IMO Teachers have really got to be careful what they do (and say) cos some people are easily demotivated.
it's not like it's a stupid idea that'll leave unemployable you with no fallback option... presumably you'll be coming out of uni with a degree in Engineering, Physics or a similar in-demand subject *at worst*... even if you don't land your dream job immediately, you're already in a better place than the average graduates.
As I think someone already mentioned Surrey university has strong ties with the satellite industry and has had them for years (despite not being on the TSR drool list)