Final-year student Thanya Kakulthotuwage-Don has a fascinating background. She is from Italy, though her family is originally from Sri Lanka, and she speaks three languages.
She was attracted to the University of Greenwich to study a BEng Engineering Management because of the support offered to international students.
"I knew that the University of Greenwich was the right choice because of its reputation and what students said about it," she says. "It's a university open to everyone and very helpful to international students."
Though a long way from Italy, she has fallen in love with the Medway Campus in Kent, where she is based.
"It's a very calm and peaceful area," she says. "It is perfect for studying, with one of the best (and longest) libraries in Europe - the Drill Hall.
"University life has been very exciting these last two years, full of different activities. I think the best part is that you get to know a lot of people from different countries and backgrounds, even when you’re doing the laundry!"
Learning by doing
The Engineering Management degree has allowed Thanya to discover how engineering principles can be used to solve the problems of companies and industries.
She particularly enjoys the opportunity to put her learning into practice.
"We work on real design projects, where I am able to test my teamwork and leadership abilities and gain experience in project management," she explains.
"We get to test our knowledge directly by analysing companies’ financial and strategic plans.
"What I enjoy most is that I am getting ready for a future job by applying the knowledge I gain," she adds. "This course suits me perfectly."
Making a difference in emerging countries
Engineering management offers a wide range of career options.
It creates skilled project managers and production managers that can work in the engineering sectors, in business environments, or at multiple points across the relationship.
"The career choice is really broad and open, as you become an integral link between technicians and clients," Thanya reflects.
"We bridge the gap between engineers and managers to enable them to work positively together."
Her sights are now firmly set on the developing world, where she hopes to use her skills to make a positive difference.
"My dream is to become a project manager and make a difference in emerging countries such as Sri Lanka, where my family is originally from," she says.
"I would like to work in a company that will make a difference to society, or at least is trying to help countries that are in difficulty but have something to offer.
"Engineering management can make a change in the world and impact people’s lives."
