“Everything that is currently being researched is also part of our teaching”

Sharany Sivasothy is enthusiastically studying mechanical engineering at RPTU. She recommends that prospective students complete an internship beforehand, because this is how you get “first impressions and insights into the course of study”. She also says not to be afraid to ask the professors and staff if you have any questions – because “they're only human and were students themselves at some point.”

Her older brother gave her the idea of studying mechanical engineering, Sharany Sivasothy explains – not without a certain amount of pride and enthusiasm: “Because during his mechanical engineering studies, he kept telling me about it. It all sounded very exciting and interesting.” So exciting that in 2018 she completed a student internship at what was then the Technical University of Kaiserslautern – at the Chair of Metrology and Sensor Technology. As an intern there, she gained her first insights into engineering research: “I did some programming for the first time and also gained experience with a 3D printer. And I already noticed back then that the university in Kaiserslautern has a very family-like atmosphere. You don't get lost. You can ask questions anytime.” For the then-student, the internship was a complete success – ”then of course it was obvious that I would also go in the direction of mechanical engineering.”

At the cutting edge: current research questions are already taken up during the course of study

A few years later, the Saarland native was drawn to Kaiserslautern to study herself. She is now in her sixth semester, completing the diploma program that is being phased out. “What I particularly like about studying mechanical engineering is the diversity,” reports the now 21-year-old. “You deal with technical and mechanical issues. At the same time, you get a good insight into new and modern technologies. Everything that is currently hot in research is also included in our teaching.” What would that be, for example? “Additive manufacturing” – also commonly referred to as 3D printing. These are manufacturing processes that differ from conventional manufacturing processes – ‘and are becoming increasingly important for industry’. What makes additive manufacturing so special is that a workpiece is created by applying material layer by layer. Even complex structures can be realized relatively easily in this way.

Her tip: be structured and stress-resistant

But back to the mechanical engineering degree program: What does Sharany Sivasothy think the biggest difficulties are? What are the hurdles and challenges? She laughs: “Of course you have to be stress resistant if you study mechanical engineering.” The diversity of the program brings with it a wealth of information. “You have to approach it with a clear head, otherwise it won't work.” She approached each subject step by step. “You have to be structured, and I had to learn that early on too.”

Her studies focused on the field of production technology. ”Put simply, the courses are about how production can be improved. Also in terms of sustainability, for example.“ Questions that are at the cutting edge, especially here in Germany, ‘because a great deal is produced in Germany.”

The contents of the diploma program, which is being phased out, have now been incorporated into the bachelor's and master's programs in the ’Mechanical and Process Engineering” department. From the fifth semester onwards, bachelor students can choose their own specialization – the options being product development, automotive engineering, materials science and materials engineering, production engineering, computational engineering, applied computer science, mechatronics and automation technology. The master's program offers students the opportunity to explore these areas in greater depth.

Working as a student assistant in research and development

Sharany Sivasothy does not yet know what her thesis will be about. “I still have exams and a 16-week internship ahead of me.” Either way, she is expanding the theoretical knowledge she has acquired during her studies with a wealth of practical know-how as a student assistant: “I am a student assistant at the Chair of Machine Elements, Transmissions and Tribology.” She works there for six hours a week: “I work on experimental setups and constructions. I also research theoretical questions and work on programming and simulations.” She can highly recommend the experience of being a student assistant: “I learn an incredible amount from it.”

She could definitely see herself working in research and development in the future. “The basic principles I am learning in my studies, for example how to approach a problem and how to research it, can be applied in many fields. From TÜV test engineers to design engineers in the automotive industry, our degree program opens up many opportunities. Engineers are needed everywhere.” She recommends that prospective students complete an internship in advance to gain initial insights into mechanical engineering: “For example, an internship would also be possible at our university, at one of the chairs, that's not a problem.” And also: “I also recommend talking to people who are studying or have studied mechanical engineering in advance. That's another way to get a first glimpse.” And you can also take a look at the examination regulations in advance: “This is how you find out which subjects and courses are available.”

Don't be afraid to ask questions

She advises first-year students to take part in the introductory weeks at the beginning of their studies: ”That's how I got to know a lot of people back then, and I'm still friends with them today.” And you need friends during your studies – not only as study partners. “As a fresher, you shouldn't be afraid to approach the professors and university staff with questions. They're only human. At some point, they were students themselves.”

Incidentally, just like her big brother, Sharany Sivasothy can imagine doing a doctorate after graduating. “But maybe I'll go straight into industry, we'll see.” The opportunities are very diverse. Her brother has since completed his doctorate and is now working as a management consultant.

Author: Christine Pauli