The Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) Alumni Committee organised its final sharing session of 2024, featuring Mr. Pehlvin Bala Jothy, an alumnus of FET who currently serves as a Technical Account Manager at Western Comstor. Titled “The Plain Truth,” the session aimed to provide invaluable insights for students pursuing careers in the engineering field. Mr. Pehlvin’s academic journey began with a Diploma in Telecommunications at MMU. He later pursued a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons.) in Electronics, majoring in Telecommunications, and completed his master’s degree in engineering science in 2020.
During the session, Mr. Pehlvin discussed the vital connection between education and career development, emphasising that education is not limited to exams but serves as a gateway to countless opportunities. Sharing his personal academic struggles, he inspired attendees to build resilience when facing challenges. He highlighted the importance of skill development and understanding in education over mere memorization. Encouraging students to reflect on their academic goals, he stressed the value of seeking guidance from lecturers and acquiring additional certifications and practical experiences to enhance employability.
He also addressed the challenges students face when transitioning to the professional world, urging them to understand their worth in a competitive job market and adapt to the differences between academic and corporate environments. Drawing from his own career journey, which transitioned from network engineering to data science, Mr. Pehlvin offered practical advice on interview preparation, emphasizing the importance of articulating unique qualities and understanding job requirements.
In conclusion, Mr. Pehlvin motivated students to balance their academic responsibilities with enjoyment, reinforcing the idea that dedication to education is essential for future success. He also highlighted the significance of surrounding oneself with the right friends and mentors to build a solid foundation for personal and professional growth.
