Sumika Labonte

What subjects did you study before applying for study at university?

At school, I was always fascinated by natural sciences – especially mathematics and physics – as well as economics and business-related subjects. To combine these interests, I chose to pursue a degree in Business Administration and Engineering with a focus on Mechanical Engineering. This interdisciplinary program allowed me to study both technical and business-related topics.

During my undergraduate studies, I discovered that I was particularly drawn to the engineering modules. I also realized that technical skills in areas like mechanics or thermodynamics are harder to pick up on the job compared to business topics, which tend to be more accessible later in one's career. This insight led me to pursue a postgraduate degree in Advanced Mechanical Engineering.

This programme has deepened my understanding of technical subjects like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Heat Transfer, and Gas Turbine Engineering – fields that are also relevant to aerospace engineering. At the same time, it includes modules like Project Management that help maintain a connection to the business side. I really value this combination because it broadens my perspective and opens career opportunities in both engineering and more interdisciplinary roles.

How are you funding your studies – did you secure any financial support?

I was fortunate to receive a scholarship that covered my tuition fees and part of my rent for the year. This financial support has made a big difference, as it allowed me to fully focus on my studies without the added stress of managing living expenses.

How are you finding studying in the UK?

Studying in the UK has been quite different from my experience in Germany, where I completed my undergraduate degree. One of the first things I noticed was the requirement for mandatory attendance, especially as an international student on a visa. This was entirely new to me, as attendance is not enforced in Germany.

Another big difference is the structure of the academic year. In the UK, students are expected to complete coursework throughout the semester, some individually and some in groups, which contrasts with the German system where final exams typically account for the entire grade. Additionally, the size of the course was a major change: while I studied with over 1,000 students in Germany, my course in the UK has just 11 students, including myself.

These differences have made my learning experience in the UK much more immersive. The small class size allows for more personalised teaching and direct interaction with professors, while the regular coursework encourages the application of theory to real-world scenarios. Although mandatory attendance might seem strict at first, it really helps with staying on track and reinforcing knowledge steadily.

When it comes to assessments, I find the UK system more balanced. In Germany, exams usually count for 100% of the grade and are often more extensive. In the UK, exams are shorter and combined with coursework, which can lead to better overall results and a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

What does a typical week at university look like for you?

A typical week at university really depends on the stage of the semester. At the beginning, my time is mostly filled with lectures and settling into the course content. As the semester progresses, more time is dedicated to preparing coursework, both individually and in groups, and revising for upcoming exams.

During breaks in the academic calendar, I try to strike a healthy balance between relaxing with family and friends, especially around national holidays, and staying on top of any ongoing assignments.

When exam season arrives, studying becomes the main priority. I usually plan out my days carefully to ensure I have enough time to revise thoroughly, while also making space for activities that help me recharge, like working out or spending time with friends. For me, maintaining a good work-life balance is key to staying focused and motivated throughout the year.

What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

One of my favourite aspects of studying here has been the personalised support available to each student. With only 11 students in my course, professors have the time and capacity to respond to individual needs, and in my experience, the staff at City St George’s have been incredibly supportive and approachable.

In terms of academic content, I am unable to pick just one favourite module as I have really enjoyed the combination of subjects offered. Many of them complement each other, for example, Advanced Heat Transfer, Gas Turbine Engineering, and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) all touch on related principles, but from different angles. It’s been fascinating to explore how the same physical concepts are applied differently depending on the context. That overlap has really helped deepen my understanding and appreciation for the field.

What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?

Beyond deepening my technical knowledge in core engineering subjects, the course has helped me develop valuable practical and professional skills. Through group projects, I gained hands-on experience in project management, including how to structure and allocate tasks, collaborate effectively with others, and meet deadlines. These are skills that are directly transferable to the workplace. These experiences have also helped me better understand the kind of roles I would enjoy in my future career.

Additionally, I have had the opportunity to serve as a Student Representative for my course. This role gave me insight into the organisational and administrative side of university life, and allowed me to represent my peers, communicate their concerns, and work closely with faculty to improve the student experience. It’s been a rewarding way to contribute to the university community while building leadership and communication skills.

What opportunities and experiences has your School offered you so far?

The School of Science & Technology has offered a wide range of opportunities that go beyond the scope of lectures and tutorials. In addition to delivering the course content in great depth, the school regularly hosts social events such as monthly pizza parties where students can meet and connect with peers and professors from across the engineering department in a relaxed setting.

There have also been enriching day trips, including visits to Bletchley Park and the Manufacturing Technology Centre in Coventry. These trips provided great opportunities to bond with other students while exploring both historical and cutting-edge developments in engineering and technology.

One of the most valuable academic opportunities for me has been the chance to shape my master’s dissertation around my own interests. I have long been fascinated by aerospace engineering and space-related technologies, so instead of choosing from the list of preset dissertation topics, I was able to propose my own. Thanks to the kind support of Dr Juan Guzman-Inigo, the programme director of my course, I was able to refine the topic, define relevant research questions, and tailor the project to both my academic goals and personal passion. His guidance throughout the approval process was instrumental, and I am grateful for the flexibility and encouragement I received to pursue what truly excites me.

What advice would you give to someone considering a degree in your subject?

Advanced Mechanical Engineering covers everything from fluid dynamics to heat transfer, to project management, and even robotics, so there is space to discover what truly interests you along the way. I would recommend making the most of group projects, asking questions in lectures, and making use of the support from lecturers. This can help to get deeper understanding makes the journey more immersive.

Another advice would be to take initiative. If you have a particular interest, speak to your lecturers and programme director early on. You might be able to tailor parts of your degree to align more closely with your personal goals.

Last but not least, enjoy the journey and your surroundings. London is a diverse and interesting city that has activities for everyone. With its many world-class museums and theatres, countless cafés, parks and pubs where you can relax with friends. While it is important to aim for good grades, in my opinion, it is equally important to ensure a healthy work-life balance. Take your time to enjoy the city and make memories!