The introduction for students was very enjoyable and gave me a good overview of the university and the city
Bente comes from The Netherlands. For her bachelor’s degree she studied civil engineering at Saxion University of Applied Sciences in Enschede, The Netherlands. In her spare time she likes hiking, reading, playing tennis, travelling and photography.
Why did you choose this master’s programme at KTH?
During my bachelor’s I did a short programme in railway engineering. I found it very interesting as it was not covered in the general part of my bachelor’s degree. I decided I wanted to do a master’s and the programme at KTH suited me best. I visited Stockholm and KTH to get an impression and loved the city. So I decided to apply.
What are the best aspects of your programme?
One of the best aspects of the programme is that it is small. All the teachers know the students and all the students know each other. This makes it very easy to ask someone something and it provides an informal ambiance.
Another aspect is the cooperation with the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Because one half of the courses are given at UIUC, the study is very international. You can learn about the differences between the various continents and the different approaches that are taken to a situation.
The cooperation with UIUC also offers an excellent variety between theoretical and applied information.
What are your favourite courses thus far?
One of my favourite courses was the Rail Vehicle Dynamics course. I liked the theoretical approach that was combined with the project work at the end. The project helped me to understand the theory for the exam and the course.
One other course I really liked was the Signalling and Control course that was given via UIUC. It was very interesting to see all the different aspects of railway engineering come together and to learn how the current system was developed.
How do studies at KTH differ from your previous studies?
The current studies mainly differ because everything is taught in English. My bachelor’s degree was taught in Dutch. However, the English used in the study is very accessible and even though the words might be different, the theory that is used remains the same.
Another difference is the number of courses. At KTH I usually have two courses per period, whereas during my bachelor’s I had about six per term. I also really like the fact that there are four periods per year. The same applied to my bachelor’s and studying not only right before an exam but during the entire period keeps me motivated.
How is student life in Stockholm?
The student life in Stockholm is excellent. The Student Union (THS) offers lot of clubs and activities. At the beginning of my studies I decided to become a (board) member of the KTH Outdoor Club. It has been enjoyable to combine studying with weekly events and organising different kinds of outdoor activities. I have also played tennis at the Tennis Club. I therefore think that every student will find an association that will suit their interests and ambitions.
Stockholm is an attractive city with lots of student activities, nature and many things to explore.
How would you describe your time at KTH so far?
My time at KTH has been very enjoyable. Even though the last few months have been different than expected. KTH has maintained a good connection with the students and ensured that all courses and exams could continue.
The introduction for students was very enjoyable and gave me a good overview of the university and the city. I really like being on campus and in the Vehicle Engineering Lab. There is nearly always someone who you can study with or talk to.
What do you want to do after graduating?
I’m not sure what I want to do after graduating, but I am sure it will be in the field of Railway Engineering. There are many things that can be improved and renewed in the system and it would be an honour to be a small part of this process.
What would you like to say to students thinking of choosing KTH for their master’s studies?
If you’re interested, then just do it! The Railway Programme combines mechanical, civil, electrical and transportation engineering. So there will always be a course that you will find interesting.
If you have any questions or doubts, you are always welcome to send me an email.