Name: Behnam Khorramdel
Programme: Materials Science
Home country: Iran

Why did you choose TUT and this programme?
After I finished my bachelor studies in Metallurgical and Materials Engineering in my home country, I decided to continue my education in a broader area of material science and Materials Science programme and specifically Materials Research major in TUT with well-equipped labs and experienced staff was the only and best choice in Finland. Why Finland? I chose Finland because offers one of the best education systems in the world and a unique student life with NO tuition fees that is so important for international students who should pay for everyday expenses, accommodation etc.

What is the best part of your studies?
The best parts could be flexibility in choosing courses and doing exams. Separate from Major studies students can choose their Minor studies and Optional studies freely from Material's or even other departments in TUT according to their interests. What about exams? If you miss the first exam for any reason, still there is two more chance to attend exam. Fair enough? Also, during practical courses students have this chance to have demos, visit labs, see how that equipment is used and even work with them. It is really a good opportunity to understand better.

Why would you recommend TUT to prospective students?
TOAS provides very suitable homes for students with a reasonable price and free high speed Internet near campus area. By paying annual student membership fee you can eat subsidized lunch, use bus and train with 50% discount and finally use basic healthcare services provided by FSHS free of charge. Student life in Tampere cannot be better than this.

How has living in Finland been for you?
The first thing that comes to mind when somebody decides to go to Finland is long and freezing winters! But for me it was not that hard. Besides, in wintertime all students are busy with their studies. However, you will have wonderful summers in Finland and enough time to enjoy it. Living in Finland without knowing Finnish is not difficult because almost everyone knows English and tries to help you! Here I could meet students from different countries and work with them in groups. Therefore I can say living in Finland has been great for me.

Your own message to prospective students:
If you want to make a change in your life, experience a new academic life and love pure nature, a Nordic country like Finland could be a right choice.