Ramanan Mathisuthanan
‘UNSW has provided me with a good grasp of the concepts required for entry into the mining industry, UNSW’s fantastic reputation with industry has also allowed me to find an internship in a competitive job market.”
Meet Ramanan Mathisuthanan, an undergraduate third year student who is pursuing a Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (Mining) at UNSW.
What attracted you to study Mining Engineering?
I was first exposed to the mining industry through a project that I completed in my first year of university, where I had to design a mine from scratch according to sustainable practices. I was intrigued by the opportunities available and switched to a mining major.
What would you say to current high school students looking to study Engineering at UNSW?
UNSW is a world class institution with advanced facilities and experienced lecturers. Studying Engineering at this university would provide you with an opportunity to learn the concepts from both a theoretical and practical perspective. UNSW also has several clubs and societies that would allow you to work on real-world projects, as well as build valuable connections with industry.
How do you think your studies at UNSW will help in your career aspirations?
UNSW has provided me with a good grasp of the concepts required for entry into the mining industry. UNSW’s fantastic reputation with industry has also allowed me to find an internship in a competitive job market.
I also have an interest in space mining and space engineering. I am considering pursuing Postgraduate studies through UNSW in this area, since UNSW is home to the Australian Centre for Space Engineering Research (ACSER).
Can you share something about the mining industry that might interest someone considering studies and a career in this industry?
The mining industry is currently one of the biggest contributors to the Australian economy. In our path towards net zero, the demand for crucial base metals will be high. Currently, the industry is facing a skills shortage, so mining engineers are in high demand and will be for a long time.
What was your pathway into UNSW?
I transferred to UNSW from the University of Wollongong (UOW). I applied through the Universities Admissions Centre (UAC) and used my UOW first year marks. Most of my degree credits from UOW transferred to UNSW.
Is there anything else that you would like to share about the benefits of your UNSW experience?
UNSW students could complete a Vertically Integrated Project (VIP) as part of their degree. VIP programs allow students to apply their knowledge to real-world projects. The project I was involved in allowed me to compete in the Over the Dusty Moon Challenge, an international design competition where I designed a system to transport Lunar Regolith. I had the opportunity to attend the finals of this competition at the Colorado School of Mines, USA, where the UNSW team achieved 3rd Place!