International students at DMU given the Rolls Royce treatment

Postgraduate students at De Montfort University Leicester (DMU) had the chance to visit a world-leading engineering company to learn about valuable work placements.

Thanks to #DMUworks - a programme which aims to give students the necessary skills and qualities that employers look for - 28 students from India, Pakistan, Nigeria and Malaysia visited Rolls Royce and learned about careers in the auto, aero and marine industry.

Organised by DMU’s Faculty of Technology, the day started with a workshop on campus to help them better understand the Rolls Royce placement application process.

Upon arrival at the company’s Derby and Hucknall branch the group met with Judyta Dabek, a Polish Computer Science student at DMU, currently on a year-long placement at Rolls Royce.

During an hour-long session, Judyta shared her experiences and answered questions about what the company looks for in an applicant, how she prepared for her interview, what projects she is working on and how she made the transition from student to full-time employee.

She said: “My placement as an Automation Trainee has been an important opportunity for me and I’m really enjoying learning about working in the IT field in an engineering company. 

“I like to help others to grow so sharing my experiences with other DMU students was wonderful. It makes me happy to think that I have somehow helped them to think about applying for a placement here.

Students also enjoyed a tour of the Rolls Royce heritage centre boasting more than 200 engines and showcasing the company’s engineering innovations throughout its long history.

Parimala Ramu, a 28-year-old from India who is studying Engineering Management MSc, was one of the group.

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“I feel very lucky to have had this opportunity, especially as a wheelchair user,” she said.

“It was a very good experience with lots of information about how the company and its placement programme works. I also enjoyed the chance to view some of the most beautiful cars and to learn about the functionality and features of their engines. 

“Coming to DMU from India, I was shy and scared inside, but it’s been like a dream come true. People don’t usually get so many opportunities in such a short time, so I feel very lucky.”

Suria Prakkash Vijayasuria, a 27-year-old from Malaysia studying Energy and Sustainable Development MSc, said: “My highlight was learning about the innovation of the engines and the enthusiasm which makes Rolls Royce a world-leader.

“The visit has helped develop my critical thinking and problem-solving skills and I enjoyed learning how the engine performance is tested before being delivered to the client. 

“I am very interested to gain knowledge and experience through a year-long placement at Rolls Royce. If I get the chance I will definitely give it my best.” 

Durgha Ramji, Placements Co-ordinator in DMU’s Faculty of Technology, said: “For our international students industry visits are extremely important. It's a great chance to build a professional network in the UK which will prove useful both here and back in their home country. 

“The chance for our students to meet and speak to current staff, understand current industry practice and new technologies, as well as experience the company culture, is of immense value. 

“Our placement student Judyta was confident, professional and shared great insights. It was great to see just how much she has developed personally and professionally".