Naitik has recently finished his MSc in the Department of Materials. Here, he explains how this has set him up for his future career, as well as the vital experience he's gained at Loughborough. 

"Loughborough University’s materials department has very good setup for materials synthesis, processing and characterisations which is supported by astute professors of different domains and staff. The department not only gets involved in different events related to material fraternity but also is well connected with industry and contribute with their research and live projects. Also, the materials department is ranked second in the UK along with best overall student experience.

The available setup, literature and course content makes students think wider and deeper into different domains across the class of materials. You can delve deeper into the specifics of the particular class and aspect of the materials research based on your interest and need.

Underlying key principles and different aspects of various classes of materials for their performance, durability and sustainable development were well covered in the course content. Also for further understanding and to excel in specific aspect of any particular topics related to materials, a methodical approach to study has unravelled as the course progressed.

My career ambitions are to excel in the area of materials research, selection, behaviour characterisations and failure investigation across the class of materials. This degree has helped me with my career goals by covering polymers, ceramics, metals and composite materials in depth.

I am involved with development of material chemistry for self-healing, electrically actuatable, with improved damping, energy conserving and storing capable elastomer material.

Loughborough as widened my horizons to multiple folds. The campus is filled with different aspects of life in terms of both the setup and people which leaves you with enriched experiences making you learn and cherish the memories for lifetime.

It is difficult to mention specific achievements since I've been at university since there are numerous instances including listening to different expert guest lecturers, interacting with people from different global cultures, playing different sports, and participating in different events with different societies. 

The most important advice I would like to give to anyone considering this programme would be to utilise the time more effectively since the duration of one year passes very fast. Ask more questions to both yourself and the professors to understand the core materials principles."