Katrin, Portugal
Emma is studying in the final year of the master's programme in Chemical Engineering for Energy and Environment at KTH. She spent one semester as an exchange student at the Instituto Superior Técnico in Portugal.
Why did you choose to go on exchange at Instituto Superior Técnico?
What made choosing an exchange university easier for me was setting some criteria that were important to me, and I wanted my exchange university and experience to meet them. I mainly wanted to explore a place I had never visited, with a sunny and warm climate and surrounded by nature. In addition, it was of great importance to me to study at a relatively good university and have the opportunity to experience an entirely new culture. I had heard great things about Portugal and Técnico from other students there, and eventually, the choice was mine.
What was the most significant difference between the exchange studies and life at KTH?
The most significant difference, compared to KTH, was the education system. There, continuous evaluation is often valued more than the exam itself. Unless it is a very large class, the teachers usually know the students by name, which creates a friendly and personal environment. In terms of lifestyle, people in Portugal are more active in the evening, and late dinners and going out on weekday evenings are typical. There may also be some early evening lectures.
What are the biggest lessons you take away from your exchange studies?
One of the biggest lessons I take from my exchange studies is the fantastic opportunity to meet people from all parts of the world. I have learned a lot about different cultures and how different countries and universities have different ways of doing things, which has developed my ability to communicate and collaborate on a completely different level.
Was there a lot of preparation before the exchange?
Some preparation was required before the exchange, but all the necessary information was available online, and the international coordinator was very helpful in answering all my questions and providing information. However, finding accommodation was a challenge, especially since the university didn't offer any, and I started my search quite late. But if you start on time, this too gets resolved smoothly, given that there are reliable websites where you can look for accommodation.
What advice would you give to students interested in exchange studies?
- Start looking for accommodation well in advance, at least three months before your departure, and try to find a place near a metro station.
- Be active and participate in many student events, especially at the beginning of your stay, as this is when many people are looking for new friends. It's a great opportunity to get to know others.
- Explore Portugal as much as possible. It's a fantastic country with a lot to offer, so take the opportunity to travel around and enjoy your time there.