"One of my advisors from my home university was from KTH and always talked wonders about KTH and Sweden"

What made you choose KTH?

One of my advisors from my home university was from KTH and always talked wonders about KTH and Sweden in general. I was motivated to choose KTH after an extensive research among universities in Europe that had Materials Science in their programmes. I wanted a two-year programme in English, and given KTH’s ranking and prestige the decision made itself.

Sweden has always drawn my attention. My home country of Chile and Sweden have a long history of cooperation, and a lot of my compatriots came here to try their luck. One of my mom’s sisters came here and has stayed for over 30 years. She loves Stockholm and thinks it’s the best place to live. After a year here, I couldn’t agree more.

What do you like most about KTH?

I love the way KTH truly thinks about their students. My professors want me to succeed and learn, not just to get a passing grade and that’s it. They give us real-life work, with real companies and in real settings. We get to practice long before we graduate; the hands-on approach is really something I had never experienced before.

What are your impressions of Stockholm and Sweden?

I find Sweden a very beautiful and safe place. I love how you can find things to do no matter what you enjoy; whether you are an introvert and likes nature, or if you’re a partying, thrill-seeking person. There’s something for everyone here.

What is your best memory from your time at KTH so far?

So many memories to choose from! But if I had to pick one, I would say the day of my first introductory class in Materials Science. At that moment, I realized for the first time that everything I had ever done in my life had gotten me to this point, where I was doing exactly what I had dreamed of. It goes without saying that the days after that were filled with new challenges, new friends, and amazing times!

Are there any differences between studying at KTH and your home university?

There are many differences I would say. My home university is a top university in Latin America and is very strict and demanding; we would have many tests during the period in addition to loads of papers and assignments. I think that made the learning process a bit more difficult and exhausting. At KTH, on the other hand, I have more time in each course to fully dedicate to learning the subject. Almost every course I’ve taken has a project too, which makes us apply what we have learned in a very tangible way. More often than not the projects come from industry – actual problems that require creative and young minds to solve them.

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

Don’t be afraid of the weather! It’s not as awful as they picture it, just a warm coat and you’re ready to see amazing snow-covered landscapes. On a more serious note, studying here at KTH has been a wonderful experience in every possible way. Not only have I gained knowledge, but also friends, contacts, and opportunities for a lifetime.

What do you see as the most significant aspects of your programme?

My programme has three tracks tailored for three different purposes. Industrial Materials, Materials and Process Design, and the most recent addition Sustainable Materials. That we have a say in how our education is structured is very important in my opinion when choosing a Master’s degree. These three tracks give us the opportunity to explore different subjects related to what we like and what we want to achieve once we leave KTH.

Are you taking part in any student activities?

Not right now! I would like to participate eventually in Engineers Without Borders. They have a local chapter here at KTH and are involved in many exciting projects.

Do you have a dream job after graduating from KTH?

I have several, actually. My dream job would be working in R&D related to materials sustainability in a research institute, university, or company. I’m currently thinking about the idea of applying for a PhD at KTH as well. The possibilities with this degree from KTH are truly endless!