Ms Avaznejad is also pleased with the practical approach of her programme, which actually made Aalto her first choice from the very beginning. Before applying, she looked up for information about many international master’s programmes and thought that her current programme was complete, concrete, and practical. ‘I thought that this is what I want; to learn about security practically.’
The programme has met her expectations. ‘I really recommend the programme! When you work on projects, assignments and do practical hands-on work in addition to theory, you will learn more,’ she says. According to Avaznejad, the researchers and professors at Aalto are willing to help students and the university shows that it cares about its students. ‘If you do not know how to find an internship, for example, Aalto helps with student fairs and job fairs.’
At the beginning of her studies, she was astonished by the seemingly fast pace of studies. ‘I wondered how I can complete 120 ECTS in just two years. This concept of five periods was fully new to me because in Iran we have only two semesters. But then I noticed I can complete two or three courses in a period, and now I think the system is really good.’
Aalto master’s students plan their own timetables, which can sometimes feel challenging. Ms Shmeleva: ‘I remember one time in my first year when I stayed with my fellow students at the Computer Science building until 2 a.m. because we had an assignment deadline early in the next morning. That was quite difficult time because I had wanted to take as many courses as possible in my first year.’
Finnish nature and seasons are beautiful
Both students seem to enjoy living in Finland. ‘For example, commuting here is just amazing. I like living close to the university and nature in Finland because it is so green. It is really easy to go out for a walk and get away from the studies,’ Ms Shmeleva says.