KTH values diversity and group collaboration
Siwat comes from Bangkok, Thailand. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Chulalongkorn University in his home country. Apart from studies, he is passionate about music and instruments. He likes playing the guitar and loves going to concerts.
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
KTH is one of the top-ranked technical universities in Europe and in the world. It offers a variety of master’s programmes, including aerospace engineering. KTH has strong connections with industries and I believe this will contribute to my career path in the future. Moreover, KTH is famous in terms of its internationality. Students from all over the world come to KTH during the year, including exchange students and double degree students.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
The programme is divided into four tracks that students can freely choose according to their own interests. We can also take other courses apart from what is stated in the syllabus. In addition, the programme works closely with the industry, and this provides many opportunities for students to get hands-on experience related to the field. There are also a lot of extracurricular projects in which you can participate.
Have you chosen a specialisation track within the programme? If Yes, which track and why?
My specialisation track is aeronautics. The main reason I chose this particular track is that I am interested in aerodynamics and aircraft design. The track selection occurs after the semester begins. Thus, you will have at least some idea of what you will be learning in each track.
What are your favourite courses so far?
One of my favourite courses is the Introduction to Flight, which is one of the first courses I took at KTH. Apart from the lectures, we had a project assignment. All students were divided into multi-cultural teams and we had to build a glider made from balsa wood. Overall, it was an interesting and useful course. I had a chance to meet some very nice people from my team and other teams.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
The system at KTH is very different from that of my home university. Each semester at KTH is divided into two periods. Thus, the workload is spread out over the semester and we can focus on only a few courses during each period. In my opinion, this type of system results in the effectiveness and continuity of the learning process. In addition, the week before the examination is called the exam preparation week. No classes are held during this week, which allows students to study before the examination. Furthermore, there is a re-examination period just in case you fail or would like to improve your grades.
Moreover, the relationship between students and teachers is quite informal. We address them by their first names, which makes things less complicated. Moreover, the teachers are open to any discussion that may be related to the lecture, and this enhances the students’ learning experience.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Stockholm is a really charming city. It mixes the city lifestyle and nature perfectly. There are plenty of parks, forests and lakes that are very easy to access – they are close to the residential areas. The city is not too crowded (compared to where I come from). I always discover new spots for photography. One of my impressions of Stockholm is that it is internationally friendly. I find it is convenient to communicate in English. Getting around the city is simple – you only need one card for the public transport system.
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
I am really enjoying my time here. KTH has a suitable learning environment. The teachers are friendly. My classmates are from all over the world and I really enjoy learning from them. There are plenty of activities that match my interests (both academic and non-academic related).
What do you want to do after graduating?
After I complete my master's degree, I plan to start working on my PhD, after which I hope to work in the research and development department of an international aerospace company. I aim to contribute to the field and make the world a better place.
What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for their master’s studies?
I don’t regret choosing KTH for my master’s study and I am really enjoying my time here. It was also a very important life decision for me. The first year was amazing and I hope that the coming years will be even better!