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Ajay Parmar

BSc Product Design, 2016

Computer Aided Designer, IQ Glass

What made you choose Middlesex University?:

Middlesex University has great facilities and reviews. From a design perspective the course coverage is excellent and the modules cover such an array of topics that opens many doors.

What course did you study and what attracted you to that course?:

Product Design. I studied design technology at school. I studied Product Design at A level. I did quite well and enjoyed thoroughly. I wanted to pursue it further.

What aspects of your course did you enjoy the most?:

I enjoyed being hands on in the workshop. We had some amazing tools at our finger tips such as 3D printers, Computer numerical controlled (CNC) lathes and a water jet machine. This allowed us to bring our sketches to reality.

What is your fondest memory of Middlesex?:

After spending months on my final project not only did I receive a first, but I also received lots of interest regarding it when I exhibited it at the New Designer Show.

What one piece of advice would you give to a prospective student interested in studying at Middlesex?:

It is important to consider all you options. Once you have decided what course you are interested in, research what other students think of the course at that particular university. It just so happened that Product Design worked out very well at Middlesex.

How did your course and time at Middlesex help you to get where you are professionally today?:

Studying Product Design at Middlesex involved doing live projects with real world clients. This gave us a glimpse of real world experience. Also, doing my sandwich placement year gave me a real bonus.

How did you get your foot on the career ladder post university?:

After graduating my Product Design Degree, I was employed by the university and worked as a Graduate Academic Assistant (GAA), teaching both Product Design and Design Engineering. This made me an attractive employee for anyone looking to hire a Computer Aided Design (CAD) technician.

What has been your defining career break of highlight to date?:

My biggest achievement was to teach Solid works at Middlesex University. I knew I was doing a good job as the students always turned up on time and were eager to start the lesson. One time, a student brought me chocolates as a thank you for the extra help I offered. Recently, another student messaged me on LinkedIn stating that my profile was inspirational and that, despite me being strict, I was a very useful teacher whose methods proved to be successful.

What are the top three career tips you would give to current students and recent graduates?:

There are no three tips which will guarantee success or happiness in life. However if I were to offer advice, always remember your goals, be grateful and polite - it will always go further than you expect and be as time efficient as possible.

What skills have been most valuable in your career so far and how have you developed these?:

My number one skill in my career besides CAD has been my ability to talk. This is not something university taught me but, it did refine it. I think it comes from my Dad. Don’t tell him I said that though!

Are there any tips you can give international students looking to move abroad to study?:

Travelling broadens your horizons, combining that with a degree is an excellent opportunity. I wish I had seized the opportunity to do so when I had it.

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