A Global Perspective: My Cranfield experience in air transport management

Hello, I’m Sudheshna Satya Prakash, an Indian student studying an MSc in Air Transport Management. After meeting Dame Karen Holford, the Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield in India, my family and I felt reassured this was the place for me to develop my personal and professional skillset. Here I share my love for aviation and my student journey at Cranfield so far.

My journey into aviation

As an Indian national with a lifelong fascination for aviation, I chose to pursue an MSc in Air Transport Management at Cranfield University. My journey began at the tender age of eight when I visited Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru for the first time with my family and was captivated by the gigantic air traffic control tower. It was a tall tower that had circulating lights at the top and I was curious to know what it was and so I asked my father, who explained that it is like a lighthouse for airplanes, and it’s called an air traffic control tower or an ATC tower.

From that moment on, I knew I wanted to be part of this exhilarating world. I was obsessed with it and started researching into it. I knew learning about airplanes and spaceships was where my passion lied and what I wanted to make my career in.

Choosing Cranfield

Cranfield’s reputation for excellence in aviation programmes and its unique features made it the perfect choice for me. The university’s own runway offered a hands-on learning experience, and the focus on postgraduate studies created a mature and dedicated learning environment. Additionally, the peaceful setting of Cranfield provided the ideal atmosphere for concentration and academic pursuits.

Discovering air transport management

My journey to discover the Air Transport Management MSc course was a happy accident. While doing my research, I stumbled upon the course description and immediately knew it was the perfect fit for my interests and skills. The combination of aviation and engineering was exactly what I was looking for.

One of the most memorable experiences of my time at Cranfield was visiting the airport facilities on the second day of induction. We toured the hangar, the digital air traffic control centre, and the airport fire station. The highlight was visiting the National Flying Laboratory Centre (NFLC), where I gained valuable insights into the world of aviation.

Adjusting to campus life

My initial weeks on campus were a mix of excitement and adjustment. I was eager to explore my new surroundings but also missed my home and family in India. However, as I became immersed in my studies, I quickly found my footing and began to settle in. I had the pleasure of meeting Karen, our Vice-Chancellor, again at the Welcome Event during Welcome Week. It was great to speak to her again and I couldn’t believe how quickly time had passed since our first meeting in India, leading to this moment of starting my studies at Cranfield.

Staying with family

My experience in the UK has been incredibly positive. My aunt and uncle took me on a tour of London, and I spent the first two weeks staying with them in Northampton, which provided a sense of comfort and familiarity, making me feel right at home.

Making friends

I’ve also made many friends through the Cranfield South Asia team’s meet-and-greet events. We’ve become a close-knit group, providing support and companionship during my time away from home.

Future aspirations

Upon completing my masters, I aspire to work as an air traffic controller. I believe this role offers a dynamic and challenging career path within the aviation industry.

Advice for future students: seize the adventure

If you’re passionate about aviation and considering studying in the UK, I highly recommend Cranfield University. It’s a fantastic opportunity to gain knowledge, skills, and experiences in a world-class institution. Don’t hesitate to step out of your comfort zone and seize this exciting adventure.