What Muhammad says about the Master's in Machine Learning, Systems and Control

Muhammad from Pakistan

Can you tell us a little bit about your background?

"I am from Islamabad, Pakistan. I have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and a Master's in Mechatronics Engineering. During my former Master's, I had some fundamental courses in the Machine Learning domain that intrigued me to pursue my professional career in the field. After being in the field, learning to devise machine learning and computer vision algorithms for various sectors, I realised the imperativeness of studying further in a honing and intellectual milieu."

Why did you choose Lund University and why did this particular programme appeal to you?

"Selecting a University to pursue advanced education and to invest the next couple of years of your life in is not an easy task. My priority was to opt for a cultivating environment to be an innovative protégé. From Bluetooth to facial recognition technology, Lund University has always aspired to novelty. Machine Learning, Systems and Control is an interdisciplinary programme having a unique blend of artificial intelligence and control systems studies. I found this programme cohesive and precise to industrial job market needs. The ensemble of control system theory, systems dynamics and machine learning are unique - it prepares you to understand industrial process variables, conventional and modern control systems and ways to use the data for tackling tasks using machine learning. In a nutshell, it checked all the boxes for my goals to pursue a Master's degree."

What do you think of the teaching style and the way of studying here?

"I can say confidently that my expectations are met or even surpassed by the quality and flexibility of education here at Lund. Sweden's education system, as well as working lifestyle, believes in work-life balance and individual wellness. The courses' layout encourages collaborative learning that makes the studies fun. Assignments’ deadlines are rational. Lecturers and teaching assistants are super friendly and responsive to guide you throughout a course and even beyond. For instance, I once emailed our Programme Director for some guidance on my career path and possible internship opportunities, and I was amazed by their detailed response with almost every possible opportunity."

Have you been able to gain any practical experience during your studies so far?

"Definitely! Practical exposure is equally as important as theoretical knowledge in any field. The lab work for each subject helps to polish students' hands-on calibre. Although I haven't had an internship opportunity, I am looking forward to having a summer job during the summer vacations and Lund University encourages interested students by organising ample seminars and career fairs to guide them through. If one is interested in pitching an idea and having a start-up, VentureLab (by Lund University) is always ready to nourish entrepreneurs."

Have you had any opportunities for networking within the programme?

"First of all, the collection of students in this programme is well put together. My classmates bear diverse backgrounds such as: having mathematical, electrical engineering, computer science and various other credentials, coming from different countries and bringing superlative cognition to the programme. Learning together in such a consortium is on its own a great way to have promising prospects. Apart from that, during various career fairs, one can establish networks in companies and find possible future employers."

What it is like to be an international student at Lund University and how international is your programme?

"Generally, the ratio of international students is high in this programme – a great blend! It has been a great experience being an international student with a welcoming and considerate environment."

What is studying in Sweden like compared to studying in other countries that you have studied in?

"I am fortunate enough to have studied in reputed institutes throughout my educational career, but Lund University has a special place due to its international prestige, studies approach and sensitivity to students' career prospects. The first noticeable difference is that in Pakistan, in order to pass a course, passing a final exam is mandatory. Here, it's mostly optional. Secondly, assignments are comprehensive and corresponding feedbacks are detail-oriented at Lund. Finally, the learning process is set to be collaborative rather than competitive."

How do you like living in Sweden?

"Sweden is one of the most innovative, environment-friendly and gender-neutral countries. The efforts put in to establish an unbiased society towards all genders, religions and races are commendable. The transportation system is yet another impressive infrastructure. There are frequent busses and trains to travel to or commute between cities. Walking or riding a bicycle are both feasible and secure options in Lund. While the general aura in Sweden is introverted, you always feel welcomed and supported whenever and wherever needed."

What are you planning to do after your studies?

"I envision being a profound contributor to Industry-4.1 and autonomous systems evolution. After graduation, I am looking forward to resuming my professional career in Computer Vision and AI by utilizing the enhanced skills I will acquire from this programme. Another possibility is pursuing a PhD after some time, but in the immediate future, I am eager to practice my revamped skills in the industry."

Want to learn more about Muhammad's thoughts on the programme? Check out his blog post:

'Studying Machine Learning, Systems and Control Master’s Programme at Lund University'