The sky is the limit, as the saying goes. Not always, as the story of Sebastian Oes shows. He is part of a team of students working on launching a satellite into space. With the knowledge he gained from his computer science studies at the University of St.Gallen, he and countless others could see his dream come true in 2026 – and not just in theory. In a meeting at the School of Computer Science laboratory, the Zurich native reveals how he got there.
What does the University of St.Gallen (HSG) stand for?
The University of St.Gallen offers the opportunity to get involved in a variety of projects that promote career and personal development in addition to my studies.
What makes the Bachelor in Computer Sience at HSG special?
The Bachelor in Computer Science is a close-knit community. I know almost everyone on the programme personally, whether they are students, teaching or administrative staff. I value this, as it fosters collaboration. I also cherish the many different friendships that have developed as a result.
Why would you recommend the programme?
There are many ways to learn, but true understanding comes from exchanging ideas with extraordinary personalities. The Bachelor in Computer Science offers precisely this opportunity: we learn and work side by side with people who inspire with impressive abilities and outstanding projects.
What personal successes have you experienced through your studies?
During the first week of my studies, the so-called StartWeek, I had the opportunity to present my group's case study project to around 1,800 new bachelor's students. It was a rare opportunity to speak to such a large crowd. During my studies, I was repeatedly given the chance to perfect my presentation skills – something one would not necessarily expect from a computer science degree programme.
What insights have you gained for your life?
Through my bachelor’s studies and especially thanks to my peers, who are actively involved in many different activities, I’ve discovered how divers the opportunities are that are availaible to you as a computer science graduate. What impresses me most is how easily one can find common ground across various industries and leverage it to pursue personal ambitions.
How has the programme changed you?
Even prior to starting my studies, I had a strong interest in technology. Throughout my academic journey, I gained a deeper understanding of technical systems and how to leverage them effectively. I also came to appreciate the importance of trial and error. In computer science, persistence and perseverance often lead to discovering the best solutions.
How do you see your future and your next professional steps?
I am currently in the final year of my bachelor’s programme and am considering my next steps. While I have yet to decide whether to pursue further academic studies or gain initial industry experience, one thing is clear: my passion lies in the aerospace industry.
As part of the SAGE mission, which provides dedicated students with hands-on experience in space mission development, I am contributing to the deployment of both innovative technologies and scientific payloads into space via a satellite — a truly exhilarating experience. For the first time ever, we are sending human cells into orbit in a fully automated miniature laboratory to study the effects of microgravity on cell aging.
As a member of the 90-strong interdisciplinary team, I am responsible for developing the Mission Operations Centre, which will control the satellite and process and visualise the data received from space. The satellite is expected to remain in Earth’s orbit for approximately five years, providing new insights into various topics, including the growing human activities and advancements in space exploration. I’m excited to see what discoveries await!