Ilias
Ilias is from Greece. With an Integrated Master’s in Mechanical and Aeronautics from the University of Patras and an Erasmus exchange at RWTH Aachen University, Ilias thrives on exploring Stockholm’s vibrant life through seaside walks and photography. His passion for travel and experiencing different cultures drove him to study in Sweden, aiming to enhance his knowledge, experience, and hands-on training.
Why did you choose this master's programme at KTH?
I chose the master's programme in Production Engineering and Management at KTH because it perfectly aligns with my career aspirations and interests. Having completed my Integrated master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering to build a solid core knowledge background, I want to dive deeper into production engineering. This master's programme also incorporates essential management aspects, which I developed a passion for through my role as a youth worker and wish to enhance further. Additionally, Stockholm is a beautiful city, and KTH is recognized as the best engineering university in the Nordic countries. The opportunity to experience an extra cold environment, vastly different from my hometown, also appealed to me, as it adds a unique aspect to my international study experience.
How do studies at KTH differ from previous studies?
Studying at KTH differs from my previous experience in Greece primarily due to the academic calendar's structure and the increased involvement of industry in coursework. Unlike the traditional two-semester system in Greece, KTH divides its academic year into periods within each semester, speeding up the pace of studies. Moreover, the emphasis on guest lectures and industry collaborations at KTH offers practical insights into real-world applications. I appreciate the focus on assignments, which provides hands-on training and a deeper understanding of course material. Additionally, the availability of courses with assignment evaluations only, rather than written exams, allows for a more balanced workload and valuable time for reflection at the end of the semester.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Student life in Stockholm is full of excitement and diversity. The city is fantastic, with lots to do and see, making it a great place to study. There are plenty of students around, and because of that, you get to meet people from all over the world, which is really cool. It's like a big mix of cultures and ideas. Overall, living and studying in Stockholm is a fun and enriching experience.
Have you experienced any cultural shock?
Thankfully, I haven't faced any significant culture shock myself. One thing that stood out to me is how daily life here is more organized and straightforward. There's a sense of calm and respect, something that's quite refreshing. What impressed me the most was the non-judgmental attitude of people. There's a genuine acceptance of others, and folks here are usually more open-minded. Privacy is highly valued, with the understanding that personal matters are just that—personal. The transition has been smooth, and I've appreciated these aspects of Swedish culture.
During your application period, what was the most useful resource that you got from KTH? For example, KTH's website, webinars, ask a KTH student, etc.
During the application period, the most valuable resource I found at KTH was undoubtedly the programme page, which provided comprehensive and up-to-date information about my master's programme. The page was regularly updated, ensuring the information I accessed was current and accurate. The "Connect with a KTH Student" service also proved incredibly useful. Being in Stockholm during the application period, I took advantage of this resource by meeting with a current student. This allowed me to gain direct insights into student life at KTH, tour the campus, and engage in one-on-one conversations, providing me with a deeper understanding of what to expect.
What are some of your favourite courses so far?
Two outstanding courses were "Logistics and Supply Chain Management" and "CAD and Other IT Tools in Industrial Processes".
In Logistics, I explored efficiently managing how goods move from point A to point B. The course was well-structured, and the instructor's expertise made the material easy to grasp. I appreciated the practical approach, which gave me a clear understanding of real-world logistics challenges. I can already foresee how these insights will be invaluable in my future career, especially in industries where effective supply chain management is critical.
"CAD and Other IT Tools in Industrial Processes" extended my computer-aided design (CAD) skills and introduced me to other essential IT tools used in industrial settings. While I was already familiar with CAD, professors Per and Lass provided invaluable guidance that helped me refine my design skills and think more strategically about 3D modelling.
Both courses have played a significant role in shaping my academic journey at KTH, equipping me with practical skills and knowledge that I'm eager to apply in future.