How I chose Communication Systems

Why did I choose Communication Systems?

First of all, it was Science – with a capital S. Before reaching the end of compulsory schooling, before finishing upper-secondary school and sitting my baccalaureate exams – my desire was to discover more about the world around me. And that drew me towards physics and applied mathematics.

Then one day, I came across a new dimension in science: the interaction between physics, mathematics and computing in engineering.

Engineering is used to tackle the following sorts of problems:
- how to resolve a problem mechanically, logically and as efficiently as possible
- how to capture a body of information, such as a piece of text, a song or photograph, and transmit it in an efficient way,
- how to resolve a problem that keeps getting bigger,
- how to communicate over thousands of kilometers using just a few meters of cable and keeping electronic equipment to a minimum.

This discipline has given rise to such wonderful inventions as the Internet, which I use every day. It’s the combination of solving problems and studying a tool currently used by billions of people that drew me to Communication Systems.

Physics, math and mechanics were of equal interest to me. I was fascinated by the combination of these three fields – I have never completely abandoned them. In fact, during my Bachelor’s degree studies, I was able to study the application of quantum physics to information science. My Master’s degree reflects my multiple interests: I am currently attending an astrophysics course and a number of courses in space engineering – and all this alongside my specialist studies in information security. Who said narrow specialization is inevitable?

My studies aside, I’ve managed to make myself useful as a technician for the student radio station on campus, Fréquence Banane. I’ve had some pretty crazy encounters (including with some people who already had others employed under their orders, or who did Morse code) and I did some rather off-the-wall projects with them (e.g. organizing a festival and putting on a Günther show on campus).

So my studies still leave me with some free time! The tricky thing isn’t so much the amount of work, but remaining motivated. That is the most important factor to consider when choosing this branch of study.

In the end, it is your dreams that drive you forward.