Jarifa: Studying Aerospace Engineering
Jarifa is a third-year Aerospace Engineering student. She took some time out from her Industrial Placement as an Application Engineer at Cummins Inc. to tell us about her experience at Queen Mary.
Discovering Aerospace Engineering
"My initial interest in engineering came from my fascination with Zaha Hadid's architectural style, that inspired me to create my own isometric drawings using CAD and Google Sketch-Up. The mechanics behind the intricacies of her streamlined designs intrigued me, as they drew parallels to the designs used in planes.
Following this, I began my research into the engineering principles behind aviation. I was inspired by Gunjan Saxena, one of the first female air force pilots of colour. Through watching her biographical film, I learnt about her struggles working within a male-dominated field. This drove me to pursue engineering with hopes of contributing to the mechanical and technological advancements being made."
Studying at Queen Mary
"The Whitehead Aeronautical Laboratory within the School of Engineering and Materials Science has provided me with several opportunities to test various models in the wind tunnels across my modules, something that I have aspired to do for a long time. Every day at university is new; I always look forward to learning new techniques and applying them to everyday tasks proficiently.
What truly makes Queen Mary unique is the range of diversity seen on campus at all times. From my first year, I have engaged with students and staff members from different backgrounds, and I have felt welcomed since the moment I stepped into university.
Career-building workshops during Skills and Employability Week and our very helpful Placements Officer have motivated me to consistently apply for placement opportunities. Being able to take part in extracurricular employability activities, such as the QMentoring programme and the Student Consultancy Project, has enabled me to network with students across the university and gain access to mentors in industry, building up my confidence."
Extra-curricular experiences
"During my time at university, I have taken part in several committees and societies. Being a Course Representative for Aerospace Engineering has given me the chance to build strong relationships and help bridge the gap between students and staff.
I was a member of the Traction Team at Hyperlink during my second year of studies, where I learnt how manage my academics while nurturing my interest in trains. I aided in brainstorming and building a new version of the LIM motor used for the Hyperloop pod, as part of the team. In my third year, I became part of the Structure and Power Team at Queen Mary Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (QMSEDS), working collaboratively to build a CubeSat."
"It has been a privilege to present my research at Parliament."
Through being part of the Queen Mary Centre for Undergraduate Research (QMCUR), I have been able to conduct a research project on the 'Development of Novel Surface Textures to Reduce Aerodynamic Drag'. This project has been showcased on multiple occasions, including at the School's Industrial Liaison Forum, where it won best undergraduate research poster. It was also a privilege to bring my research project to present at the Posters in Parliament 2025 event.