Rodrigo Aladro

Country of origin: Mexico

Systems Engineer, Fortinet

What/who inspired you most at LUMS and why?

I think Juliana Sutanto, the programme director, was very inspiring for me and supportive with me during all my Master’s degree. She was always sensitive to the students’ needs and concerns and she always tried to give her best as a lecturer and as the leader of the programme. Her teaching methodologies are interesting and modern, and she was fair in her grading criteria.

Did you do a project, placement, study abroad? What did this involve and what did you gain?

I did a brief placement at a small company dedicated to Smart Grid technologies in the UK. Although the placement’s duration was somehow brief, I got skills in Python programming, which helped me to boost my profile when I was at the interviews for my current job.

What are your best memories of your time at Lancaster?
Definitely the people I met in my programme and in my flat is one of my favourite memories of my time at Lancaster University. I got campus-based accommodation and it was amazing, because I made amazing friends from all over the world, with whom I shared unforgettable experiences at the university and in many trips we did together. The campus is truly beautiful, with breath-taking places such as the Library and the fields and forests that surround it, and also the city is a typical beautiful British city, full of pubs, nice restaurants, beautiful parks and of course, local people mingling with international students, all of which allowed me to experience how is it to live in the UK.

What are the best things about living in the Lancaster area?

Lancaster area is very beautiful. It is not a big chaotic city like London or Manchester, so it becomes a great getaway for people like me who come from big capital cities. Living in Lancaster is like traveling to a secret dimension hidden in time and space, because you really take a break from your busy life and you can find peace, friendship and amazing adventures. The city is gorgeous, full of green fields, a fascinating cycle path by the riverside that connects the University with the city centre, nice paths for running through the forest, interesting pubs and bars on campus and off campus and finally, it is greatly connected by train with other major cities in the UK.

What impact has your Lancaster experience had on your career?

Amongst many things, my time in Lancaster helped me to know myself better ant to grow a lot personally and professionally. Now I have an amazing job in the cybersecurity industry, and my Lancaster experience was absolutely helpful to achieve it.