An optional elective I was glad to take was a semester-long finite element analysis class. We began the course learning how to solve simpler structural statics problems using the direct finite element method by hand, and other theoretical themes like stiffness matrices, weighted residuals, and shape functions. Alongside the course content, we completed weekly labs analyzing different systems using COMSOL (FEA software), including bike frames, an autoignition cylinder, and truss bridges. For our final project, we visited a local playground and selected a piece of equipment to study. I chose to examine the stresses and strains within a monkey bar-type ring under a few different loading conditions. This was a useful exercise as it was a thorough examination of the system, utilizing convergence studies and mesh refinement to come to a reliable solution. My findings are detailed in the attached report.