Benjamin
Benjamín comes from Chile. Before coming to Sweden, he was working as a Structural Engineer. He did his bachelor's studies in Structural Engineering. In his free time, he loves exploring cities by walking or wandering around with a bike.
Have you chosen a specialisation track within the programme? If Yes, which track and why?
Yes. I chose the track in Structural Engineering even though I already have some experience in this field because I'm passionate about it, and I wanted to deepen my knowledge. In my country, there is a lot of focus in the design of concrete structures, but I have a strong interest in designing structures using sustainable materials. Hence, I intended to learn about the design of timber structures. Also, I am strongly interested in bridge analysis and design. Sweden is a country with vast experience in these two topics, and KTH is one of the best universities to study this.
What are some of your favourite courses so far?
As expected, my favourite courses have been Bridge design and Design of Timber-based Hybrid structures. Especially the last one, because we had this project competition in which we worked with architects to design a real timber bridge, and the students built the winning bridge.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
The most significant difference is that most courses are divided into different forms of learning, like lectures, exercises, workshops, assignments, and projects, where each is equally important for learning. In my home university, they focused too much on the lectures and the exams. Opposite to that, most of the courses are project-based at KTH and require collaboration with other students.
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
My time at KTH has been great, not only because it's one of the top universities in the world but also because Stockholm is such an excellent place to study and live. KTH gives a really good balance between studies and having time for yourself because part of this adventure of studying abroad is about personal development, and this country is the perfect place for it.
What do you want to do after graduating?
After graduation, I plan to work in an international Engineering Consulting Company as a bridge engineer so that I can participate in the design of bridges around the world.