Toria

What made you choose to study aviation with Surrey?

My fascination with aviation began with the simple sight of aircraft in motion, the sheer disbelief that an object so large can ascend into the sky and fly people to another country, and connect the world, ignited my passion. I became dedicated to pursuing a career surrounded by aviation, and came across the Air Transport Management (ATM) masters course Surrey provides. 

The modules gave a comprehensive overview of all functions relating to the industry, and I knew this was the best first step to fulfil my passion. I had also completed my undergraduate degree in Business Management at the University of Surrey and absolutely loved my experience, from the incredible lecturers to the beautiful campus throughout all  seasons of the year.

How have the academics or staff supported your learning? Any moments that stand out?

The lecturers and course leaders have always been available to support with content, whilst providing real life, industry experiences to add a great sense of realism to the topic.

Have you had opportunities to connect with industry, go on site visits, attend events, or meet guest speakers?

Each module has involved multiple incredible opportunities to connect with renowned thought-leaders in the aviation industry, from global airlines, airports and aviation sustainability groups. Each guest speaker has provided valuable insights to the industry at present, whilst giving a detailed account of their career journey to inspire our next steps. They have all been so open in becoming part of our network, offering advice in shaping our career paths, and seeing how passionate they still are by aviation, brings a huge amount of confidence approaching the industry.

What is the aviation community like?

The aviation community is truly built on passion, connection and collaboration. The ability for an aircraft and its motion to enlighten a feeling of pure calm and fascination, one that many struggle to find the words to describe the feeling of, underpins the true passion aviation creates. Connecting the world is the fundamental role of aviation, where people, countries and cultures can come together, learn and gain new perspectives. The aviation community strongly aligns with this, and is able to bring together strong teams of people, all over the world sharing this same unique passion.

How has the course helped you grow your skills or confidence in aviation?

Before starting the ATM course, I was unsure where to start my aviation career, I didn't have full confidence in following my passion as a career or know my “why” for wanting to be part of this industry. Having met the incredible lecturers with huge amounts of industry experience still showing the pure joy and excitement they do talking about aviation immensely boosted my confidence to fulfil every goal I have. Being surrounded by likeminded fellow students all sharing the same passion, I became 110-per cent sure I had made the right decision.

One main pledge I am taking away from my experience, is to encourage as many people as possible to follow the dreams and inspirations they have, to take the opportunities that come your way and trust in your abilities to pursue those dreams.

I managed to work out my “why”, the destinations I wanted to achieve in aviation and, with that, I know I can go in with full dedication in choosing and pursuing my next steps, with a humungous thanks to my amazing lecturers and this MSc.

What are your plans after finishing the course - and how has Surrey helped shape them?

Before starting the MSc, I had aspirations become a commercial pilot, and whilst this is still the case, the MSc has given me the opportunity to gain an understanding of all the functions that enable the aviation industry to operate, to take on other roles alongside. Having gained valuable insights into aviation sustainability, I now strongly aspire to contributing to this, to enable a more sustainable future for flying.

What would you say to someone considering studying aviation here?

With dedication, you will become a master in aviation and enjoy every minute of it!

It is okay to have discovered your passion later, it doesn't have to be something you have always loved or a dream you have always had, just having a passion is enough, you can form your path from here.

Remember everyone is on their own journey, with different time frames, it is never too late to follow your true passion, it can only take you in the right direction.

Don't underestimate how relatable your experiences can be for this industry, any role, any life experience, you will find a way to apply this!

Do it, Do it, DO IT!