What is the study environment like?

The study environment was very good, and that made life a lot easier in China, where we were a bit isolated. Both Chinese students and Danish/international students were very nice and always ready to do something. We had movie nights, built our own gym, went out shopping and partying. Everyone was open and friendly, and it was very nice to have the opportunity to meet people from other master’s programs apart from our own.

What is it like to live in China?

I was surprised by how friendly and helpful everyone was. The country is much bigger and more modern than I expected, but there were still many things that were completely different from Denmark. One big challenge was all the bureaucracy, which could be exhausting. Many things were convenient and easy, but most people could not speak English, which could be a problem sometimes.

What do you think about the physical environment of SDC?
The biggest challenge for me was the dorm, as it was primitive compared to what I was used to. Without a kitchen, we had to either be very creative with our meals or rely on the canteen food three times a day. I invented many weird ways of cooking since I got tired of the canteen food every day. The bathroom facilities in the dorm were also challenging, but I eventually adapted to them. I was very happy about having a small room to myself that I didn’t have to share, so that was where I had my privacy. This personal space was especially important, given that the constant presence of people could be overwhelming at times.

What is the social life like?

The social life was very fun. We often went out for dinner in smaller groups or took trips around China. We also had game nights, movie nights, and gym sessions where we would socialize. We went to Huairo every weekend for shopping and, most weekends, also into the center of Beijing, where there were more options and parties.

What did you do in your spare time?

I studied a lot since the Chinese study approach could be more demanding than the Danish. Apart from this, I went out with people from other master’s programs and also spent a lot of my time in the gym or swimming area. We played many games and were very active in our spare time as well. Many hours were also spent at the T Star Café on the campus.

Where did you work on your thesis project and what did you gain from it?

I did my master’s with Jens Nyengaard’s group from Aarhus University, which was located in Skejby, Aarhus. I was very happy to be there since I learned a lot and gained many new skills within neuroscience, ex vivo imaging, and biochemistry.

How has your time at SDC/your MSc programme impacted your career?

I think having a mixed degree that is both international and technical/biological has given me a broader profile within the field. This is especially true for neuroimaging, as I’m working as a Research Scientist in nuclear imaging, focusing on both in vivo and ex vivo work.

What would you wish you had known before applying to an SDC programme?

I would have liked to know more about the balance between the biological and technical aspects of the program. I was a bit surprised when I found out there was more focus on the technical and neuroimaging aspects. Coming from a background in Biochemistry, I had expected more emphasis on this.

Would you recommend others to choose the programme?

Yes, I would recommend it if you are interested in a broader field, especially if you are pursuing a career on an international level. It can be challenging to pinpoint the specific areas where your profile fits in, given the broad nature of the degree and its many different career options.