4 Tips for Your First Year at KTH – From Students Who’ve Been There

Hej alla! It’s been a while since we last posted here, so we’re excited to be back—and what better way to restart the blog than by sharing some advice from students who’ve just wrapped up their first year at KTH?  

The first year can be a whirlwind, but it’s also full of amazing opportunities. We’ve been there, and we’ve put together our top tips to help you make the most of it. From cultural events to study strategies, here are a few things we wish someone had told us when we were just getting started. 

1. Explore Outside the University Bubble

By Annysia

As an international master’s student, it can be easy to stick to the social circles within classes, student housing, and university organizations. I’ve found that trying out new hobbies and joining clubs unrelated to school had three major benefits. First, it helped me appreciate Sweden’s culture while also getting to practice the Swedish language! Second, you get to grow your network outside of those you know from school. This can help you twofold: making new friends and supporting your career! Third, is simply getting outside of your comfort zone to try new things – whether it’s reading a new book, trying a different sport, or colouring at a café.

2. Ask Questions and Find Your Balance

By Alex

One tip I would give to new students is not to be afraid to ask questions. At KTH the courses can feel overwhelming at first, especially when everything is new, but you will quickly notice that many of your classmates are wondering about the same things as you. Talking to classmates and professors helps a lot, both for understanding the material and for not feeling alone. Study groups are also really helpful because you learn faster when you explain things to each other.

Another important thing is to manage your time early, since small and consistent study sessions work much better than last-minute cramming. Make sure to use the resources KTH and your teachers provide like the library, workshops, seminars and so on. It is also important to take breaks and enjoy student life by joining activities and events, since that helps you make friends. Balance between studies and social life is key and that has worked best for me. Finally, remember that it is okay not to understand everything right away because learning is a process.

3. Attend Stockholm’s Cultural Events

By Runze

One of the best parts of living in Stockholm is the access to unique cultural activities. For example, every October, the city hosts “Nobel Calling Week”, a ten-day celebration filled with lectures, exhibitions and lab tours. You can also visit the fascinating KTH Reactor Hall, a decommissioned nuclear reactor that is now open for public tours, or experience Swedish holidays such as Valborg and Midsummer. Another event I truly enjoyed was the East Asia Culture Festival in Kungsträdgården, which offered a chance to explore East Asian traditions from a European perspective. In April, the cherry blossoms in Kungsträdgården are a must-see as the entire park turns pink — a truly magical sight. It is fascinating to notice what local audiences find surprising or exciting about cultures you may already know.

4. Have Fun Along the Way!

By Ruban

Your time at KTH might just be some of your last years as a student—so make the most of it! It’s not only about deadlines, labs, and lectures, but also about enjoying the journey. Dive into the learning, celebrate the knowledge you gain, and embrace the student lifestyle to the fullest.

If you feel like going on that spontaneous hike—do it. If you want to try Swedish fika three times in one day—why not? Go for those new experiences, whether it’s joining a student party, exploring Stockholm, or tackling a tricky project that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Even the assignments (yes, even the late-night ones) are part of the experience. Give them your best shot and appreciate them for what they are: stepping stones in your journey. After all, each assignment, each group project, and each lecture might be your last one as a student—so why not enjoy it while it lasts?