Christopher Sven

Before entering HKUST I knew I had a knack for the application of science, and after spending two years here at HKUST, I know for sure why I chose to be an engineer. To me, being an engineer is to develop the capability of maintaining, building, or even innovating new technologies. I find that special and important because if you look at history, our quality of life has improved or been impacted every time there is a surge of new innovation. Thanks to previous engineers and scientists, they have risen the bar of our current living standard. There are numerous stories, and a quick search will give you inspiring accounts of past innovations made possible by engineers. Who knows what the next innovation is? But I like to refer to the 2005 movie 'robots': "see a need, fill a need”.

For me, I predict that the demand for sustainable energy will only increase. Currently, 80% of the world’s energy is derived from oil, coal and natural gases - none of which are renewable. I, therefore, plan to continue my further studies in the nuclear sector, primarily on thorium molten salt reactors. Even though my major right now is aerospace, I don't regret choosing it and choosing HKUST as my university. As an engineer, you are not defined by what subject you study, but the mindset you develop that allows you to "see a need, fill a need". My experience at HKUST has not only helped me develop into the person I am now, but also helped me understand what I want to do in the future.

I know the first steps into university may be scary, but that’s why you have the ESA buddies to help you out. I was there 2 years ago too!