LING SHU WEN
Renaissance Engineering Programme (Expected Year of Graduation: 2027)
HOW DID YOU COME ACROSS THIS INTERNSHIP AND WHAT MADE YOU CHOOSE THIS INTERNSHIP?
I learned about the internship opportunity at TVS Motor Company through a friend who had applied for the India Ready Talent Programme. Other than fulfilling the requirement for my Professional Attachment (PA), I chose this internship because it offered a rare chance to step out of my comfort zone and immerse myself in a different culture.
I have always been curious about how people’s lifestyles vary across countries, in aspects such as food, language, routines and gestures. Although I initially had some concerns about safety, the company’s well-organised arrangements for accommodation and transport reassured me. I saw this as a meaningful learning opportunity to live independently, experience India firsthand and gain practical experience in mechanical product design, a field I am deeply passionate about.
WHAT WERE YOUR MAIN RESPONSIBILITES AS AN INTERN?
As an intern in the Design Engineering Department at TVS Motor Company, I worked on a project to design an adjustable seat height mechanism for two-wheelers, aimed at improving rider ergonomics and accessibility.
The project progressed through several key stages. It began with background research involving a literature review, benchmarking of existing solutions and mapping customer journeys to identify viable mechanisms. Once a suitable concept was selected, I collaborated with a colleague to develop the 3D model using CAD software such as Creo and Rhino. During this phase, I actively participated in design discussions and gained valuable insight into engineering standards and practices within large-scale manufacturing.
The proposed design was then validated through Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and prototyped using 3D printing. Based on feedback and test results, further refinements were made to produce a proof of concept for potential integration into future two-wheeler models.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE ABOUT THIS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE?
I truly enjoyed this unique internship experience, as it offered much more than just professional development. Interning overseas allowed me to immerse myself in India’s culture, connect with locals and explore the country during weekend travels.
At TVS Motor Company, I was based in a large industrial compound where I could observe operations ranging from Research and Development to large-scale manufacturing. I gained first-hand insight into how a design concept evolves into a market-ready product and learned about the company’s design philosophy, which enhanced my understanding of engineering design in a large organisation. Outside of work, I had the opportunity to explore India’s diverse landscapes, including mountains and rivers, which made the experience even more memorable.
WHAT WERE SOME CHALLENGES YOU FACED AND HOW DID YOU OVERCOME THEM?
One challenge I faced early on was adapting to cultural differences, particularly around food. I was unfamiliar with the variety of Indian dishes and the customary ways meals were eaten, but I enjoyed trying new foods. Some of the other interns even showed me how to eat certain dishes and suggested combinations that worked well.
Another challenge was the language barrier, especially when interacting with taxi drivers and shop owners. When I was alone, I relied on hand gestures, but I usually travelled with other Singapore interns who spoke the local languages. Even within the company, where most people spoke English, I occasionally struggled with different accents or terminology, which taught me to speak more slowly and use simpler phrases to communicate effectively.
WHAT ARE YOUR KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS INTERNSHIP?
This internship has helped me grown both professionally and personally. It strengthened my understanding of design thinking and provided hands-on experience with CAD software for industrial product design, equipping me for a future in this field.
Embarking on an overseas internship independently pushed me to become more proactive and independent. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone by trying new experiences, engaging with different people and learning from my colleagues. I also learned to take calculated risks, balancing safety with the desire to explore beyond the workplace.
Living and working in India broadened my cultural perspective and helped me appreciate different ways of working and living. At the same time, it gave me a deeper appreciation for what I have in Singapore, including its infrastructure and diverse food options.
HOW DID CAO HELP YOU IN PREPARING FOR YOUR FUTURE WORK?
The CAO LevelUP! Mentorship Programme helped me expand my professional network and gain a deeper understanding of the mechanical engineering landscape and career opportunities in Singapore. In preparing for this internship, CAO also supported me with the onboarding process and assisted in completing the necessary administrative tasks.
SHARE ADVICE WITH YOUR PEERS.
If you are going for an overseas internship, I encourage you to step out and explore! Make the most of every opportunity and be proactive in learning from the people and environment around you. The journey may not always be smooth and there may be moments when things do not go as expected, but try to appreciate the small things along the way.
Internships are not just about securing a future job; what matters more is the process. The skills you acquire, the personal growth you experience and the friendships you build will stay with you long after the internship ends.