Anna

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

Over the six years at Moscow University, I have formed a thorough mathematical foundation and investigated many theoretical concepts. After graduation, I decided to supplement that knowledge with developed applied methods and tools to provide society with practical, real-life values. Being among top-ranked universities, I applied to KTH, specifically concentrating on MSc Applied and Computational Mathematics without any hesitations. Additionally, I have never been to Nordic countries, which are famous for the high life satisfaction level, and I was curious to know about it more. I was honoured to the KTH Scholarship, which is helping me to put all my time and effort on studies.  

What are the best aspects of your programme?

MSc Applied and Computational Mathematics programme offers four different tracks, and after the first semester, students can choose a preferable specialisation. From my experience, it helps a lot with gaining deeper knowledge in the field and being involved in studies. It is also worth mentioning that you can pick the courses based on your preferences, making studies more interesting and exciting. 

Here, as homework, we have a lot of practice in real-life assignments and projects, which contributes to a better understanding of courses' material and helps to build a portfolio to be competitive on the job market later. 

Regardless of the track's choice, a thesis, or a degree project, might be carried out in an academic or industrial environment in Sweden or abroad. We are free to seek suitable projects that we are interested in, both in the academy and industry.

How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?

The main difference is that the courses at my programme are intensive and demand a lot of attention. Since we constantly have to work on group projects and mandatory assignments, you are always involved in studies and follow courses material. Especially during the Covid time, it helps to stay focus and motivated.  

It is also worth noting that the university environment is very open here. All teachers and teacher assistants with whom I was working this year were always ready to help and give helpful advice and recommendations. Communication between teachers, university staff and students works efficiently, which allows us to solve any problems in the shortest possible time.

How is student life in Stockholm?

Because of the Covid restrictions, it was not possible to fully enjoy student life in Stockholm. Still, we had a unique opportunity to participate in student events organised in the first month of arrival when I met most of my close friends. We were able to travel around Sweden freely; as an example, we enjoyed the Northern Lights in Lapland and the landscapes of Gotland this year. But even if you stay only in Stockholm for the whole study period, there are plenty of things to do, from fancy restaurants and local street food to amusement parks and hiking around national parks. I have not met students here who were bored and did not find anything interesting to do. 

After one year of being in Sweden and studying at KTH, I would say that this is the most amazing and eventful time I have ever had in my life. I am eternally grateful to KTH for the opportunity to be here, and since my master's programme lasts two years, I am so happy and excited to stay in Stockholm for a bit longer.

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

Solely speaking from my experience and feeling, I would say that accepting the offer from KTH was the best decision I have ever made, which changed my life. Open-minded university environment, interesting courses and projects, beautiful area to live in all together makes this experience special. I am not trying to advertise studying at KTH; I wanted to say that it might seem challenging to study here or move to a foreign country, but it is always worth it.