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"I like how we can apply the knowledge we gain in actual projects assigned by companies"

Jannis comes from Athens in Greece, but was born in Stockholm. He received his bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering at Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland.

What made you choose KTH?

When I was searching for a master's programme in the UK, I couldn't find one that was of interest to me at the time. Since I was born in Sweden, I always had an interest in Sweden, so I started looking at the programmes offered at the various universities. KTH offered the programmes that were the most interesting. In addition, I also have friends and family living here already, so there were practical reasons for my choice, by they did not contribute as much.

What do you like most about KTH?

I like how we can apply the knowledge we gain in actual projects assigned by companies, rather than just being given sterile knowledge.

What are your impressions of Stockholm and Sweden?

One of the first things that stuck out in Stockholm is how much green areas can be found throughout the city. Living in Athens for most of my life, I was used to a more “concrete” environment, and I found it impressive that forests are essentially right next to the city; I rather enjoy my route to KTH Campus, which takes me through the woods. You might even spot a deer.

The people are polite and helpful, and they are happy to switch to English when you speak to them, but you will see them brighten up when you make an effort to speak Swedish.

What do you like most about being here?

I like how Stockholm has everything you’d expect from a city and the capital of a country, minus the pollution and noise. Not only that, it is so close to nature, with many parks throughout the city and around and even within it.

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

It was actually during our main course project. We had been working on a project for most of the semester, and put so much work into it, especially in the last few weeks before the presentation. It felt so rewarding to see all our efforts acknowledged and praised by the company that had assigned us the project!

What do you think are the differences between studying at KTH and your home university?

I cannot easily compare the two, especially since we are talking about different levels of studies. I would say that during my master’s studies I worked more closely with companies and directly applied my acquired knowledge on those projects, which is a great experience. During my bachelor’s studies, such a collaboration only happened once.

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

Go for it! It is a great experience for international students to study abroad and KTH is one of the best technical universities in Europe and the world, with a range of options for collaboration and many opportunities to apply what you learn in real projects. It is also a great place to get introduced to a multitude of people and cultures. Most people that I have spoken with are more concerned about the weather and how different winter would be for them, but do not let that discourage you and miss the chance to expand your horizons.