Adel
Adel comes from the United Kingdom. Previously, he studied for a Bachelor in Engineering at Swansea University, UK. He is keen to learn about different cultures and travel, which also led to his decision to study in Sweden.
Why did you choose this master's programme at KTH?
I always planned to study beyond my bachelor's degree from the UK, but what made me choose this programme is the impressive technical background that KTH has as well as the pace of studies. The institute also provides very promising opportunities and valuable networking possibilities, giving you extra flexibility in what you wish to achieve in your future career. Additionally, this programme is very precise in its scope and aligns well with my interests academically in a field that is continually growing in importance.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
The main aspects that make this programme appealing are its flexibility, international diversity, and how interactive it is. In the two years one may spend pursuing this programme, only two courses are mandatory. This means that one has the freedom to make the most out of their degree here in KTH by choosing the courses they are interested in; if you want to learn about more sustainability or delve deeper into something more technical, it is your choice. The courses are also very interactive in the sense that there is always an opportunity to actively apply the skills you are learning with your peers who also come from many different backgrounds at the same time.
What are some of your favourite courses so far?
As a "Top 3" of the courses I have taken so far, I would personally recommend taking the Transport Phenomena course, and the Ideation of a Company course. The Transport Phenomena course, whilst challenging, introduces you to a different perspective when problem-solving as well as computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations.
Courses such as Sustainable Systems and Renewable Fuels Production Processes provide a very solid and realistic basis in understanding the current and future problems and solutions we face with energy and resource consumption.
Finally, Ideation of a Company is a brilliant course if you wish to seek a more flexible and complete degree by helping you network with peers and developing soft skills such as creativity. Bearing in mind the current climate we are in (no pun intended), this programme will allow you to realise the endless opportunities you have as an entrepreneur with the knowledge you will have obtained by the end of your studies.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
The main noticeable differences between the KTH and studies in the UK are the structure and pace of study. As a reference to an alternative in the UK, master's programmes are typically only one year, and the thesis is completed during the summer. Conversely, at KTH, the programme is two years, allowing you more time to reflect and pursue the studies you are interested in. Additionally, at KTH, you are typically only taking two courses on average at any given time during the year, as opposed to needing to juggle six or so courses at the same time. I feel that having fewer courses at a time lets you focus and develop a better understanding of your given courses.
How is student life in Stockholm?
At both KTH and Stockholm as a whole, student life is very lively. The best part would be the fact that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it is a night out at the bars in the city, or the countless number of activities that happen throughout the year thanks to THS, the student union, you will not find yourself with nothing to do. Plus, those are very good ways to make friends, of course!
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
By far, I would say that my choice to come and study at KTH is the best choice I have made. Together with the beautiful city, the lovely student life and great courses taught here, it is very much a university that has it all. Bearing in mind the COVID-19 pandemic, Sweden also accommodated well for students by making them feel as welcomed as possible given the circumstances, whilst giving as many opportunities as responsibly possible so that people may enjoy their stay.