Sebastian
Sebastian comes from Gothenburg, Sweden. This is a joint master between the three universities TU Delft (Netherlands), TU Berlin (Germany) and KTH, where you choose to study at two universities and receive a double master degree in the end. He studied the first year at TU Berlin, and the final year here at KTH.
He enjoys spending time with friends cooking food, going running, or reading a good book at a nice café.
Why did you choose this master's programme at KTH?
I chose the COSSE programme because of the unique opportunities of getting double master's degrees in just two years in a field I find extremely interesting. For me, combining the experiences of studying at two different universities and experiencing two different cities have so far been immensely stimulating and character developing.
I also chose the COSSE programme since I wanted to use a robust foundation in theoretical mathematics to solve applied, real-world problems. Since the COSSE programme is mainly focused on mathematical modelling and simulation, I considered this a match made in heaven.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
I enjoy many things regarding my programme. Firstly, the coursework is flexible within a certain framework to guide you and enable you to pursue your particular interests. For example, I have chosen to focus (more than others in general) on theoretical mathematics in the first year, but more on scientific computing and numerical mathematics in the second year, and choosing particular courses thereafter.
Secondly, the COSSE programme entails compulsory movement between two universities, which adds a lot of quality both to education and leisure.
Thirdly, the COSSE programme includes compulsory workshops once a year, which gives an opportunity to get inspired by other students of the programme and professors and alumni. This gives unique contacts for the future career.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Student life in Stockholm is extremely varying, in a good sense. Not only is there an almost unlimited number of options on how to engage with the student association (THS), which has numerous sub-associations, or with local chapters, but there is, of course, the whole of Stockholm to be immersed in. Combined with accessible housing provided through KTH, both of these two possibilities can be fully exploited. This duality of student life in Stockholm makes the city suitable for having a stimulating and enjoyable life while studying here.
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
The time here at KTH has been very developing and fun for me. I have met many new life-long friends that I meet regularly, both for studying and outside of school. Studying requires putting a lot of effort and time into the school work, which reflects the high quality of education that KTH provides. However, if balanced right, there are many possibilities of having a very enriched life outside of school. My time at KTH has not only made me develop as a student within technical subjects but has also made me more curious and open to general education. For example, I am nowadays very interested in reading history. Thanks to all the friends I have met here at KTH, many other interests of mine have been accelerated or discovered.
What do you want to do after graduating?
My goal after graduation is to pursue a PhD programme, either at KTH, a university in Gothenburg or Berlin. This is due to all the interesting theories I've been exposed to here at KTH, combined with confidence and drive towards further character development, perhaps pursued abroad.