Vincent Yuan
Our masters students go on to a range of exciting roles in industry and research, often applying their knowledge to global challenges. On graduation day we caught up with Vincent Yuan, the graduate speaker at the ceremony who was sponsored by the Hong Kong government to study on Surrey’s MSc Bridge Engineering.
Course
Bridge Engineering MScGraduation year
2019When did you first become interested in bridges?
Looking at long span bridges as a child, I was amazed not only by the way they look but also the convenience and tangible benefits these bridges bring to people’s lives. That is what inspired me and drove me to become a professional engineer: the idea of delivering infrastructure which is so vital to communities.
What were the best things about your masters course?
Surrey is a centre of excellence in structural engineering, which is why my employer sent me here as part of my overseas training. Bridge engineering, in particular, is a very specialised field. Surrey is one of the few universities in the world offering an MSc in this subject, and the standard of teaching and research is excellent.
I really enjoyed the dissertation which students are required to do during their masters course. Mine focused on modelling a bridge using advanced numerical modelling to understand how the bridge would behave under multiple hazards. It was great to be able to collaborate with academic staff and produce a project that has some real benefit, while also enriching my knowledge of the theory and structural aspects of bridges.
What else did you get up to at Surrey?
I lived in University accommodation at Manor Park, which was wonderful as I was with students from all over the world. It is also very close to Surrey Sports Park which has world class sporting facilities; I got involved in badminton and football, and also used to jog around the Sports Park.
Has your masters course helped you in your current role?
Yes, I’m continuing to work for the Hong Kong government and my role now is managing Hong Kong’s long span bridges, so I’m definitely applying the skills I gained at Surrey.
Discover our courses in civil and environmental engineering, including our MSc Bridge Engineering.
