Muskan K.
"The best aspect of studying at Surrey is the industry relevance. From day one, I felt connected to real-world applications, particularly through the university’s collaborations with top satellite companies."
Why did you choose to study your course at Surrey?
I was drawn to Surrey because of its unparalleled expertise in satellite communications and the fact that it hosts one of the world’s largest academic research groups in 5G and 6G technologies. The University’s 5G/6G Innovation Centre really stood out to me. It's a hub for ground-breaking research, not only on mobile networks but also on how satellites are becoming integrated into the next generation of communication systems. Being part of a programme that is actively shaping the future of the digital economy was incredibly appealing. The close collaboration with major industry partners like Airbus, SES, and BT/EE meant I would be learning directly from cutting-edge developments, with a clear pathway towards meaningful career opportunities.
What are the best things about Surrey and your course?
The best aspect of studying at Surrey is the industry relevance. From day one, I felt connected to real-world applications, particularly through the university’s collaborations with top satellite companies and the research being done in satellite security and internet over satellite. I also appreciated how hands-on the course is. I wasn’t just learning theory but also participating in advanced projects, such as working on high-throughput satellite design and exploring mega constellations of satellites.
Another great aspect is the course's recognition by the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET), which means it's not just academically rigorous but also professionally valued, giving me a solid start towards becoming a Chartered Engineer.
What are the best things about life here as a postgraduate student?
Life at Surrey as a postgraduate student is a perfect blend of academic stimulation and personal enrichment. One of the things I’ve enjoyed the most is the strong sense of community.
Surrey attracts people from across the globe, so I’ve been able to build an international network of peers and professionals, which has really broadened my perspective. The campus itself is fantastic, offering state-of-the-art facilities like the 5G/6G Innovation Centre, where I could engage with cutting-edge technology and research. Beyond academics, Surrey’s location is ideal—it offers a peaceful environment but is close enough to London for easy access to professional events, networking opportunities, and a bit of city life when needed. The university’s commitment to student well-being and support, including its career services, has also made my time here truly fulfilling.
What are your career plans?
My goal is to build a career within the satellite communications industry, focusing on global satellite networks, 5G/6G satellite integration, and advanced antenna systems. During my time at Surrey, my research involved designing innovative antenna systems for satellite applications, which gave me a strong foundation in RF engineering and antenna design. This experience has prepared me for roles like antenna systems engineer or RF engineer, in addition to positions such as satellite communications engineer or network architect. With Surrey’s strong industry connections, I feel confident about pursuing opportunities with leading companies such as Inmarsat, OFCOM, Airbus, or working on emerging satellite constellations. In the long term, I aim to contribute to the development of satellite technologies that improve global connectivity, especially in underserved regions, leveraging my expertise in antenna systems and satellite communications.
What advice do you have for students thinking of doing this course?
If you’re passionate about satellite communications and want to be at the cutting edge of technology, I highly recommend this course.
Make the most of the university’s resources—the staff are incredibly knowledgeable, and the research environment is second to none. Engage deeply with the 5G/6G Innovation Centre and seize opportunities to collaborate on real-world projects. Don’t just focus on academics, immerse yourself in the industry links Surrey offers. The blend of practical work and theory here will set you up for success in a field that is only going to grow. And finally, stay curious! The field of satellite communications is rapidly evolving, and being part of Surrey’s research community will allow you to be at the forefront of this innovation.
