Lars found KTH when looking for new challenges
Lars Lindemann is originally comes from Kiel in Germany where he studied at Christian-Albrechts-Universität. He was a student in the master's programme in Systems, Control and Robotics between 2014 and 2016, and than he decided to pursue with a PhD in Automatic Control.
Why did you apply to KTH?
I've been looking for a new challenge and a study programme that covers state-of-the-art technology. For me, robotics is something that will shape our future in many ways and I want to be part of this development. Systems, Control and Robotics at KTH offers the opportunity to choose courses in computer science, control theory, mathematics, signal processing, biological topics and many other areas - which is perfect to gain fundamental knowledge within robotics.
What is your best tips for a new Master's student?
Basically two things: Go out and make new friends - living abroad for two years can be a long time without good friends. I also really enjoy the diverse environment since it is a great fun to meet people from all over the world, exploring their habits and lifestyles. Some of your own stereotypes will fall down and others will pop up. On the other hand, I'd like to encourage everyone to study hard. It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get excellent education in such an environment and after a while you will realise how cool robotics can be.
What are your impressions of Stockholm and Sweden?
Stockholm is outstanding in many different ways. The wonderful landscape in and out of town, equality (in every sense) and the high living quality, just to mention a few things. Biking and hiking in the nature is a must for everyone. But be aware of the cold and dark winter...
Is there something about life in Stockholm and Sweden that has surprised you?
Many different things. Even though I expected a beautiful town and a wonderful landscape beforehand, I was astonished by the real beauty of Stockholm. But I've also been surprised by the dark winter - I was expecting coldness, but I haven't thought about the darkness at all. Swedes themselves are in general very friendly, but it can be hard to get in touch - so I can really recommend to learn Swedish from the beginning on.
Do you have a place in the city that you enjoy spending time at?
Since all of my friends are always at the library, I love to spend at least my study time there. But besides that, I enjoy living on Kungsholmen having running tracks and shopping markets nearby. For a nice evening with good food I can really recommend Hellströms Bar near Medborgarplatsen.
What do you do in your spare time?
I spend most of the time with my friends or doing triathlon. On a free evening I like to enjoy a good movie. But I also like to study on my own and deepen my knowledge in different areas that I'm interested in. In particular these areas are biomechanics, sport related topics (like food or training philosophy), robotics and entrepreneurship.
How do you keep in touch with your family and friends from home?
Family and old friends are indeed important to meet, but due to Facebook and Skype it is not a big deal to keep in touch with most of them. I often contact old friends just to see how they are doing and to keep the connection alive.
What do you want to do after you have received your degree from KTH?
The chances are high that I will pursue a Ph.D.
Is there any advice you would like to give others that will come and live in Stockholm and study at KTH in the future?
Don't hesitate to ask questions. Study hard, be open and get in contact with new people.
