Just a few years later, he is graduating with not only with a degree, but having developed an award-winning prototype of a wearable temperature-monitoring system.
The monitoring system has been recognised for its potential real-world application as well as securing Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) funding for further development.
Rafail said: "The Foundation Year gave me the chance to study at a university like Southampton despite coming from a different education system. It gave me the technical foundation, and confidence I needed as well as the space to adjust to a new country.
“By the time I progressed into Year 1, I felt genuinely prepared and I am thankful to that for everything I've been able to achieve since."
Settling into student life
For Rafail, the Foundation Year allowed him to build the skills and confidence needed before progressing on to a full degree.
“The course was based around hands-on learning, laboratory work and multidisciplinary projects, allowing me to develop both technical knowledge and problem-solving skills while exploring different areas of engineering,” he said.
From research lab to real-world impact
The highlights of Rafail’s degree came during his third-year project and his integrated master’s group design project.
For his third-year project he developed a wearable temperature-monitoring measurement system based on a research-grade flexible thermoelectric generator (f-TEG).
Working alongside PhD researchers, he carried out experimental testing before designing and building a prototype of a fully integrated wearable glove.
The project was so successful that it provided proof-of-principle results that led directly to securing EPSRC Strategic Theme PhD funding. The technology is now supporting the development of a medical respiration-monitoring mask in collaboration with an NHS anaesthetist.
In recognition of the project’s potential real-world applications, Rafail was awarded the Eddy Herman Memorial Prize for Impact Potential.
For his integrated master’s group design project, Rafail was project manager leading the team in developing a multidisciplinary robot focused on creating an under-canopy forest monitoring system.
Working in collaboration with robotics company Autodiscovery UK, the team produced a robotic system capable of environmental mapping, localisation and navigation under forest canopy, autonomous data collection and extracting tree metrics for environmental monitoring.
Studying in a supportive environment
Rafail says his experience at Southampton has been shaped by access to modern facilities, supportive staff and an active research environment.
He added: “The academics on my course have played a crucial role in supporting my development throughout my studies. My academic supervisors have provided invaluable guidance during my major projects.”
Life beyond the lab
Outside of his studies, Rafail has made the most of student life at Southampton through sports and working as an Open Day Ambassador.
Looking to the future
After graduating, Rafail hopes to pursue a career in energy consulting where he can apply his electrical engineering background to support the transition towards more sustainable and efficient energy systems.