What I Wish I Knew Before Choosing My Master's Programme

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03 March 2025

InnoBlog : What I Wish I Knew Before Choosing My Master’s Programme

Choosing a master’s programme is a significant decision that shapes your academic journey and professional career. As a current student in the EIT InnoEnergy Masters+ in Smart Electrical Networks and Systems or SENSE as we call it, I have gained invaluable insights that I wish I had known before starting. Here’s my advice for prospective students considering SENSE this year.

Be Ready for an Intensive but Rewarding Experience

SENSE is designed to be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. From the very beginning, we review all core concepts in electric power engineering to refresh our skills. This ensures that we have a strong foundation before diving into new and emerging technologies like smart grids and renewable energy management. The programme is fast-paced, and students are expected to adapt quickly. Staying on top of coursework and proactively engaging with professors and peers can make a significant difference. Although you don’t need to worry a lot, as the courses are structured in such a way that we understand everything happening in the class, and frequent assignments ensure that we stay in touch with the topics taught in the class.

Exposure to Cutting-Edge Renewable Energy Systems

Studying at KTH Royal Institute of Technology has been an eye-opening experience, especially regarding renewable energy. Sweden is at the forefront of sustainable energy solutions, and this programme provides firsthand exposure to how renewable energy is shaping the present and future of the power sector. Many of the courses are designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. This hands-on approach ensures that students are not only aware of theoretical concepts but also gain practical experience in implementing them. This is very good to know, as you students are actually guaranteed a good experience in the course, and an industrial and practical approach to electric power systems and energy management

The ESADE Business Module

One unique aspect of this programme is the ESADE business module, which, while intense, is extremely valuable. The tight schedules can be overwhelming, but the module broadens our understanding beyond technical subjects. Learning about entrepreneurship, business management, and innovation has proven to be an essential skill set. The summer school in Barcelona is particularly engaging, as it provides a challenging yet fun experience of building entrepreneurial ideas from scratch. The module also involves real-world projects where students develop real business models, pitch their ideas to industry experts, and receive constructive feedback, making it a truly transformative experience.

The Opportunity to Travel and Build an International Network

One of the biggest advantages of SENSE is the opportunity to travel and experience different cultures. The journey takes us through Barcelona, Grenoble, and Krakow, among other places. This exposure enhances learning and helps build a strong international network of peers, professors, and industry professionals. Additionally, this is a mobility programme, meaning that students will be studying at a different university in the second year. This provides a completely different academic and cultural experience, allowing for deeper exposure to different teaching methodologies, research opportunities, and networking prospects. The ability to adapt to multiple universities and learning environments is a unique aspect that adds immense value to the overall education and career prospects.

Balancing Academics and Personal Life

With such a demanding curriculum and extensive travel, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial. The workload can be rigorous at times, and effective time management is essential. Finding time for extracurricular activities, socializing, and relaxation helps in avoiding burnout. Additionally, engaging in student organizations and networking events can provide a support system and enrich the overall learning experience.

Final Thoughts

If you are considering a master’s programme that offers both technical depth and business acumen, this could be an excellent choice. The key is time management and adaptability, as you will juggle technical studies, business modules, and travel. In the end, the experience is highly enriching and provides immense personal and professional growth.

Would I choose this programme again? Absolutely! Well, if I knew about the stuff that I had mentioned before, it would have been better to suit myself to the scenario and be much more prepared for the workload while balancing it with day-to-day activities. As I look ahead to my second year in a new university, in a new country, I realize that this journey is far from over. There will be more challenges, more learning curves, and more moments of growth. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. To those considering this path, know that you won’t have all the answers at the start, but with this guide, you have a headstart on what to expect from this course, and trust me, it is an adventure of its own. And whatever new challenge props up on the way, I am sure that you would be able to figure it out, just like I did, and come out stronger.

This blog is written by Varun Venugopal, Smart Electrical Networks & Systems (SENSE) Masters+ student

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