Paula
Paula comes from Tenerife, Spain. Before she decided to start a master's programme in Cybersecurity at KTH, she studied Software Engineering at the Universidad Complutense de Madrid. She is very outgoing and loves hanging out with friends, whether they're watching a movie, camping in the mountains, or ice skating.
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
Ever since I became interested in computer science, I knew I wanted to specialise in cybersecurity. When the time came to choose a master’s program, I conducted extensive research on the cybersecurity master’s programs offered by different universities across Europe. KTH undoubtedly became my top choice; not only did I like the curriculum, but it also seemed to offer a welcoming student environment and an excellent academic reputation.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
My program strikes the perfect balance. On one hand, the mandatory first-year courses provide a strong and extensive foundation covering both practical and theoretical aspects of cybersecurity. On the other hand, most of the program consists of elective courses, which makes it feel like a personalised “choose your own adventure” experience, tailored to your specific interests within the broad field of cybersecurity. I especially appreciate how hands-on the program is, constantly allowing students to challenge themselves without having to rely solely on memorising large amounts of theory. The professors are excellent instructors who are always supportive when needed and can bring out the best in each student.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Stockholm is an international city where students can have a great time at any hour of the day - morning, afternoon, or night. It is a vibrant and lively city where you can just as easily go downtown to enjoy a fika as attend one of the many cultural events organised throughout the year. KTH Royal Institute of Technology also has incredible green spaces where, whenever the weather is nice, you can simply take a walk or lie on the grass and enjoy the sun.
What do you want to do after graduating?
After graduating, I would love to find a job and stay here for at least a few more years. Stockholm is a city that I have completely fallen in love with because of the sense of calm it maintains, despite being a capital city. And Sweden is a country with so many things left to discover that it would truly break my heart to have to leave so soon.
What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master’s studies?
I would tell them to genuinely consider it, because it is possibly one of the best decisions they could make in their lives. I had to move here, far away from my family and friends, and yet there has not been a single day when I regretted the decision I made. Thanks to KTH, I have met wonderful people from many different places and academic backgrounds. I have also become even more certain that cybersecurity is both my passion and my professional future, and that Sweden and its people are truly something no one should miss experiencing.