I chose to study the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering and Management MSc programme at Loughborough University to increase my understanding of the cutting-edge manufacturing processes used in the automotive engineering industry, as well as to strengthen my management skills to prepare me for future leadership roles.
The teaching quality at Loughborough University significantly enhanced my learning experience, as the programme effectively applied academic concepts to real-world industry examples. The MSc programme had a strong industry focus and included a research project sponsored by a motorsport company. As a result of this project, I am deeply honoured to have received the award for the Best MSc Project of the Year, a recognition that reflects the dedication and passion that drove me throughout this incredible journey.
Working on my first project in Automotive Engineering has been a truly transformative experience, allowing me to delve into the fascinating world of the Wankel Engine—a true engineering marvel. By applying laser surface texturing, I explored innovative ways to enhance the tribological performance of the side seals, a critical component for improving engine efficiency, reliability and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. This achievement is a testament to the dedication and curiosity that fueled my work, and I am immensely grateful for the support and opportunities provided during my time at the University.
The MSc programme also provided valuable insights into emerging trends that could potentially shape the future of engineering and manufacturing. This combination of practical experience gained in state-of-the-art facilities, alongside the continuous reinforcement of theoretical concepts in a collaborative academic environment, has been invaluable in deepening my understanding and equipping me with the skills necessary to tackle industry challenges. I used the Tribology laboratory to operate my designed bespoke Testing Rig, the Metrology laboratory to measure and inspect the tested samples and the Machining Laboratory to manufacture the components of the Testing Rig.
In addition to the academic support that I received, the Library and Careers teams provided excellent guidance that helped me manage my coursework more effectively and offered valuable advice on future job applications. Their combined expertise made a significant difference in both my academic and professional development.
The transition to a new country and university was a positive experience, largely due to the numerous opportunities to get involved. Joining societies and participating in various activities made the adjustment smoother and helped me integrate into the university community more easily.
During my time at Loughborough, I have been fortunate to experience opportunities that have contributed to both my academic growth and personal development, which have included being a Course Representative and a Student Ambassador. As a Course Representative, I effectively communicated student concerns to academic staff, and I played a key role in enhancing the course for current and future student. In my role as a Student Ambassador, I helped prospective students make informed decisions about accepting their offers by sharing my experiences and highlighting the many benefits of studying at Loughborough University.
As part of my MSc programme, I undertook a 50-hour Micro-Internship at Amphenol Ltd over several weeks to gain valuable engineering experience in a professional setting. During this internship, I conducted research and analysis on the benefits of applying new technologies to established manufacturing processes.
This experience deepened my understanding of design and manufacturing, while also enhancing my prioritisation, communication and report-writing skills, ensuring the report findings were presented in an accurate, clear and concise manner, which helped me to exceed the project's requirements. The most rewarding part of the Micro-Internship was receiving appreciation from the technical team for the findings I presented. Their positive feedback and enthusiasm were incredibly gratifying and reinforced the value of my contributions.
I would recommend the Micro-Internship to other students, as it offers valuable opportunities to engage with the industry, tackle real-world challenges and explore ways to improve existing processes. These experiences provide practical insights and skills that are immensely beneficial for both academic and professional growth.
My advice would be to continuously seek out challenging projects, as they offer the most valuable learning opportunities. Also, make the most of the support available by reaching out to staff members whenever needed because they are there to help and share their expertise and guidance. Loughborough has inspired me to strive for excellence and to continually pursue success because of the University’s supportive environment and its commitment to high standards.