Azka Jawed

Why did you decide to focus on science at school and at university?

I always enjoyed studying science but when I started my Cambridge O Levels, physics quickly became my favourite subject and as a result, I opted to study all the sciences for my Cambridge International A Levels. My love of physics continued and was the reason I decided to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering at NUST.

How did your Cambridge qualifications help you when you moved to university?

My Cambridge courses, and the Cambridge learning style, gave me a very strong base for my engineering degree. I found that nearly every technical subject in my degree course was easier to comprehend because of my Cambridge studies. Also, I was already used to studying throughout the year, rather than just before an exam, which proved to be another plus point at university. I have to admit that my university classes were very different from those at school so it took me a while to adjust. However, the analytical skills I developed during my Cambridge studies, and the teaching I received at school, really helped me.

How important were extracurricular activities at school and at university?

I didn’t do many extracurricular activities at school, which is actually something I regret, but I made up for this at university. I joined a Formula Student team (Formula Electric Racing – NUST), which was Pakistan’s first team focused on the development of electric racing cars, and became Team Manager. I took part in a number of student societies linked to professional bodies including the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, and was also a campus ambassador for Women Engineers Pakistan. Having to juggle my studies with a demanding extra-curriculars schedule was something I had never done before, but I learnt a lot from it, and it really helped me transition to the job market.

How did you prepare for your career, and what are you doing now?

At university I completed three internships, all within the mechanical engineering sector, with Atlas Honda, Dawlance and TriPack. When I graduated I first worked for Engro before moving to Unilever where I am now working in AM Engineering Planning.

Would you recommend Cambridge qualifications to other students planning to go to university and onto a good career?

I would definitely recommend Cambridge qualifications as they have provided a really strong base for university study and also for work. At university, my fellow undergraduates followed different courses of study at school and we often compared our experiences – and usually came out in favour of the approach adopted by Cambridge. As a result I am very grateful for the Cambridge experience. It expanded my horizons, made me believe in my abilities, and made me realise that no-one should underestimate their power to change lives and communities.