Our alumna: Sarah Pulikottil Alex, Europhotonics
The best part of my studies in Tampere was the balance between the coursework with active research opportunities.
How did you choose to study in this programme and at Tampere University?
I did my masters in Photonics at Tampere University as part of the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master program, Europhotonics. My proclivity for physics and the interest in the science of light blossomed into a strong passion for pursuing Photonics. During my journey in the field of optics and photonics in the MSc program, I have been especially drawn towards the field of lasers and the immense application potential it holds in diverse areas. I did my first semester at Aix-Marseille University, France, second at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany, and third at Tampere University. Tampere University offered extensive scope for research, while also covering a wide spectrum of courses in its curriculum. The Tampere University courses for laser studies and application were the most interesting part for me. It made me realize my aspiration to be a practitioner in the field of Photonics.
What was best in your studies?
The best part of my studies in Tampere was the balance between the coursework with active research opportunities. The coursework is structured with continuous tutorial and assignment sessions along with regular lectures making the whole process efficient. We could also be involved in research projects along with our studies to get exposure to cutting-edge technology in the domain. Having all the required resources offered by the university, ranging from the library facilities to personal help from the professors made learning interesting. The overall approach of executing the coursework with a complete balance made Tampere my favorite among the other universities I had the opportunity to study during my program.
What was challenging in your studies?
Taking the lessons online during COVID time proved to be the challenging part of my studies. Being in Tampere as a student and not able to experience the university completely was an unfortunate situation. This also had an impact on the coursework for labs and other hands-on session. Partial access to the university for some courses itself helped us to boost our studies and having regular access to the facilities at the university.
What is your current work?
I am currently doing my PhD at Technische Universität Wien, Austria and working on specialty fibers utilizing ultrafast lasers.
How did your studies benefit your career?
This master’s program has taught me to contribute and be involved in active research working to innovate and create new applications or devices catering to the real-world needs for a better tomorrow. Pursuing a master's through the Erasmus Mundus program has helped me hone my skills and develop an in-depth knowledge in the domain. It served as a steppingstone to experience and learn different interesting areas in the field of Photonics.
Do you have a nice story to share about your studies?
Choosing Tampere in the joint Erasmus Mundus master’s program was the best decision. The Europhotonics program provided me the liberty to explore, learn, and stimulate my intellectual skills and put them to work and Tampere University was one of the universities where I could inculcate them. Apart from the academic exposure and amazing campus, the student community in Tampere offers a great opportunity to meet people from different cultures and plans different activities throughout the year to keep everyone connected. Finland is known for its breathtaking nature and its mystic beauty, ranging from vast green forests and lakes to chasing Auroras, offers an unparalleled nature experience that will leave you in awe.