When Pham Dinh Khai was looking for the perfect Master’s degree programme in chemistry, he didn’t make up his mind in an instant. On the contrary, he studied the course catalogues carefully, for months, to make sure that the programme was the right one. Ultimately the rankings of the University of Eastern Finland and our course selection convinced him, and a journey that actually started with a hint from a friend and love for chemistry, continued to Master’s studies and will now take him towards PhD.
The first time Khai heard about the UEF Master’s degree programme for Research Chemists was from his friend, who sent a link to the website and encouraged him to have a look. And Khai did give more than a look, when he eventually studied the programme curriculum for months to make sure that it matched his needs – exactly.
–I was convinced by the wide choice of major subject in chemistry, as there are four tracks that you can follow: organic, inorganic, physical and material chemistry. Also, the quality of the program is guaranteed as the UEF is ranked among the top 300 world leading universities.
Before applying, Khai graduated from Hanoi University of Mining and Geology with a major in chemical engineering, and worked as a chemical engineer for a big company in the oil and gas industry in South East Asia.
Despite having the opportunity to continue his career not only in his home country Vietnam but also in other countries, he wanted something more. To see the world, to meet new people – while also living a peaceful life in natural surroundings.
–Therefore Finland was the best choice for me. Here I can truly enjoy nature, and the international programme gives me a chance to study with 20 people of different nationalities and to explore the diverse European culture. I think it is extremely useful for me on the way to becoming an expert in this globalized world.
Lab life
Khai’s interest in chemistry is both a personal passion and a way to contribute to the positive development of his home country.
–I love chemistry and the way the compounds and substances react with each other. Moreover, we have seen nice development in the chemical research in Vietnam, but there is a shortage of experts. Along with economic growth, Vietnam is also facing a large number of issues such as pollution. Therefore for me, studying chemistry research is not only about developing myself but also about taking my home country forward.
With these goals in mind, Khai started his studies in Finland.
Everything is well organised here. You will get all the support you need to conduct your studies in an efficient way.
–The facilities and laboratories are equipped with modern tools and equipment. Therefore, the advanced laboratory courses were most interesting. They consist of 12 experimental lab works in all tracks of chemistry: organic, inorganic, physical and material chemistry. This course gives you the fundamental lab work skills for your future lab work in the department.
Organising his life around the studies didn’t cause too much trouble for Khai, either.
– In my batch, we had a chance to get a full or 80% tuition fee waiver based on our previous academic performance and our statement of purpose. Also the student housing is reasonably priced: the housing company Joensuun Elli is the best choice as they have a large variety of apartments in different locations.
Life in a middle-sized city by Finnish standards is peaceful, like Khai wanted – yet, there’s things to do.
–I really like that you have a chance to enjoy nature every day. I won’t say that it’s always easy to settle in a new country and sometimes you will surely feel lonely, but don’t be afraid. I recommend you to join some student groups and enjoy the events that the student associations organise.
Next step ‒ PhD
Khai has recently finished his Master’s studies and will soon start PhD studies.
–After these two years I realise how much my knowledge has broadened. I feel that I’m ready for the next step in my career in academia.
Khai started preparing for that move already during Master’s studies, when he got the chance to publish articles.
–I would say that during the ResChem programme you have time and support to publish if you have the motivation. I think it is important, if you want to pursue an academic career. Luckily there’s lots of support available, since you can get help from not only the staff but also senior students.
All in all, the careful consideration of programme choice turned into many different career options.
–I definitely feel that this programme provided a solid foundation for me to pursue a career in the chemistry industry, ranging from food, paper and coatings to oil and gas, as well as in academia as researcher or lecturer. Many doors are open.
