Master's student Marco Zennaro: ”I would definitely recommend the EMJM programme”

Name: Marco Zennaro
Age: 22
From: Italy
Programme: Erasmus Mundus Joint Master in Imaging, the Immersive Imaging Track

Why did you choose to study the EMJM programme?

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Artificial Intelligence from Italy. However, Italy is not particularly strong in research and technology, so I preferred to pursue my master’s abroad. I also wanted the experience of living on my own, and studying in another country gave me the perfect opportunity to do that.

I researched the Erasmus Mundus programmes and was genuinely happy to be accepted into this particular one, since it allows me to study in two different countries. While I enjoyed studying artificial intelligence, I am even more interested in areas related to imaging. This programme was therefore a great choice for me for that reason as well.

And now you are in your first year, studying in Sundsvall, Sweden. What are your experiences so far?

They are good, and I really enjoy Sweden. Sundsvall is a walkable city and I live close to my friends, which makes it easy to meet up without needing to plan far in advance. Coming from a big city there aren't as many activities in the city as I am used to. Fortunately, the student life is quite active, and we can gather in the students pub. The hardest thing for me so far has been getting used to the fact that in Sweden, the sun sets at around 3 PM at this time of year.

And what do you think about Mid Sweden University?

I really enjoy the university because it has a close-knit nature and fewer number of students. This gives me better opportunities to connect with the professors, which I find very valuable. I also appreciate the many practical projects we get to work on here. We usually don't do as many practical projects in Italy, and I find practical experience during the studies very valuable. Another big advantage is that the university is located very close to where I live.

Is there any specific subject or course that you think has been the most interesting so far?

Yes, I would say the most interesting course so far has been Computer Graphic. I’m considering exploring that subject in more depth in the future.

Could you describe a typical week as a student?

A typical week varies quite a lot. Some weeks we have only one or two lectures and spend the rest of the time on self-study; other weeks are busier, with lectures almost every day. On days when I’m at the university, I usually stay until the evening and I really enjoy studying in the library. On days without lectures, I often stay at home to study.

What do you do in your spare time?

I mostly meet up with friends – both other EMJM students and international students. We often gather at someone’s place to hang out and have fun together. I also enjoy going to the gym.

During the second year of the programme you will be located in Finland at Tampere University. How do you feel about that?

I look forward to it. The first semester we will focus on continuing the studies and going deeper into topics we were only introduced to here. And the final semester will be dedicated to the master’s thesis.

And what are your plans when the programme ends?

I’m not completely sure yet, but I know what I am interested in. At the moment, I don’t think I will continue studying after my master’s degree. I would prefer to start working, perhaps at a company, and I don’t think I see myself returning to Italy for work. The Nordic countries appeal to me more, and I would say Sweden and Finland are strong candidates in the future.

What would you like to say to other students who are thinking of applying to the programme?

I would definitely recommend the programme. So far, it has been a very positive experience. We have close contact with the organisers and they were extremely available and helpful during the enrolment process. This made everything much easier for me as a student, and that I would say is a big advantage of this programme.

I also recommend EMJM both for the courses offered and for the quality of the university. The professors are very well prepared and knowledgeable in their fields. And although Sweden is cold, it’s absolutely manageable once you learn how to dress properly, so don’t let the weather scare you away.

I recommend EMJM both for the courses offered and for the quality of the university. The professors are very well prepared and knowledgeable in their fields.