If someone had told me three years ago that I'd be completing a master’s degree at a prestigious Finnish university, and even working there, I would have laughed it off. But here I am... Life has its surprises!
I’m Roopesh Shanmugasundaram, currently working as a Research Assistant at the Faculty of Information Technology. I’m originally from Chennai, India, a city with a population of 8.6 million, which is 3 million more than the whole of Finland!
Before moving to Jyväskylä, I worked as an Associate Consultant at a French-based IT company in Chennai, where my responsibilities primarily involved addressing application issues, with limited exposure to the business side of IT.
After some soul-searching, I realized that transitioning into business IT roles could enhance corporate visibility and offer easier access to managerial positions. However, my efforts were hindered by my limited business knowledge. This led me back to academia, where I decided to pursue a master’s programme that seamlessly combines IT and business.
Why Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥?
After researching and comparing various programmes, I was drawn to the Ä¢¹½Ö±²¥â€™s Master Degree Programme in Information System Sciences. The courses offered are not only highly relevant but also aligned with industry standards.
The programme is designed to bridge theory with real-world application, ensuring that students can effectively implement what they learn. The professors and course instructors are not only competent but also deeply understanding of students' needs, fostering a learning environment that encourages self-reliance while remaining approachable for guidance and support.
And why Jyväskylä region?
Another key factor in my decision to choose JYU was the Jyväskylä region itself.
Jyväskylä, located in central Finland, is a vibrant city with a strong student presence, making it easy to form friendships with people from all over the world. These lifelong connections can open doors to a wealth of opportunities, both personally and professionally.
I was also drawn to Jyväskylä for its peaceful atmosphere, which contrasts with the hustle and bustle of larger metropolitan areas. The city’s serene environment provides an ideal backdrop for focused study and reflection.
While job opportunities within the city may be more limited compared to larger cities, Jyväskylä offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, from outdoor sports to cultural events, ensuring a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
This unique combination of academic excellence and quality of life makes Jyväskylä an ideal place for students seeking both personal and professional growth.
FORTHEM mobility programme enhanced my academic experience
JYU provided me with an incredible opportunity to participate in an exchange programme at the University of Agder in Norway through a mobility programme by FORTHEM Alliance, which is a European University network, supported by the European Commission, bringing together nine European universities.
Though the programme was a short-term experience, it proved to be immensely valuable. It allowed me to collaborate with students from various European countries, broadening my cultural perspectives and enhancing my ability to work in diverse teams.
This exchange not only enriched my academic experience but also played a crucial role in shaping my future plans by providing me with insights into international academic and professional practices. It served as a stepping stone, opened new horizons and solidified my aspirations for a global career.
Friends through Local friendship programme
JYU’s Local Friendship Programme is an initiative designed to help master’s students connect with local residents, learn about Finnish culture, and practice the Finnish language.
Eager to immerse myself in the local culture, I signed up for the programme and was fortunate enough to be paired with a wonderful family here in Jyväskylä. They warmly welcomed me into their lives, introducing me to Finnish delicacies and inviting me to participate in traditional activities like ice fishing, horse racing, and more.
This experience not only deepened my understanding of Finnish culture but also led to the formation of a lifelong friendship that I will always cherish.
Meaningful work as a Research Assistant
The university's forward-thinking curriculum provided me with the essential knowledge and connections to excel in today’s competitive environment. These experiences were pivotal in securing my role as a Research Assistant at JYU, where I engage in exciting projects related to prototype and application development.
My work includes exploring cutting-edge topics such as Large Language Models (LLM), prompt engineering, containerization, orchestration, and 6G technologies. Collaborating with brilliant researchers and scholars has further deepened my understanding of innovative technology. I also have the opportunity to work with industry experts and professors from other Finnish universities.
I’m enthusiastic about both my projects and the groundbreaking technology emerging from our university, which is poised to significantly influence the technology landscape. This role not only allows me to apply the skills I gained during my studies but also positions me at the forefront of technological advancement.
Looking back, my journey at JYU has been transformative. The university has not only shaped my career but also enriched my life with meaningful relationships and experiences. I'm excited to keep exploring the dynamic world of technology and thankful for the strong foundation JYU has provided, shaping both my personal and professional growth.
