Student stories

Emily Baynes is studying for her MSc in Batteries, Fuel Cells and Energy Storage Systems in our Department of Chemical and Process Engineering, after initially doing her undergraduate degree in our Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Here, she tells us about the work she's doing with a community-led solar farm and her ambitions for the future...

Through my placements, I’ve learnt that it’s the little things that matter the most. Competence, professionalism and technical skills are essential, but it’s kindness, a smile, a welcome cup of tea, and a genuine warmth, that patients appreciate and remember.

I can truly say that Surrey has shaped me into the adult that I am today.

For my placement I am going to CityMaaS, a start-up which aims to make travel easier for people with disability needs.

As Unilever is a big company, I knew there would be a structured placement programme and lots of opportunities. In particular, given that I’ll be working with data, the availability and quality of the company’s data was a major concern for me.

The course offers flexibility around the optional modules, so I’ve been able to match to my career interests and aspirations.

I have changed since coming to Surrey, I have developed academically and feel more mature and independent.