How would you introduce yourself in one sentence?

My name is Murali Krishna Magesan and I am studying Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the University of Auckland. I was born in Hamilton and did my high schooling in Rotorua. I enjoy spending time outdoors playing sports and when I get the chance, create artwork.

Why did you choose to study electrical engineering?

When I had first come to University my plan was to do Software Engineering. However, I really enjoyed the Electrical Engineering Course in my first year. In addition to this, almost everything nowadays has some dependency on Electrical and/or Computer Systems. So I feel it is worth being involved in this field due to its relevance now and in the future.

In which projects have you been involved in and outside of university?

In University I have been involved in a number of projects. This is due to the nature of the courses I have taken. These projects included developing a smart-fan that could be used inside fridges and the development of a wireless energy monitor which determines the energy and power consumed by household devices.

I’m currently doing my final year project at University. This project involves using machine learning to accurately estimate state of charge in Lithium Ion cells.

My University schedule and the extracurricular activities I’m involved with now take up the majority of my time therefore I haven’t been involved in too many projects outside of University. The challenges that I have faced during these projects include dealing with the unknown and dealing with the project when things are just not working. Lots of these projects made me step into unfamiliar territory which can be intimidating but it’s a great opportunity to apply what you have learnt and make things happen. When sections of the project are not working, it’s a great opportunity to apply perseverance, and nine times out of ten perseverance is what results in success!

How would you like to contribute to the electricity supply industry in the future?

As time progresses new technologies and methodologies in regards to electricity generation, distribution and energy storage emerges. In my project work at University now, I am working with batteries and energy storing elements. My project involves work related to storage of energy and accurately determining how much energy is available. So in the future it is possible I might be involved in work which deals with storage of electrical energy.

What is the most important piece of advice you would give to high school students wanting to start a degree in engineering? And to university students wanting to specialise in power engineering?

Follow your passion and what you are interested in. Money is important but don’t follow a particular path or field just because of money. Make sure you are interested in it!

Time is not money! Your time is your very life! So be wise on how you choose to spend it.

Do not stop learning! Always keep yourself updated, especially in the field of your interest. Because that little bit of extra reading you do in your own time, might be all it takes for you to start the next big revolution in your field.