Meet Our International Engineering Ambassador - Ronak Sharma

Course: Computer Systems Engineering with Year in Industry (MEng)

Nationality: Indian

Hi guys!! I am from Delhi the capital city of India - a country where every great race and religion finds a home. Although being Indian, I was born in the Netherlands but lived there for only an year. I have been living in Delhi for the past 18 years. I began my journey to Sheffield in 2015 and have been loving this journey ever since. I am studying Computer Systems Engineering (don’t confuse it with Computer Science) under the department ACSE (Automatic Controls and Systems Engineering).

Initially, I was a bit confused about which engineering stream to pursue as I have always liked the combination of programming, mechanics and electronics. So, this led me to choose Computer Systems Engineering. This degree has opened up a whole new world by providing me with the opportunity to learn all these topics on a single course. Also, UoS (University of Sheffield) is the only  university in the UK that has a department dedicated to controls and systems engineering. It is also one of the best in the world!

I have been enjoying my course because of the flexibility it provides between theoretical and practical coursework. I have always liked opening things up and gaining hands-on experience. This course has provided various opportunities to do so. The laboratory sessions have allowed me to use and understand the concepts taught in the lectures whilst strengthening my practical skills. Apart from this, I was fortunate enough to receive the India Undergraduate Merit Scholarship by UoS which helped me financially and motivated me to start my journey here.

Having the UK’s best voted Students’ Union provides various opportunities to relax and take a break from academic work. There are over 100 societies and committees that can be joined to overcome your stress when times get tough. I am involved in various societies which I really enjoy and have fun but I am also able to develop various new skills.

Due to its cultural diversity, Sheffield is the second home for many students who come from different international backgrounds. Sheffield has great places to visit such as the Peak District which is on the outskirts of the city and perfect for people who love hiking and trekking. Life in Sheffield is great so you won’t get too homesick.

Finally, the advice I would like to give to you is to do a lot of research when deciding which course to pursue and which University to choose. This decision will help shape your life. From my personal experience, anyone considering doing something similar to my course, I would recommend UoS because of its high academic reputation and the numerous opportunities to participate in a wide variety of extracurricular activities.

Meet our International Engineering Ambassador: Akshit Sood

Name: Akshit Sood

Course: MEng Mechanical Engineering

Nationality: Indian

Can you tell us about you?

I was born and brought up in Delhi, India. I have lived all my life in Delhi before coming to Sheffield. I did my higher education from Ryan international school. I have always been interested in mathematics and represented my school at numerous mathematics Olympiads. My love for machines and design persuaded me to choose mechanical engineering.

Why did you choose University of Sheffield?

I chose University of Sheffield as it is one of the best places to study Mechanical Engineering and holds third position in the UK for mechanical engineering (according to the Guardian Guide 2015). The engineering department of the university is well reputed and known throughout the country for its excellence in education. Moreover, with companies like Boeing, Rolls Royce working closely with the engineering department, studying at the university enhances my future job prospects.

What is the most enjoyable thing studying your subject at the University of Sheffield?

The most exciting part of studying at the University of Sheffield is to see the application of different concepts learned in lectures into real life problems. Numerous labs and practical sessions ensure that we have the true knowledge of everything that is being taught to us. The new diamond building has provided us with top-level equipment which has given us the chance to familiarise and understand the use of the high tech equipment in the industry. 

What’s your opinion on Sheffield as a city?

My first impression of Sheffield was that it is a beautiful city with friendly people. My experience as an international student was such a mesmerizing one that I never felt that I was away from home. I was amazed to see the variety of people from different countries of different backgrounds, working together united in this city. From the nature’s gift of Peak district to the modern city center this city has lots to offer for an international student like me. 

Hobbies:

I always had great interest in cricket and badminton and I love playing them in my free time. Since living in Sheffield has given me a new hobby of cooking, I love trying new recipes and new cuisines. Apart from these I enjoy volunteering for the local organizations in Sheffield. I am a member of fundraising group for the British heart foundation where I help in organizing various fundraising events throughout the year.

What are your plans for future/dreams/goals?

My aim for the next year is to get a placement year in the oil and gas sector. After graduation, I plan to work in the oil and gas industry to gain industrial exposure and commercial awareness.