From a remote-controlled car to EEG devices
IET Student Member Rafsan Jamil Pavel’s interest in engineering was sparked at an early age, when receiving a gift of a remote-controlled car. He has pursued his passion for engineering by studying on an IET accredited course at London South Bank University, which has helped him develop both his technical and professional skills.
Now in his third year, he is looking ahead to a career where he can make a meaningful impact in the dynamic landscape of engineering.
The spark for Rafsan Jamil’s engineering journey was ignited when he was gifted a remote-controlled car for a childhood birthday. “The fascination of controlling it triggered my curiosity about how things worked. As I grew up, the marvels of satellites and mobile phones further captivated me, pushing me towards the realm of engineering. Specifically, electrical and electronics engineering became my chosen path, driven by a desire to turn childhood dreams into reality.”
His engineering journey so far is an homage to that first fascination, and he is committed to continuous learning and an innovative approach.
From theoretical knowledge to practical applications
A typical day for him includes lectures, laboratory sessions, and independent studies. He particularly enjoys the practical sessions, explaining “the opportunity to work hands-on, engage in collaborative problem-solving, and take part in real-time projects has allowed me to bridge the gap between theory and practice. The dynamic nature of the engineering field constantly presents new challenges, fostering a continuous learning environment that keeps me engaged and motivated.”
Embracing collaboration
Whilst they don’t come without challenges, Rafsan Jamil also enjoys opportunities for collaboration to develop his communication skills, which he knows will be crucial in his professional career.
In his first year, he collaborated on a project to develop a smart collision-proof car, integrating sensory technologies to enhance the vehicle's safety features. Working together with his fellow students helped him to overcome challenges and implement innovative solutions. “This experience not only honed my teamwork and communication skills but also sparked my interest in the practical applications of engineering.”
His second-year project also offered new learning opportunities and was a highlight of his engineering journey so far. His group worked on the development of Thermoelectric devices aimed at transforming waste heat into energy in a large-scale plant setting. “This project delved into sustainable energy solutions, requiring us to apply principles of thermodynamics and materials science. It was a rewarding experience, contributing to my understanding of environmental considerations within engineering projects. It was immensely gratifying to see our project come to fruition, knowing that our work could potentially contribute to sustainable energy solutions. The experience not only challenged us technically but also reinforced the importance of innovation and collaboration in engineering endeavours.”
Rafsan Jamil is now in his last year of his degree and undertaking a project using all the skills and knowledge he has gained so far, allowing him to explore a keen interest of his: electronics & biomedical engineering. “I am developing an EEG (Electroencephalogram) using op-amps, with an oscilloscope as a display. This project involves understanding the intricacies of neural signals, using electronic components for signal processing, and ultimately creating a functional EEG device.”
Staying up-to-date
Alongside his studies, Rafsan Jamil actively takes part in volunteering and networking opportunities that come his way, helping him to foster connections and stay up to date with the latest industry trends. A recent highlight was an industry expert session delivered by Tony Bates, sharing insights from his experience transitioning from South Bank to Silicon Valley. “Such events not only broaden my perspective but also offer valuable networking opportunities within the industry.”
Being an IET student member has supported him in his studies. He has found the virtual library particularly beneficial, offering a wealth of resources across engineering disciplines. “Membership has not only enriched my academic experience but also connected me with a broader network, facilitating continuous learning and professional growth.”
Looking to the future
Throughout his studies, Rafsan Jamil has embraced any obstacles as learning experiences that will serve him well as he continues his engineering journey. “The dynamic nature of engineering brought unforeseen technical difficulties, demanding quick and creative solutions. Each obstacle has been a valuable learning experience, contributing to my growth as an engineer and fostering resilience and adaptability essential for success in this field.”
After graduating, he is looking ahead to opportunities to actively contribute to innovative projects, applying the skills and insights gained during his studies, and hopes for opportunities to gain practical experience to apply his theoretical knowledge.
During his studies, he has grown both personally and professionally, thanks to his work on diverse projects, his IET membership, and his collaboration with peers. “I've developed resilience, adaptability, and a passion for innovation. As I approach the culmination of my engineering studies, I am excited about applying these skills and knowledge in real-world scenarios, contributing meaningfully to the field.
“Whether through employment or further studies, my overarching objective is to continually learn, evolve, and make a meaningful impact in the dynamic landscape of engineering.”