Madeleine

Why did you choose this master's programme at KTH?

I chose this programme because I felt it would provide me with the necessary skills to make a meaningful impact in the field of engineering. I have a passion for antenna design and electromagnetic phenomena and I really liked how niche and tailored this programme is to these specific parts of electrical engineering. The mixture of theoretical physics courses with applied hands-on courses was very interesting to me as it creates a unique educational experience for individuals passionate about exploring the frontiers of knowledge and innovation. It's an opportunity to apply what I've learned and contribute to the field of electromagnetics. As KTH is a highly ranked school with a lot of great connections and opportunities I felt it was the best fit for me. I also knew I wanted to explore new cultures and countries which led me to Europe. I chose Sweden because the Scandinavian culture was interesting to me coming from a different climate and geography. I was really excited about experiencing living next to a sea with an archipelago and lots of greenery!

What are the best aspects of your programme?

The programme has a fantastic student to teacher ratio! It is super easy to get to know your professors and ask them for help. Also, they are great about remembering your name and making a personal connection with you as well! They are always happy to help and very kind and understanding if you need assistance with something or a deadline moved. I think the exams and projects in the courses are designed in a way that helps you learn and retain knowledge. Another greataspect of the programme is the ability to specialize in what you are interested in, in a way that suits your interests. There are four specializations in the programme: Microwave, Plasma/Fusion, Photonics and Space. In these four specializationsthere are plenty of courses to choose from and they are all interesting and specialized in their own ways. The programme is customizable, so if a student wants to take the Space track but is interested in taking one course from the Microwave track and one course from the Plasma track to explore more of those topics, that is totally okay as well. Also, the programme has a huge international community and it is so awesome to meet people with diverse backgrounds that comefrom all over the world. Everyone has a different approach to learning and it is such a benefit to be able to work with and make friends with people from all over the world.

Have you chosen aspecialisationtrack within the programme? Which track and why?

I have chosen to take the microwave engineering track in the programme because my main interests lie in electromagnetics and antenna design. This has allowed me to expand my knowledge of antennas, microwave devices, electromagnetic theory, etc. It is really cool because there is simulation software that is used in industry that you get to learn, as well as design antennas, fabricate, and test them. These are all skills and knowledge I can take with me throughout the rest of my studies and into my future job. Also, in this area you get to learn about and experience cutting edge research in numerical modeling techniques, periodic structures, lens antennas, geodesic antennas, and many more interesting topics!

How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?

The biggest difference I noticed is the emphasis on theoretical understanding here. In my bachelors, there was some theory but it was quite practical. Here, you get a good mixture of both and you begin the programme with theory courses which are super helpful and fundamental in understanding the topics when you get to the application courses. While I was initially a little worried about the heavy theory courses, they have contributed so much to my understanding of the practical applications and what considerations you should make as an antenna designer. Another difference is in the course organisation. In my home university we had two semesters and you could take up to six courses each in each semester, whereas at KTH you have four periods and generally two courses per period. The periods are about eight weeks each allowing you to focus intensely on two subjects at a time. While it is a lot of information, it is really good in allowing you to focus on and learn those two subjects at a time. The other thing that differs a bit is the amount of organised activities here. In certain classes professors will organise industry visits which involve getting you acquainted with the industry and what they have to offer in terms of job opportunities and master's thesis. Also, the chapters that students belong to organize lots of events as well!

How is student life in Stockholm?

Student life in Stockholm is lots of fun! There is something for everyone here, I think. If you like nature there are a lot ofthings to get outside and see here! There are student discounts for pretty much everything including gyms, transportation, food, etc. There is a student committee that organizes lots of events that everyone can get involved in and there are lots ofclubs on campus like the Outdoor Club that will organize events in kayaking, skiing, climbing, running, anything outside.You can even swim year round if you are brave enough. My friends and I try to go at least once a month, even in the winter! There are a bunch of other clubs, as well, and if you want to get involved in sports there are sports teams here that travel and compete in other countries! There is a huge focus on work life balance and there are lots of great cafes and restaurants near campus where you can take a break, get a fika, and relax during the day! There are lots of student accommodations near campus and KTH which makes it easy to meet people especially in the first few weeks as they organize all types of events for students to meet and get to know each other.

What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master's studies?

Choosing KTH for my master's was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I think it can be a little scary to wonder if you are making the right decision especially if you are coming from a different continent or even a different country butthe university really tries to make you feel at home. You get to meet people from all over the world, make really good friends, and form great relationships with your professors. This programme in specific is so unique in how it allows you to specialize in an area of your interest and gain a lot of valuable knowledge in both theoretical and applied work! Good luck, and if you have any questions or worries, please reach out to me! I am happy to help :)