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Mario Abril Sarmiento

Position
From: Colombia
Studying: BEng Mechanical Engineering
I speak
English and Spanish
Studying
BEng Mechanical Engineering
From
Colombia

Hi there! I’m Mario, a second-year Mechanical Engineering student. I’m originally from Colombia but have also lived in the United States, Venezuela, and Peru before settling in the UK for my studies. Throughout my life, I’ve been driven by a passion for learning about new cultures and exploring different perspectives, which has been a truly rewarding part of my journey.

I chose Leeds because it’s one of the top universities for Mechanical Engineering in the UK, consistently ranked in the top 10. The program here offers a fantastic mix of disciplines, including Aerospace, Automotive, and Medical Engineering. This broad exposure has given me a diverse set of skills that will prepare me for a wide range of industries. I’m also part of the Leeds Gryphon Racing Team as a Junior Drivetrain Engineer. Being part of the team has provided me with hands-on experience in real-world engineering projects, from designing to solving mechanical challenges. It’s been an incredible way to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to practical situations, and it’s something I’m truly passionate about.

During my first year, I lived at Montague Burton student residence, which was perfect for me as it’s only a 10-minute walk from campus. It was such a convenient place to live, with perks like a kitchen that included a laundry set—super handy for everyday life! Plus, having a sink in my room made things even easier. I shared the flat with eight British flatmates, which really helped me improve my English. It might sound crowded, but we all got along really well, and it was a fantastic way to practice my communication skills and adapt to a new culture. Now, I live with my coursemates, and we’ve built a great support system, always helping each other with our studies and projects.

One of my favorite things to do in Leeds is exploring the city centre. I love visiting the Corn Exchange, which is full of artisanal shops selling unique furniture pieces, plants, and lamps—perfect for decorating my room and making it feel more like home. The Corn Exchange has a vibrant atmosphere, and you can find amazing items that reflect the creativity of the city. In the city centre, there are also plenty of cozy cafés where I like to grab a coffee and study or relax with friends. The combination of history, modernity, and creativity in Leeds makes the city feel really special to me.

Leeds offers so many opportunities, from engineering projects to vibrant student societies. I even joined salsa and bachata classes, which have helped me stay connected to my roots and meet amazing people from all around the world. It’s a great way to unwind, have fun, and stay in touch with my culture.

If you’re thinking of joining Leeds, I highly recommend getting involved in societies and clubs—it’s the best way to meet people and make the most of your experience here.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! You can email me at Mario-link@leeds.ac.uk or message me on UniBuddy

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