Lucília
Lucília comes from Portugal. Before coming to Sweden, she graduated from her bachelor's programme in Chemical Engineering at Instituto Superior Técnico (IST) in Lisbon. While she spends a lot of time at the library, she also loves exploring new cultures and ways of living through travel. She is thrilled to share her experiences and help you to navigate your student journey at KTH!
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
Although I thoroughly enjoyed studying chemical engineering, I strongly desired to understand chemical phenomena deeply. The Molecular Science and Engineering programme at KTH caught my attention because of its excellent curriculum, which allows me to pursue my specific interests while maintaining a solid foundation in chemistry and engineering. I chose KTH because I wanted a university that encouraged exploration beyond the department, and I have found that here. Moreover, KTH's prime location in Sweden and its vibrant international community were compelling factors that influenced my decision. One other aspect that sets KTH apart is the availability of project-based courses. These courses provide an incredible opportunity to take on self-directed projects, fostering the development of research skills and problem-solving abilities. It is an opportunity to enhance my technical knowledge and sharpen my critical thinking and creativity.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
One of the most valuable aspects of my programme is the opportunity to select elective courses that align with my interests. In particular, I have always strongly desired to delve deeper into physical chemistry, encompassing subjects such as quantum chemistry and polymer science. The courses are very structured, providing a solid foundation in all the key subjects within molecular science. The content of the courses is thoughtfully curated, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the material.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
During my previous studies, I often felt limited in terms of personal choice and exploration within my curriculum. I only had the opportunity to venture beyond my major and explore other fields of interest. However, my experience at KTH has been entirely different. Here, I have the freedom to combine my knowledge from various disciplines and apply it to different areas. There are no limits to what I can explore and achieve, allowing me to shape my educational journey truly. Moreover, one notable aspect of KTH is the higher number of credits assigned to each course. This enables the university to offer comprehensive and well-rounded courses. In contrast to my previous studies, where I would often have to juggle up to four courses simultaneously, at KTH, the programme structure allows me to focus on a maximum of three courses at any given time. This approach ensures that I can devote ample time and attention to each course, fostering a deeper understanding of the material and promoting a more balanced workload.
What do you want to do after graduating?
Upon completing my master’s studies, I aspire to work in the R&D sector of the chemical industry, with a particular focus on systems engineering. I am passionate about dynamic simulation of chemical systems, and I have a strong affinity for mathematics, which has drawn me toward optimization algorithms. My goal is to apply my skills and knowledge in computational science to solve real-world engineering challenges, contribute to innovative solutions, and drive advancements in the field. I am actively exploring opportunities that will allow me to develop in this direction and make a meaningful impact in the industry.
What would you like to say to students considering choosing KTH for master’s studies?
Don't hesitate and take the leap! The application process at KTH is simple and straightforward, and the support team is always available to address any questions or concerns you may have. Here, you can shape your curriculum and explore a wide range of subjects while receiving a world-class education. With KTH's international reputation, studying here opens up numerous opportunities for both local and global careers. From an international student perspective, KTH's International Office goes above and beyond to ensure a smooth transition. They organize informative seminars that cover all the legal details and essential information, easing any worries you may have. Moreover, KTH offers two days of complimentary transportation from the airport for international students, taking away the stress of arranging your own travel. Embrace this incredible opportunity at KTH, where you'll have the autonomy to create your educational path, access top-notch resources, and be part of a globally recognized institution. The support and services provided to international students further enhance the experience, making your arrival and integration seamless.