Sumreen Aziz
"Every project I did on placement involved an element of collaboration, and the leadership, communication and teamworking skills I gained have really supported my group project work."
Where was your placement?
I went to PepsiCo in Cupar, Scotland, where I was based on the Quaker Oats site as an Engineering Operations Placement Student.
What was your day-to-day role?
I was always working on at least four projects at the same time, so my day-to-day work really varied. My projects included leading the planning and implementation of a trial to produce products at a higher final goods moisture, conducting an independent study of the entire plant, scoping out the feasibility of replacing the existing gas boiler with an electric boiler, and helping process improvement engineers with unplanned maintenance on the packaging line.
I also completed Kaizen Leader training, successfully leading a Lean Six Sigma project focused on reducing fluctuations in the kiln throughput, and collaborated with other placement students to produce a new product concept for Quaker.
Any other highlights from your time on placement?
I starred in the internal PepsiCo magazine on a ‘This is me’ feature page!
Sumreen outside the Quaker Oats plant.
Inside the plant: working on at least four projects at a time, Sumreen found that no two days were the same.
What was the most important thing you learnt from your placement experience?
Always to show your curiosity confidently: it’s a strength to want to learn and no-one knows everything, so everyone needs to learn.
Was it hard to do a 9-5 job after being a student?
My hours were 8-4 so a bit earlier than I was used to as a student, but living in Scotland meant I saw some amazing sunrises on the drive to work.
Describe your placement in three words.
A fulfilling experience.
Has your placement benefited your studies now you’re back at Surrey?
Every project I did on placement involved an element of collaboration, and the leadership, communication and teamworking skills I gained have really supported my group project work. I was also able to apply my theoretical knowledge gained from University and this has allowed me to develop a stronger understanding and appreciation of engineering principles.
Aside from this, my experience on placement validated my skills and potential so I’ve returned to my studies as a more confident individual.
What are your career plans after graduating?
Based on my placement experience I’ve realised I have a passion for manufacturing-based roles so will be aiming for this field in the future.
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