Letter of Intent.

Pratik Soni.

I have been in awe of Megafactories on the National Geographic Channel every time I see it. Seeing the manner in which the cars are built and the various processes involved instilled a desire in me to be part of the whole process. This coupled with a natural flair for science and mathematics motivated me to take up engineering in college. The reason I took up mechanical engineering was that I had a passion for cars, planes, trains, trucks and all devices for transportation. Studying subjects like manufacturing processes, transmission system design, theory of machines and mechanisms gave me a clearer view of what I wanted to do. I seek to design, build and engineer cars and trucks. During my undergraduate course I had the opportunity to gain knowledge about basic machining processes like facing, turning, drilling by hands-on experience in a college workshop. During my final year, I completed a project in which I designed and fabricated a Piston type paste filling machine. During this phase I got the opportunity to gain a lot of insight into the processes of casting and welding. I have also worked with software like AutoCad and Pro-E. I took up automobile engineering as my final year elective so that I could get initiated into the field. But what I realized was that it provided a very limited view of what I wanted to study. I got to know the basic functioning of the various mechanical systems of the automobile like the I.C. engine, clutches, brakes, transmission, powertrain and differentials. Mechanical engineering by itself has a vast number of subjects and if I wanted an in depth understanding of a particular subject, Masters became an obvious necessity. A Masters degree would allow me to delve deeper into individual aspects of automotive engineering by studying them in greater detail and also to gain practical experience by way of relevant internships. Hence, I took up the decision to pursue an NAME OF DEGREE in automobile engineering. I have been a sincere and consistent student throughout my academic career as is evident from my academic records. Apart from that I have an interest in trekking and volleyball. I also love reading fiction and playing computer games in my spare time. My interest in cars is best evident through my participation in various events involving building a miniature radio controlled car. During my third year of undergraduate studies, I made a presentation on the Bose suspension system, one of the most innovative suspension systems of the current times. I have been passionate about cars since I was a child. Germany is the Mecca of mechanical engineering. It is the birthplace of car companies like Mercedes, BMW, Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, which represent the pinnacle of development in the automotive industry. I keep reading a lot of car magazines as well like Autocar, Overdrive, Car and Bike. Apart from that I often surf the internet for updates on the auto industry. I also like to surf websites like carbibles.com which provide a lot of technical information on cars. I have worked for a year as a graduate engineer trainee with Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltd. where I had an exposure to various departments like marketing, production, engineering design and quality control. I have had a hands-on experience on the shop-floor for the manufacture of journal bearings. I also got an

orientation to planning of manufacturing activities in a large scale industry. Working in a professional environment has honed my communication skills as well. An MS in automotive engineering from a reputed institute like yours would help me further my passion for cars and prepare me for my next goal which is a Ph.D in Automotive engineering. I intend to maintain a consistent record as in the past years in the NAME OF DEGREE degree as well. My experiences in a developing country with its own rich cultural traditions and practices should enable me to contribute productively to the classrooms and student community. I seek an opportunity to work in the stimulating environment at PLACE OF DEGREE. Further, I wish to bolster research initiatives in my hometown, India on returning, having completed my degree and gained some practical work experience. Armed with my new knowledge I believe I would be able to make a difference here. I conclude that the NAME OF UNIVERSITY affords to me, the right environment to cultivate and hone my skills as a well-rounded automotive engineer.