Nelson
Nelson comes from Honduras. Before coming to Sweden, he was working as an Environmental Consultant for the Honduras Government. He did his bachelor's studies in Civil Engineering. In his free time, he tries to stay active, playing football and practicing yoga.
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
I chose this programme because it allowed me to consolidate and develop my previous education and work experience. This programme will enable me to pursue my interest in Environmental Affairs with a focus on sustainability, which is necessary to meet the environmental challenges we face today, equipping me with the tools to be an agent of change. Additionally, the programme offers a lot of freedom between the different courses, and KTH is renowned for its excellence in Engineering Education and Innovation.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
One of the programme's best aspects is its flexibility in the course selection. There are no specific tracks which allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. The programme also balances theoretical and practical approaches with fieldwork and laboratory work opportunities.
What are some of your favourite courses so far?
All of the courses I have taken so far have been very rewarding. One of my favourites is "Political Economy for Environmental Planners", which included the mechanisms of the global political economic system and its impacts on Environmental and Sustainability issues at various levels. One aspect of this course that genuinely stood out for me was the different seminars. For instance, the Negotiations Simulation Seminar allowed us to actively engage in a real-life negotiation scenario, focusing on transboundary water issues. This experience helped me understand international negotiation dynamics and the attributes of Environmental negotiation within the climate change debate.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
Studying at KTH has been a unique experience compared to my previous studies. At KTH, courses incorporate a variety of methodologies, such as real-case scenario projects, different types of examinations, and seminars which allow room for discussion with students and professors. This approach encourages a more interactive learning experience, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, KTH has allowed me to immerse myself in an international environment, interacting with diverse cultures and backgrounds previously unfamiliar.
How is student life in Stockholm?
Student life in Stockholm is very active, providing multiple opportunities for international students to engage in. Stockholm is a cosmopolitan centre, easy to communicate in English, and accessible with an efficient public transport system. One of the best aspects is the wide range of cultural, artistic, and sports events throughout the year. There is always something happening in the city. The city is filled with natural beauty, with numerous parks and green spaces to explore and the archipelago surrounding Stockholm offers possibilities for outdoor activities, such as swimming, hiking or kayaking. In the winter, you can ice skate on frozen lakes or ski in nearby resorts.
What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for master’s studies?
I know that deciding on the future is tough, but if you're ready to embark on a rewarding experience, then KTH is the place to be. You know how they say, "Get out of your comfort zone"? Well, KTH and Stockholm take that saying to a new level! Sure, it might be intimidating initially, but trust me, it's worth it. That's when growth can take place.