Stefanie Hernandez

What motivated you to pursue studies at university?

The prospect of pursuing a master's degree with a focus on environmental improvement, particularly in facilitating the Net-Zero transition and advancing renewable energy solutions, resonated deeply with my aspirations to contribute meaningfully to society on a global scale.

Moreover, the transition from Latin America to Europe not only symbolized a significant cultural shift but also presented invaluable opportunities for both personal and professional development. It represented for me, an opportunity to change my perspective and amplify my vision.

What subjects did you study before applying for study at university?

I pursued a degree in Electronic Engineering and then entered the workforce, specialising as a commercial specialist and technician focusing on electrical fuses.

The company offered courses that equipped me with foundational knowledge regarding fuse design, assembly techniques, and the criteria for selecting suitable fuses tailored to the requirements of electrical circuits.

Later, I transitioned to a role at the Metro Train System in Mexico City, where I continued to enhance my skill set through additional courses provided by the company. These included training in mechanical operations and maintenance, as well as administrative.

The accumulation of these learning experiences has been important in my professional journey, broadening my perspective and enhancing my effectiveness as an engineer.

Why did you choose City St George's?

I chose City St George's due to its reputation. The Renewable Energy program stood out to me for its emphasis on the administration and management of renewable electrical power systems, a critical aspect that aligned with my career aspirations.

In contrast to other universities, which tended to prioritise technical aspects, City St George's programme offered a balanced approach that appealed to my professional interests. Additionally, the seamless application process played a significant role in my decision-making.

City St George's personalised treatment during the application process was notable, as it contrasted with the experiences reported by applicants to other institutions.

The comprehensive information provided on the university's web portal instilled a sense of confidence and comfort in my decision-making process. Moreover, the prompt and friendly responses to any enquiries further reinforced my positive impression of City St George's.

What does a typical week at university look like for you?

A typical week at university typically begins with my afternoon lectures. In the mornings, I start by waking up, preparing breakfast, and then taking a shower before heading to the gym.

Upon returning, I proceed to prepare my meals while either reviewing previous lectures or commencing work on my course assignments. If there are early team meetings scheduled at the university, I prepare my meals to consume upon arrival.

Occasionally, my teammates and I enjoy coffee and lunch together on campus. Following my afternoon lectures, I return home in the evening, prepare dinner, and retire early to ensure an early start the following day.

On days devoid of lectures, I remain at home to dedicate time to coursework or to unwind and rest. Fridays typically conclude with post-school outings with classmates. Weekends are reserved for household chores and social activities, whether with friends I've made in the UK or those from school.

What has been your favourite module or aspect of your course so far?

I like the comprehensive nature of Renewable Energies, which has multiple areas of specialty, from economic considerations to technical intricacies. Within the technical area, there are numerous branches, including electrical protection, transmission and distribution, forecasting, electrical design, demand, generation, and more.

This course offers a diverse learning experience, allowing individuals to explore various areas and identify their strengths and preferences, thereby guiding their future career paths.

However, If I had to choose which has been my favourite module would be Power Electronics, as all the information given is very detailed and the lecturer has delivered us the information in very good format.

What knowledge and skills has your course helped you develop?

What I found most valuable in this course is the ability to assimilate and integrate multiple concepts simultaneously within the same subject matter.

Furthermore, I gained an appreciation for the significance of teamwork, including identifying and leveraging the diverse skills of team members, as well as fostering effective communication to ensure successful outcomes.

I also appreciated the necessity of personal organization in conducting thorough research and meeting coursework deadlines promptly. Moreover, the breadth of theoretical content covered in the program provides valuable insights into the functioning of the electricity market, thereby honing skills essential for prospective job opportunities.

What opportunities and experiences has your School offered you so far?

I appreciate the practice of inviting industry professionals relevant to the concluded modules. Given the expansive scope of the renewable energy sector, these guest speakers provide invaluable insight into the practical application of theoretical concepts.

Furthermore, the school consistently organizes events, both within and outside of the campus, aimed at expanding one's professional network and offering guidance for post-course endeavours. These initiatives serve to enhance our understanding of potential career pathways upon completion of the program.

There are abundant opportunities for virtual meetings with individuals from diverse countries, which serve to significantly enrich one's professional perspective. These virtual interactions facilitate the exchange of ideas, experiences, and best practices across international borders.

What are your career plans and how has City St George's prepared you for them?

I intend to pursue job opportunities across the UK, leveraging the comprehensive education provided by City St George's in renewable energy. I am confident in my preparedness to navigate diverse roles within this field, thanks to the broad spectrum of knowledge imparted to me.

Additionally, I am open to exploring employment prospects in other European countries or even the USA. Furthermore, I aspire to gain hands-on experience in a specialised branch of renewable energy with the intention of eventually establishing my own business in my home country, Mexico.

I firmly believe that the valuable knowledge and skills acquired at City St George's should be utilised to address the pressing needs within my country's workforce, where professionals with expertise in renewable energy are in high demand.

What advice would you give to someone considering a degree in your subject?

Renewable Energy is a vast field with a significant demand for professionals, owing to its expansive scope and ample growth opportunities. Moreover, contributing to the global Net Zero transition underscores its paramount importance.

Renewable energy is a versatile domain applicable across the globe and exponential expansion in the forthcoming years.

If you possess an interest in renewable energies, enrolling in this course is a prudent decision as it offers comprehensive coverage of both technical and administrative aspects, providing you with a holistic perspective.

You can also learn about policies and regulatory frameworks which are so important to know when getting a job and sometimes this knowledge is not taken into account in other programmes.