Dominik says his programme offers a broad spectrum of courses from different fields of chemistry
Dominik Kinschel from Salzburg in Austria studies the master's programme in Molecular Science and Engineering at KTH. Dominik says that Stockholm is definitely one of the most beautiful cities he has been to so far, and the fact that it is built on 14 islands gives a special atmosphere and very clean air.
What made you decide to start studying at KTH?
I came to Stockholm for holidays and visited KTH's beautiful campus. After coming back and doing some research on KTH I realized that this is the perfect place for going abroad.
How did you decide which programme to choose?
I was not sure on what I wanted to specialize so Molecular Science and Engineering was the perfect choice for me. It offers a broad spectrum of courses from different fields of chemistry and opened up the opportunity to figure out what I really like and then specialize within this field.
What do you see as the greatest aspects of your programme?
A broad spectrum of courses is a great aspect of my programme. Often there is a very good ratio of students to teachers and the chance to pick courses from a broad spectrum makes it easy.
How do studies here at KTH differ in comparison to your previous experience?
The courses contain more project and teamwork and often offer the opportunity to choose the topic of the project, which I think is a great chance to learn more about things you are really interested in. And the courses have more credits, so you can focus more on one field.
What are your impressions of Stockholm and Sweden?
Stockholm is definitely one of the most beautiful cities I have been so far, the fact that it is built on 14 islands gives a special atmosphere and very clean air. I also like that there is a lot of nature even with in the city. Looking at the countryside it reminds a bit of Austria, but less densely populated.
Is there something about life in Stockholm and Sweden that has surprised you?
I expected it to be similar to my country of origin, but when you live here and get to know the Swedish culture and people I realized that there are a lot of differences. But I think what surprised me the most are the differences in nightlife.
Do you have a place in the city that you really enjoy and spend time at?
There are a lot of nice and unique places in the city, what came into my mind first is Waldemarsudde, a really nice place during summer to go for a cafe, take a walk or catch some sun.
Could you describe a regular day as a student at KTH?
There is no regular day, that’s what I enjoy the most. The schedule is different every week, so from four courses a day to no courses at all there is everything included and the time you assign for projects and assignments can be chosen as long as you keep the deadlines so it gives you a lot of freedom.
Are you taking part in any student activities, if so please tell us a bit about them?
I took part in the welcome activities which are organized for international students and helps a lot to find new friends, get to know the campus and student life.
What do you want to do after you have received your degree here at KTH?
I still have some months to go, so my current mission is to find an answer to this question. And KTH offers a variety of help, starting from company fairs, lunch lectures and so on, supporting you to find your dream job.
Is there any advice you would like to give others that will come and live in Stockholm and study at KTH in the future?
See the bureaucracy and finding a flat as a challenge and don't give up. It is definitely worth it!