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A scholarship of excellence for Inês
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Inès was awarded an excellence scholarship by the Foundation to study for a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engeneering – Aerospace Systems and Control at ISAE-SUPAERO. After 2 years on campus and her diploma in hand, she tells us about her Toulouse experience.
Why did you choose ISAE-SUPAERO?
My motivations were multiple and deeply linked to my professional and personal project. I chose this school because of its international reputation in aerospace engineering and its recognized expertise in the field. The fact that Toulouse is considered the aeronautics capital of the world also influenced my decision, offering direct proximity to industry leaders such as Airbus, whose world headquarters are located here.
My main aim was to specialize in automation and embedded systems, with a training program combining theory and practice. Ranked among the top engineering schools in France, ISAE-SUPAERO offers programs recognized for their academic excellence and focus on innovation. What’s more, the opportunity to interact with experienced professionals, including speakers from prestigious companies such as Airbus and Dassault, represented a unique chance for me to enrich my knowledge and understand the industry’s current challenges.
I was also driven by the desire to study abroad, learn a new language and immerse myself in a different culture. Getting out of my comfort zone was essential for my personal development, and the prospect of getting to know international students in a dynamic city like Toulouse added an enriching cultural dimension to my course.
All in all, joining ISAE-SUPAERO offered me the opportunity to combine high-level training, immersion in a first-rate industrial environment and an international cultural experience, all of which are essential if I am to achieve my professional ambitions in the field of aerospace engineering.
Can you tell us about your studies?
Inês Matias Gregório de Sousa Afonso
In my first year, I followed a generalist curriculum that enabled me to consolidate my fundamental knowledge of aerospace engineering. In the second year, I chose to specialize in automation, taking part in applied courses where I designed autopilots and worked out trajectories for drones, thus reinforcing my practical skills. The teachers were very approachable and available to answer our questions, which I particularly appreciated.
In addition, I had the opportunity to take part in a research project in the ISAE-SUPAERO laboratories, which resulted in the publication of an article that I presented at a conference in England. This experience awakened in me a strong interest in research.
At the same time, I completed an internship at Thalès, my first corporate immersion, which proved to be a valuable opportunity to apply my knowledge in a professional context. This internship enabled me to understand the dynamics of the aerospace industry and to develop project management and teamwork skills.
What do you remember about campus life?
ISAE-SUPAERO is renowned for its dynamic community life, with over a hundred clubs and associations. I joined the swimming club, which gave me the opportunity to meet like-minded students in a relaxed environment. The campus regularly organizes cultural events dedicated to different countries, offering the opportunity to discover different cuisines, dances and traditions. Thanks to these multicultural interactions, not only did I improve my French, but I also acquired notions of Italian and Spanish. This linguistic and cultural immersion broadened my horizons and helped me to develop a better understanding of international perspectives, a valuable asset in the aeronautics field where global collaboration is essential. What’s more, participating in these clubs and events has enabled me to develop organizational and leadership skills. For example, by helping to organize events, I learned how to manage my time effectively, coordinate activities and work collaboratively with other students.
This rich and varied community life has played a crucial role in my personal and professional development, perfectly complementing the academic training I received at ISAE-SUPAERO. It gave me invaluable opportunities to improve my skills, develop lasting friendships and prepare for a career in an international environment.
What did you take away from your stay on a personal level?
Life in Toulouse has been a very enriching experience. In the beginning, I lived in the student residence, which I highly recommend to new students, as it eases their integration and allows them to take full advantage of campus life. It was my first experience of independent living, away from my family, and it helped me become more self-reliant and mature. The friendships made here are precious, and the moments shared will remain engraved in my memory. Successfully completing this Master’s degree has undeniably boosted my self-confidence.
Among my highlights were presenting my research project at a conference in England, visiting the Airbus final assembly line and the Aeroscopia museum, and a flight dynamics course that included an in-flight session on an aircraft. These experiences not only enriched my knowledge, but also fueled my passion for aeronautics.
Has this stay helped you confirm your professional aspirations?
My time at ISAE-SUPAERO has added significant value to my professional career. The advanced technical skills I’ve acquired, particularly in automation, as well as my experience in research and industry, have enabled me to develop solid, versatile expertise. These assets position me well to contribute to innovative projects in the aerospace sector.
My next step is to do a CIFRE thesis in collaboration with Airbus, combining laboratory research and corporate experience. This scheme would enable me to work on projects at the cutting edge of innovation, while strengthening my skills and professional network. I’m convinced that this experience would be an excellent way of achieving my professional goals and making a significant contribution to the aerospace industry.
In short, my experience at ISAE-SUPAERO and my future plans reflect my desire to push back the frontiers of innovation and actively contribute to the evolution of the aerospace sector.
Any final words?
Dear Foundation donors,
I would like to express my deep gratitude for the scholarship you have generously awarded me. Thanks to your support, I was able to join ISAE-SUPAERO and devote myself fully to my studies in aerospace engineering. This opportunity enabled me to take part in rewarding research projects and immerse myself in the dynamic community life on campus.
Your financial support has been instrumental in allowing me to focus on my academic career without the financial worries that could have hindered my progress. Your generosity has also inspired me to strive for excellence and a bright future in the aerospace industry.
I am committed to honoring your trust by actively contributing to the evolution of this field and, in turn, giving back to future students. Your support has had a significant impact on my life, for which I am eternally grateful.