Episode 4 - Placement Year Abroad

In this episode of Thrive, we meet Sekandar Matharu. He's an Acoustical and Audio Engineering student at the University, who shares his transformative experience of completing a placement year in Germany. Sekandar talks about his work on audio projects in the car industry. He also shares his experience of moving to a new country.

He explains how trying new things helped him grow at work, in his studies, and in his personal life. He also talks about his ADHD diagnosis. He explains how it affected university life and his productivity.

Whether you're considering a placement year, thinking about studying abroad, or just curious about how to make the most of university life, this episode is packed with honest reflections and practical advice.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What it’s like to do a placement year abroad

• The real-world benefits of applying academic theory in industry

• How to adapt to a new culture, language, and working environment

• Tips for managing finances during a paid placement year

• How to build a social life and overcome loneliness abroad

• Why taking a gap year can help you find clarity and direction

• How to build confidence and make friends through shared interests

• The impact of an ADHD diagnosis on university life and productivity