Student story: Polina’s engineering journey 

Meet Polina, who is combining curiosity, creativity and hands-on learning to shape an exciting future in engineering. From exploring innovative solutions to embracing new challenges, her journey showcases what it means to be part of the TEDI-London community.  

What were you studying before coming to TEDI-London? 

I completed the International Baccalaureate (IBDP), where my Higher Level subjects were Maths Analysis and Approaches, Physics, Chemistry and English. On the Standard Level, I studied Economics and Russian Literature. These subjects not only gave me a well-rounded foundation but also helped me develop critical thinking skills and a global perspective, which I believe are essential for engineering. 

What drew you to engineering? 

I’ve always been fascinated by how systems work, from the simplest mechanisms to complex technological frameworks. The thrill of innovation and the opportunity to bring ideas to life have always been a big motivator for me. In the past two years, my interest in AI has grown significantly. It’s amazing to see how AI is transforming engineering, from machine learning applications to design optimisation.  

Why did you choose TEDI-London? 

What stood out to me was its unique approach. Unlike other undergraduate institutions, TEDI focuses on hands-on projects and real-world experiences in partnership with engineering companies. I was drawn to the idea of learning by doing – being able to create something tangible and see the results of my efforts. The curriculum and close collaboration with industry partners made it the perfect choice for me. 

What’s the student community like here? 

It’s incredibly welcoming and supportive. Whether it’s the academic staff, fellow students or the support team, everyone is approachable and ready to help. This openness makes it super easy to ask questions, request feedback and help and communicate any of your other needs. 

Are you involved in any social clubs through KCL? 

I am a member of the Snowsports Society, as well as the Surf Society. I even went on a skiing trip last year, during Easter break with KCL! It was very fun, we travelled all the way to France, and not only did I have an amazing time skiing, I met a lot of amazing people and friends; all of us study different subjects and are pursuing different careers.  I’m very glad to have been introduced to such an amazing opportunity and to make these interesting and valuable connections. 

Tell us about a memorable project you’ve worked on 

One of the most exciting projects I’ve worked on was in collaboration with Engineers Without Borders. It was actually the first project I tackled here and it was an amazing introduction to the collaborative and creative process of engineering. My team designed a Rails Bike Transport System for Pu Ngaol, and our concept was selected for the Grand Finale of the EWB competition, which included 150 universities across the UK. It was very rewarding to see our ideas gain recognition on such a large scale. 

Where do you see yourself in the future? 

At the moment, I’m particularly interested in product design and the automation industry, focusing on mechanical and design engineering. Design engineering is such a dynamic and creative field and I love the balance between innovation and practicality. Through my exposure to business partners and real-world projects, I’ve realised how exciting and impactful product design can be.  

Read more student stories from our creative community.