Weiran
Weiran is from China. Besides Chinese and English, he can also speak Japanese and a little Swedish. He achieved his bachelor's degree in Software Engineering from Dalian University of Technology (DUT), China, in 2020. His hobbies include hiking, travelling and taking photos.
Why did you choose this master's programme at KTH?
There are a lot of stories behind that. Briefly speaking, I joined the Model United Nations Association when I was a sophomore. From then, I began to think about how to realise the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDG) within my primary knowledge.
In selecting the universities for my postgraduate study, I realised KTH is a university paying great attention to the UNSDG. I am convinced that the only thing that keeps me going is that I love what I am doing. Thus, I switch here to chase what I love.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
The most significant difference, from my perspective, is cultural diversity. KTH is the place where various cultures merge. You can easily make friends from different continents, thus providing everybody with a chance to learn about this world better. For example, you can grasp some common greeting expressions in multiple languages, or you are offered an opportunity to learn an authentic foreign dish.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Student life in Stockholm is fantastic! During my first-year study in Stockholm, I am thoroughly amazed by the Nordic styles: home of Nobel Prize, Stockholm Stadshuset, advanced laboratories, heuristic teaching theory, the tremendous underground metro's museum, the charming research atmosphere as well as the beautiful landscapes of the Scandinavian city.
Life in winter is a little bit challenging. Although the temperature is acceptable, the duration of sunlight needs some braveries to tolerate. However, there are plenty of alternatives during the winter vacation. The Aurora in Abisko is super worth expecting. When spring and summer come, Stockholm will gradually become lovely and juicy, during which you can enjoy the fika with friends or the kayak in the lake.
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
My first-year study at KTH is full of surprises. It is my first time studying abroad, and on the flight to Stockholm last August, I didn't know what I would experience in the coming new academic year at KTH, but I knew one thing for sure: my life here would be brilliant.
I couldn't imagine one year ago that I was lucky enough to be awarded the scholarship, exchange opportunity to EPFL and the summer internship at Ericsson. Consequently, the only word that I want to say to KTH is APPRECIATION.
What do you want to do after graduating?
I haven't determined yet. PhD is my goal, but I haven't made my mind about whether I should further my study directly or gap for several years and then apply for a PhD. I am the one whose major is Information and Communication Technologies, which belongs to the engineering community. In my opinion, the most significant difference between engineering and science is that engineering is more practical while science is more theoretical. Therefore, it will show little value if my research cannot innovate or contribute to human beings. Moreover, gapping for some years in the company will help me fully understand how to apply my knowledge into practice. These are the reasons why I am hesitating now.
Currently, I am doing my summer intern at Ericsson, and I will be graduating next year, indicating I still have time to assess the situation and find the optimal answer.