Why ‘Explore Acoustics’?
The scientific background to acoustics is incredibly interesting. It is combination of physics and maths that really helps you understand the world through sound.
Why did you study acoustics?
I initially wanted to do something scientific like physics, but then I got into organising music festivals and stumbled across the acoustic degree at Salford University.
The course is a mashup of sound and science and is the best decision I’ve ever made.
What do you enjoy most about acoustics?
No two days and no two topics in acoustics are the same – you’re always doing something different.
How did you prepare to study acoustical engineering?
I studied physics, maths, electronics and geology at A level, which turned out to be a great combination.
The scientific background prepared me well for the subject, although many people come with musical and maths backgrounds too.
Tell us about a fun job you’ve done in acoustical engineering?
I’ve monitored noise levels at Glasto. The job itself involved me monitoring the sound levels from The Park stage. The local council’s environmental health department set us noise limits for the festival so as to reduce noise pollution and not disturb the locals too much, we have to communicate and work with the sound engineers to make sure each stage does not go over their limits. Sometimes it does involve me having to act like the “Noise Police” and tell the engineer on my stage to turn it down, so I’m not very popular when that happens! The team also help deal with any complaints from residents.
You’ve now finished your degree, what are you doing now?
I’m researching new metamaterials that will help reduce noise from cars and machines as part of a PhD. I also work part-time in the Acoustics Laboratory testing products for companies, for example doing impact isolation tests where we measure how effective carpets are at reducing impact noise like footfall from the floor above.
Summary
One of the best things I’ve learnt about the field of acoustics is that companies are crying out for graduates. There are more jobs available than people.
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Acknowledgements
Thanks to Association of Noise Consultants #ExploreAcoustics campaign