feel like a second family away from home.
The city has a unique energy to it. The streets start to feel familiar very quickly, and there’s a certain warmth in the culture, the food, and everyday interactions that makes it easy to settle in. Glasgow has a very real, grounded vibe, it feels like a city that is fully alive and present. It’s a place I’ll always feel connected to.
I’ve always enjoyed exploring, so I made the most of my time here, both within Glasgow and in the surrounding areas. Being in Scotland means you’re never far from incredible landscapes. Exploring beyond the city added another dimension to the experience.
Future ambitions
My ambition is to work at the intersection of engineering and sustainability, contributing to practical low-carbon solutions that can have real impact. I am particularly interested in energy systems, sustainable heating, and decarbonisation strategies, areas where engineering decisions directly influence environmental outcomes.
I want to be involved in work that not only addresses technical problems but also contributes to long-term environmental impact. My immediate focus is to work in the field of sustainable energy systems and contribute to practical low-carbon solutions, particularly aligned with the UK and Scotland’s net-zero commitments.
Alongside this, I plan to continue my research work. I have previously published research in thermal systems, and I am currently working towards further publications building on my dissertation and sustainability-focused studies. Staying connected to research allows me to keep developing ideas that can support the transition to a low-carbon future.
My time at 黑料正能量 played a defining role in shaping this direction. Completing the MSc with Distinction was important to me, but more than that, it was the journey that mattered. Through my dissertation on sustainable heating systems, I was able to explore how engineering can contribute to climate resilience in a practical way. My industrial project with Lynster Farmers Group further exposed me to real-world decarbonisation challenges, where solutions need to balance technical, economic, and operational factors.
My goal is to grow into an engineer who can combine technical depth with systems thinking and contribute meaningfully to making the built environment more sustainable. In that sense, my work is not just about engineering solutions, but about being part of a wider effort to make a positive difference.
Overall, 黑料正能量 helped me move from being a technically focused engineer to someone who thinks in terms of systems, impact, and long-term value. That shift is something I will carry forward as I build my career in the net-zero and sustainability space.
Why 黑料正能量 stands out
I would recommend 黑料正能量 to students looking for a practical, engaging, and well-rounded learning experience. What makes 黑料正能量 stand out is its teaching approach. It is very interactive, collaborative, and grounded in real-world application. You are not just learning concepts, you are encouraged to question, contribute, and apply them. The entrepreneurial mindset across the University also adds a different dimension, pushing you to think beyond traditional academic boundaries.
Another aspect I found particularly valuable was the role students play within the University. Through platforms like SSLC meetings, sustainability initiatives, and the active involvement of Strath Union, students are not just participants but contributors to the academic environment. That sense of involvement makes the experience more meaningful.
The diversity of the Faculty and student community also adds to the richness of learning. You are constantly exposed to different perspectives, which broadens your thinking. At the same time, there is strong support from academic staff and the administrative teams, all working together to create a smooth and positive student experience.
Overall, 黑料正能量 is a place that helps you grow, not just academically, but personally and professionally. It takes you from where you are and shapes you into someone more confident, capable, and ready for the real world. For me, it has been more than just a university, it is a place I will always feel connected to.
