These Iranian students tell us how to make the most of life at TU Delft.
As long as you can combat the unpredictable Dutch weather, TU Delft offers more opportunities for fun than one can imagine, say Sima Tarashioon, a PhD at Dimes and outdoor enthusiast whose latest adventure was paragliding, and Kianoush Souri, an MSc micro-electronics student who is now trying his hand at being a great podcaster.
What drew you to Delft?
Tarashioon: “I wanted to pursue my MSc abroad, but I wasn’t keen on the US or Canada, as they’re too far from home. When I applied for my MSc in 2007, one of TU Delft’s biggest attractions was that, unlike many universities in Europe, English is the medium of education.”
Souri: “One of my older brothers is pursuing his PhD here, while another is in the US. So, I applied to both countries. At the time, I wasn’t really sure about the academic structure here, but Delft seemed the stronger choice.”
How does doing a PhD/MSc in the Netherlands help in the long run?
Tarashioon: “Though universities in Iran are good with theoretical knowledge, there isn’t much interaction with industry. Here, things are very different; in fact, many companies even fund student projects and PhDs. Not only do we get a chance to understand how things work, there’s also a regular exchange of knowledge and infrastructure.”
Souri: “At the MSc level, there’s lots of interaction and collaboration between students and professors. Students are also encouraged to do projects with companies. Hands-on work always helps one understand the subject better.”
What are your interests outside the classroom?
Tarashioon: “I’ve always been fond of outdoor activities. A big advantage of being in Delft is that one can easily travel to other countries for camping or trekking. I’ve also tried sports like skydiving and bungee jumping.”
Souri: “As a member of the Iranian students association, I often work with the group on organising out-reach events. Now, we’re launching a Podcast channel. We did one sample recording and I really enjoyed the new role. The channel will air Iranian music, news, and have some fun stuff, too.”
What was the biggest adjustment problem you faced when first arriving here?
Tarashioon: “I know it’s a cliché, but it was the weather. Another thing that took some getting used to is how the Dutch segregate their professional and personal lives.”
Souri: “The wind and weather. Everybody said it would get better in my second year, but it’s worse now. I know what to expect and I feel depressed just thinking about it.”
Any survival tips for new Iranian students?
Tarashioon: “Make the most of living in a multi-cultural country. It’s always easier to make friends with people from your own country, but also step out and make friends with people from different parts of the world.”
Souri: “Coming to study here is a big financial investment, so don’t lose focus of your goals. Things are very different from a BSc, the deadlines tougher and expectations higher. Enjoy life, but always keep academics your first priority.”
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