Shefali
Shefali is originally from Mumbai, India and finished her bachelor's degree at D.J. Sanghvi College of Engineering in Mumbai before moving to Sweden immediately. Her hobbies include drawing, dancing, baking, and sometimes writing poems. She also enjoys networking and meeting new people.
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
KTH immediately made an impression on me by being Sweden's oldest technical university and top-ranked worldwide. This master's programme specifically offers excellent integration of energy and environmental courses that can assist humans in becoming carbon-free and fossil-free. Moreover, industrial processes and energy production needs to become more sustainable. The programme was a perfect fit for my career because of the research-oriented environment and multiple collaborations with the industry. Since all the lessons are in English, you can choose the courses based on your interests. In addition, KTH holds a high global ranking for graduate employability.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
I believe the programme is a good mix of practical laboratory work, studying cutting-edge technology and interactions with companies. The ability to convert lectures into discussions for better understanding is a plus. Additionally, the professors are helpful and friendly. For instance, I had a technical interview where I had to read a research paper. The same week, I had to submit a review of another research paper as an assignment. But after speaking with the professor, I was allowed to write a review of the same research paper for which I had an interview. As a result, I believe that the best aspect is that the courses are flexible enough to allow students to design their career paths.
What are some of your favourite courses so far?
My favourite course is Carbon Dioxide Neutral Energy and Transport Systems because I believe it provides a good overview of the renewable technologies and the most recent technological developments that can help achieve the carbon neutrality goal. My second favourite course was Risk Analysis and Management, in which my project group visited KTH's small-scale pilot plant to study its safety measures. The Environmental Management course was unique as it had many guest lectures from different companies to discuss their sustainable strategies. These guest lectures and exercises were quite fascinating and informative.
How is student life in Stockholm?
KTH has numerous student organisations that assist students in integrating at KTH and in Sweden. I have been part of several committees, including THS Armada (Scandinavia’s largest career fair), Malvina (a network that gathers KTH’s female and non-binary students) and KTH Career Blogging. Even the courses are designed so that the students can work together. This helps to learn the culture of different countries and helps to meet new people. I also believe living in student housing is beneficial as you can make some good friends and share each other’s cultures. Although living here is a bit pricey, Stockholm is truly captivating! It is beautiful to experience the seasons by colour-changing leaves from green to red and back again.
What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master’s studies?
KTH has brought a lot of exciting opportunities for me. From studying the latest technology to being part of some amazing organisations. I even got a part-time job through KTH and did my research internship in Canada. KTH provides students with numerous opportunities and chances to shape their careers and explore their interests. I highly recommend students choose KTH and explore their interests, whether research or industry.