"Everything that is currently hot in research is also used in our teaching"

Sharany Sivasothy is an enthusiastic student of mechanical engineering at RPTU. She recommends that prospective students complete an internship beforehand, as this gives them "their first impressions and insights into the degree program". If you have any questions, you don't need to be afraid to approach the professors and staff - because "they're only human and were students themselves at some point."

Her older brother gave her the idea to study mechanical engineering, says Sharany Sivasothy - not without a certain amount of pride and enthusiasm: "Because he kept telling me about it during his mechanical engineering studies. It all sounded very exciting and interesting." So exciting, in fact, that she completed a student internship at the then TU Kaiserslautern in 2018 - at the Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology. As an intern, she gained her first insights into engineering research: "I programmed for the first time and was also able to gain experience with a 3D printer. And I noticed back then that the university in Kaiserslautern is very informal. You don't get lost. You can ask questions at any time." For the former student, the internship was a complete success - "then of course it was obvious that I would also go into mechanical engineering."

In tune with the times: current research issues are already addressed during studies

A few years later, the Saarland native moved to Kaiserslautern to study herself. She is now in her sixth semester - completing the degree program that is still being phased out. "What I like most about studying mechanical engineering is the variety," 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 used in our teaching." What would that be, for example? "Additive manufacturing" - also commonly referred to as 3D printing. In other words, manufacturing processes that differ from conventional production processes - "and are becoming increasingly important for industry". The special feature: In additive manufacturing, a workpiece is created by applying material layer by layer. Even complex structures can be created relatively easily in this way.

Her tip: be structured and stress-resistant

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

Her studies focus on the field of production technology. "Put simply, the courses are about how production can be improved. Also in terms of sustainability, for example." These are questions that have their finger on the pulse of the times, especially in this country, "because a lot is produced in Germany."

The content of the diploma degree program, which is being phased out, has now been transferred to the Bachelor's and Master's degree programs in the "Mechanical and Process Engineering" department. From the fifth semester onwards, Bachelor's students can choose their own specialization - they can choose from product development, automotive engineering, materials science and materials engineering, production engineering, computational engineering, applied computer science, mechatronics and automation technology. In the Master's degree, the areas can be further deepened.

Working on research and development as a student assistant

Sharany Sivasothy does not yet know what the topic of her thesis will be. "There are still exams and a 16-week internship to do beforehand." Either way: As a student assistant, she is expanding the theoretical knowledge she has acquired so far during her studies with plenty of practical know-how: "I am a student assistant at the Chair of Machine Elements, Gears and Tribology." She works there for six hours a week: "I work on experimental set-ups and designs. I also research theoretical questions and work on programming and simulations." Student assistant - an experience she can only recommend to anyone: "I'm learning an incredible amount."

She could well imagine a future career in research and development. "The basic principles that I learn during my studies, such as how to approach a problem and how to research it, can be used in many areas. From TÜV test engineer to design engineer in the automotive industry, a lot is possible with our degree. Engineers are needed everywhere." She recommends prospective students to complete an internship beforehand to gain an initial insight into mechanical engineering: "An internship would also be possible at our university, for example, at one of the chairs, that's no problem." And also: "I also recommend talking to people who are studying or have studied mechanical engineering beforehand. This also gives you an initial insight." And you can also look at the examination regulations in advance, for example: "That way you can find out what 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: "I met a lot of people back then who I'm still friends with today." And you need friends during your studies - and not just as study partners. "As a first-year student, you shouldn't be afraid to approach professors and university staff with questions. They're only human. At some point, they were students themselves."

By the way: just like her older brother, Sharany Sivasothy can also imagine doing a doctorate after graduation. "But maybe I'll go straight into industry, we'll see." The possibilities are very diverse. Her brother now has a doctorate - and works as a management consultant.