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Simran

Simran comes from India but she was raised in Dubai. Before coming to Sweden, she completed her Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering at BITS Pilani's Dubai campus. In her free time, she enjoys a mix of relaxation and adventure—whether that's being laid-back and reading a book or exploring new places, cities, and nature. Also, she enjoys baking and can never resist a good dessert.

Ask Simran a question

Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?

I chose this course because my previous job inspired me to delve deeper into polymer technology. With a background in chemical engineering and experience working in the R&D department at Beckers Industrial Coatings in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, focusing on coil coatings and protective paint coatings, I realised I lacked knowledge about polymers. This gap in my understanding sparked my interest and motivated me to pursue further studies in this field. 

How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?

Studying at KTH is quite different from my undergraduate experience. Here, we always participate in seminars, interactive lectures, and self-study sessions with home assignments. Group activities are an important element, often involving long/short term projects. In my Bachelor's programme, the focus was mainly on theoretical lectures, with written exams at the end of each semester. At KTH, exams are spaced out at the end of each period, reducing stress by preventing workload from piling up. The exam culture is more relaxed and varied, including campus exams, home exams, project work, and individual reports. Courses are well-paced, providing ample time for self-study and assignments. Additionally, one fascinating aspect is that we are allowed to snack during lectures and exams, which is a completely new experience for me! 

How is student life in Stockholm?

I really enjoy the student life in Stockholm, which is quite different from back home. There is a good balance between study and leisure. Being a student at KTH adds to the fun, as the programme department and student union organise numerous events, including mingling sessions, parties, and various activities. Even on a tight budget, it's possible to enjoy Stockholm. Some must-try experiences are living in corridor accommodations, visiting the many archipelagos, enjoying fika with friends at cute cafes, having picnics in nature under the sun, and going ice skating during the peak of winter. 

Is there any student events/associations that you enjoy and can recommend?

I am a member of the student association Fiberteknologerna, which organizes events to foster relationships between students, teachers, and businesses, and to develop ideas related to the forestry sector. Together with my team, I manage the creation of social media content for our various platforms. This involves interacting with students, interviewing company and institution representatives, and producing engaging material from our planned events and study visits. It's a great way to network and gain industry exposure, which can help in securing a good thesis and a job. 

What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master’s studies?

If you're sure about your course and considering KTH, you're on the correct track! KTH offers many opportunities and excellent support for international students. I recommend reaching out to current students to learn about the education, exam load, job market, visa processes, bank account openings, and the importance of learning Swedish for internships or summer jobs. Studying at KTH will enhance your skills and provide job-ready opportunities through workshops and career fairs. Moving to a new country with diverse cultures can be challenging, but it's a rewarding adventure!