Jacek Pawlak dreams of decarbonising the hydrogen sector

Why did you pick the Hydrogen and Electric Systems Master's Programme?

My interest in hydrogen in electric systems began already in high school: at that time, my primary interest was in hydrogen vehicles. This led me to pursue a bachelor's degree in electromobility at Wrocław University of Science and Technology in Poland.

During my studies I learned about more uses for hydrogen, as well as the European Hydrogen Strategy. Especially the Finnish strategy caught my attention, which lead me to research master's programmes in this field. That is how I stumbled upon the Hydrogen and Electric Systems programme at Aalto – and after some quick research, I was sure it was where I wanted to study. And here I am, starting my second year of studies.

What has been the best part about studying at Aalto?

The best thing about studying at Aalto is the freedom you get during your studies. The ability to freely plan your schedule combined with a significant amount of electable course credits allowed me to shape and plan my studies according to my needs and pace.  

Most importantly, the studies feel rewarding for me, as I have the freedom to study what I actually want. Compared to my bachelor’s studies, here I get significantly more autonomy – which also naturally requires more self-discipline.

The studies encourage creative thinking and different ways of problem-solving, while the campus provides spaces and environment for collective work and brainstorming.

What is everyday student life at Aalto like?

The student life at Aalto is unlike anything else I have ever experienced. Since the very start of my studies, I was amazed by the number of different organisations as well as events happening on campus. The Otaniemi campus is full of history and student traditions which have really made me want to be part of it all.

The greatest perk of Aalto is the fact that students not only study, but many also live on campus. This creates a vibrant place full of great people and ideas. On top of that, the campus provides spaces for pursuing such projects and ideas.  For me, this creates a great balance, as campus becomes a place not only associated with courses and exams.  

How have your studies prepared you for your future career?

In the future, I would like a career in decarbonising the existing hydrogen sector, as well as using hydrogen in new industries. My studies, projects and career events have shown me both existing and planned green hydrogen projects in Finland, as well as new, varied uses of hydrogen.

Who would you recommend this field to?

Certainly, I would recommend this programme to anyone interested in the transition to green hydrogen. But not only that: I think this field can also be interesting for people generally interested in energy transition, who may not have even thought of hydrogen in this context.