Meet Mekhola who is studying at University of Sheffield

Mekhola is an UKESF Scholar and is sponsored by Rolls-Royce, a pre-eminent engineering company focused on world-class power and propulsion systems.

What appeals to you about Electronics?

The products of this era are strongly influenced by electronic designs and models. My interest in exploring further aspects of electrical and electronic engineering began with my passion for music when I observed the use of an Arduino for a programmable guitar pedal. In school, I used to look at videos of how sound engineering works using the complex concepts of digital signal processing (not ever really understanding them). I began to explore other applications of electronics and confirmed its incredible effects in my father’s medical profession, which gave me the chance to observe a robotic surgery. Studying at the University of Sheffield has allowed me to dig deeper into my interests within this vast field. The course has allowed me to tailor my strengths and focus on my career goals.

What type of work have you been involved with during your placement?

I have gained a lot of valuable academic, interpersonal and professional skills from my placement at Rolls-Royce. I have been involved in testing circuit blocks. This gives me a great opportunity to use the equipment that is available in the electronics lab to carry out tests that I would not be able to do by myself at university. For example, I have been able to set up and conduct high voltage tests, learn about the risks and, as a result, apply the appropriate safety procedures that are required for it. For my individual placement task, I have been able to learn how to use Cadence to produce the necessary schematics and layout required for my FPGA networking research project. I’ve also been given the opportunity to use and apply the VHDL that I have learned previously. I am very satisfied with my individual project as it includes aspects of both designing and testing, which is exactly what I wanted out of my placement.

What are your interests outside of work?

Outside engineering, I enjoy dancing, painting, music and travelling. This year I have travelled around 21 cities outside the UK. I’ve also made friends at Rolls-Royce who dance so we go to weekly classes together. Having my placement in Birmingham has allowed me to explore a new city, join new clubs and pick up new hobbies. The city also has a great music scene and lots of my favourite bands play gigs in good venues.