My long-term academic and career trajectory, focused on building deep understanding, technical competence, and good engineering judgement over time.

GCSE (now – 2026)

Current stage

Focus

Establishing strong academic foundations while developing the habits and mindset required for engineering and scientific work.

Aims

  • Build robust fundamentals in mathematics and physics, prioritising problem-solving and conceptual understanding.
  • Develop disciplined study habits and the ability to work consistently over long periods.
  • Begin approaching problems like an engineer: identifying constraints, making assumptions explicit, and reflecting on outcomes.
  • Teach myself transferable technical skills, including programming, electronics, basic systems thinking, and documentation.
  • Read widely around aerospace, physics, and engineering, and actively record insights and questions in structured notes.
  • Start building and documenting small-to-medium projects, focusing on learning and iteration, not just success.

Goal

To achieve grade 9s in the majority of GCSE subjects, while gaining clarity about how engineering works in practice and which areas I want to pursue further.

A-Level (2026 – 2028)

Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics, Computer Science, and EPQ

Focus

Depth, rigour, and intellectual independence.

Aims

  • Develop a strong theoretical grounding in calculus, mechanics, modelling, and computation.
  • Apply theory through larger, more structured engineering projects, with clear requirements, constraints, and evaluation.
  • Engage in national competitions and olympiads in mathematics, physics, and engineering to stretch problem-solving ability.
  • Use the EPQ to explore a technically demanding question in depth, developing research skills and formal academic writing.
  • Improve my ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and precisely in writing, diagrams, and explanations.
  • Begin shaping a clear academic profile suitable for a Cambridge Engineering application.

Goal

To achieve 5 A*s across A-Levels and EPQ, supported by sustained engagement, well-documented projects, and strong academic references.

University (from 2028)

Engineering degree – intended focus: aerospace

Focus

Developing breadth first, then depth, while learning how real engineering decisions are made.

Aims

  • Build a strong foundation across core engineering disciplines: mechanics, structures, thermodynamics, control, and computation.
  • Develop a systems-level understanding of engineering problems, from requirements to design to testing.
  • Take part in design–build–test projects, both individual and team-based.
  • Seek internships, placements, or research experiences related to aerospace and space systems.
  • Continue maintaining a detailed portfolio of projects, notes, and reflections that show intellectual development over time.

Goal

To graduate with a first-class degree, a clear technical direction, and strong preparation for research or advanced engineering roles.

Postgraduate Study (likely)

PhD

Focus

Specialisation and original contribution.

Aims

  • Specialise in a focused technical area relevant to aerospace and space systems
    (e.g. propulsion, guidance and control, aerodynamics, structures, or computational modelling).
  • Learn how to formulate research questions and turn them into rigorous, publishable work.
  • Develop advanced simulation, modelling, or experimental tools.
  • Strengthen academic writing, presentation, and collaboration skills.

Goal

To complete high-quality research while developing the expertise required for complex, high-impact engineering work.

Career (long-term)

Astronautic engineering (e.g. ESA or similar organisations)

Focus

Applying theory and research to real, safety-critical systems.

Aims

  • Work on complex aerospace or space systems where reliability, verification, and sound engineering judgement are essential.
  • Contribute to long-term projects that require deep technical understanding and collaboration across disciplines.
  • Continue learning throughout my career, adapting to new technologies and challenges.

Goal

To work as an engineer in the aerospace or space sector, contributing to projects that push technical boundaries while remaining grounded in rigorous engineering principles.