Six months into his Master's, international student Ali V. Tehrani says studying in Gothenburg has empowered him with new tools, mindsets and the courage to dream bigger.
"I came to Gothenburg to continue my studies, but I fell in love with it! For so many reasons I would love to work here after finishing my studies. It is clear that this society respects people for who they are, not the labels they might have. That is really valuable to me," says Ali.
Ali is a 30 year-old Iranian-born student at Chalmers University. Having studied Computer Science at Azad University, Iran, Ali left home to continue with Mobile Computing at Limkokwing University in Malaysia. He graduated with the highest university recognitions possible: a Vision 2020 Award and the President's Award for Young Achievers. Since August last year, he has been working towards his Master's in International Project Management in Gothenburg.
"I found Chalmers via the studyinsweden.se portal, a database about universities in Sweden. In fact I had a number of offers from British universities, but the tuition fees and the duration of the Master's degree made me focus on Sweden. Chalmers was my first priority and I'm confident it was a good choice. Studying at Chalmers is not only about theories and literature; most of the subjects are somehow industry-driven and practical."
Ali finds his master's program highly rewarding, and enjoys his interactions with students and staff, especially considering previous student experiences.
"In my opinion the Swedish education system is way better. At Chalmers, studying is a process, not an activity. Learning is not limited to the classrooms and because of the team work and group projects, there are so many things to be learned outside of the classroom."
The relationship between the students and professors is also different.
"Here in Sweden, we call our professors by their first name, which is quite odd for many new students. But at the same time, the relationship is based on mutual respect. When I see my professors as friendly, open and respectful, in return I'll try my best to be as good as they deserve. After only six months of studying at Chalmers, I can see so many new opportunities in front of me; it gives me the courage to follow my passions more seriously."
Gothenburg has also afforded Ali ample opportunities to pursue personal interests. He is a keen amateur photographer and likes spending time in the city capturing the seasons, the people and the wide variety of art and culture.
"I came here in late August last year. The colours of autumn were magnificent. As for culture, Gothenburg is probably like a heaven. There is always some kind of artistic activity going on and I try to enjoy them as much as I can. Another thing I like about Sweden is the fact that physical activities are a part of the lifestyle. Many people, if not all, are doing some kind of sports."
Ali admits that Swedish icons Volvo and IKEA, with their images of safety and comfort, were a part of his original interest in the country. However he is clear that Sweden itself, and specifically Gothenburg, have proven important boons to his life as a student.Ali has no doubts that Gothenburg was the right choice.
"I'd heard that, despite the fact that this is a peaceful and not very crowded city, it has almost everything you might expect from a large city. And it was true. People's expectations and values are different, but I literally like everything about here, even the cold winter! My personal experience is all good and I hope it will be even better in the upcoming years. I'm proud to be a Chalmers student. It could become the most amazing experience of my life. If you have the opportunity, then take it!"
External link:ChalmersThis article was created in collaboration with Chalmers, the University of Gothenburg and Göteborg & Co.
