Hasna appreciates the strong connection with industries her programme provides
Hasna is studying the joint master's programme in Environomical Pathways for Sustainable Energy Systems. She is originally from Bandung, Indonesia, and wanted to study at KTH based on its leading position in Europe regarding energy research.
What made you decide to start studying at KTH?
A senior in my previous university, who is also an alumna of KTH, gave me recommendation to go to KTH as he thought it was a good place to study. Then I started to search for information about KTH, and found out that KTH is one of leading European universities in energy researches. Fortunately, the master programme I was applying for (double-degree program within consortium of several universities in Europe) includes KTH as one of partner-universities. It didn't take long time for me to finally decide to study in KTH.
How did you decide which programme to choose?
I decided based on my interest and purpose of studying. As I learned many energy subjects in my bachelor period and I was planning to have a career in energy industry, I chose the programme which offered courses on energy from both scientifically and practical point of views.
What do you see as the greatest aspects of your programme?
Its strong connection with industries, and that this programme covers a wide range of energy topics, like science, the latest technologies, management, and more are great aspects of my programme.
How do studies here at KTH differ in comparison to your previous experience?
Since the academic calendar is divided into several terms with some quizzes and assignments in every term, it requires me to be more independent and consistent in studying. The learning process in KTH also encourages me to do more self-study, and it gives me more opportunity to explore my interests.
What are your impressions of Stockholm and Sweden?
Beautiful! That was the first thing flashing in my mind right when I entered the city. And also I love the people here who are very kind and helpful.
Is there something with life in Stockholm and Sweden that has surprised you?
Things are very expensive here. And that most of the shops and attractions are closed at 5 pm, following office hours as this is different from my home country. In Indonesia shops are usually open until 8 or 9 pm, and even some of them are open for 24 hours.
Do you have a place in the city that you really enjoy and spend time at?
The best thing about the city is that there are so many places to go and enjoy. Having an evening walk and watching sunset in Skeppsholmen is one of my favorites.
Could you describe a regular day as a student at KTH?
Usually I have two classes in a day, each lasts for 2 hours. The rest of the time is for self-study, home assignments, and writing lab reports.
What do you want to do after you have received your degree here at KTH?
I want to start a career in energy industry. My dream job is to be a researcher in energy technology improvement and a sociopreneur, doing social projects in providing clean electricity to rural and remote areas in my country.
Is there any advice you would like to give others that will live in Stockholm and study at KTH in the future?
Find as much information as possible about non-academic things, such as how to find a housing and administration requirements to apply for personal number or bank account. If you receive scholarship for your study, it's better to prepare enough amount of money four your first weeks because the processes for the scholarship to be transferred will take quite a long time.