Salim "Slim" Ramjean

Salim "Slim" Ramjean from Mauritius
ISC Course:	Engineering, Science and Mathematics International Foundation Year
Studying:	BEng Electronic Engineering at the University of Surrey
Currently doing an electronics placement year with Motorola

"I chose to study at the University of Surrey because it had the second highest ranking for my course in the UK. I also really love the greenery of the university which is like a large park. I also lived very close by, so it was convenient to walk every morning." 

The ISC
"When I was at the ISC I found the staff to be very friendly and welcoming. As soon as I joined, I was probably like the majority of others who hardly knew anyone and felt very nervous. The teaching methods encouraged me to interact with everyone in the class and gave me a chance to speak my mind. It felt more like a big family rather than just a study centre.

In my foundation year, I joined the Jiu-Jitsu martial arts club. It was indeed very exciting and I got to make plenty of new friends and go to national events outside Guildford to compete against the rest of the UK for championships. Furthermore, I also went on and did Japanese Level 1 and 2, which was another major achievement especially after scoring among the top three in my class."

The University
"In the university itself there is a very large library which provides all the materials required to assist you with making your academic life easier. From books to ebooks (online materials) and private journals – the university gives you special access to all of these for free. In terms of support, the university also provides healthcare, personal and financial advice and help when required. During night time, for entertainment there is Rubix which is the university nightclub which holds all kind of events and invites famous artists to come and perform – all organised by the student union.

My favourite moments of being a University of Surrey student are being elected Student Rep for 2 years in a row and being nominated as Best Student Rep of the Year, making loads of friends from all over the world, learning the Japanese language as an extra uni activity, building electronic prototypes of a metal detector, electronic doorbell, FM digital radio as well as going for a professional industrial placement year with Motorola Solutions. But above all, enjoying and making most of the student life at the university."

My Placement Year
"I am currently doing a placement year to gain work experience to complement my degree. My department was very supportive as well as the careers office in terms of providing useful interview hints, preparation questions and helpful information.

My placement is providing me with the skills and especially the work experience which employers mostly look for in fresh graduates. I have definitely gained a lot of knowledge so far and will continue to challenge myself further. This opportunity also plays a major role in preparing me for my final year project and choice of modules."

After My Degree
"Once I have completed my degree I hope to perhaps complete a Masters degree, or probably start working, if by chance the company I’m currently on placement with offers me a permanent role once I finish my degree."

For Future Students
"I would advise future students to make sure they join plenty of societies and language clubs (especially in your first year when you have more free time and lectures are easier). This way you will enjoy the university life immediately instead of only focusing on the academic side. I’d also recommend doing a placement year as it will give you a whole new perspective of working full time and help you to gain the experience employees are looking for."