Student Lingyi Chen: ‘At Aalto University, you can turn new ideas into reality'

Why did you choose Aalto University and the Master’s Programme in Electronics and Nanotechnology?

What attracted me most about Aalto University was that it encourages collaboration between different disciplines. I immediately saw the value of working with students from different backgrounds as well as combining courses from different schools.

During my bachelor’s studies, I got interested in photonics. I wanted to learn more, and that’s why I chose the Master’s Programme in Electronics and Nanotechnology, majoring in photonics and nanotechnology.

What has been the most interesting part of your studies?

There are two things: one is the cooperation with students from different backgrounds, which can help in understanding different aspects of things. The second is that I’ve always been encouraged to do the things —be it study or research— that I’m most interested in. The teachers want to hear our ideas and thoughts as well as help us.

I think this is a place where you can make everything possible. At Aalto University, whenever you have a new idea, you can turn it into reality.

What has been the most memorable course or study project?

I’m currently on the Product Development Project course, which is one of the most interesting courses I’ve ever taken. It’s a one-year project-based course where students from different study backgrounds work on real-life development challenges given by companies. It’s a good opportunity to put into practice what we’ve learned and get in contact with the industry. And the most interesting part of this project is probably still on the way – can’t wait to see what’s coming!

Have you got contacts to the industry/companies via your studies?

We have lots of opportunities to get in contact with the industry. The teachers organise visits to relevant companies, which helps us to form a better understanding of the possible career paths and the needs of the companies.

I have also participated in events organised by career services, where students can meet the management or HR people from different companies and get help with CVs, cover letters or job interviews. I think all of these activities can be very helpful for our careers.

What is Aalto University’s environment and student life like?

Aalto is a very diverse and international university. You can easily get into discussions with people from different countries and with different study backgrounds. There are lots of parties and activities we can take part in. The first time I came to Finland, I was afraid I wouldn’t make any friends because I didn’t understand Finnish. However, it seems that all the people I meet here are very friendly.

Student life in Finland is very comfortable and convenient. I really enjoy both the studying and the everyday life here. And I love the heavy snow during winter!

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