Md Asif Mostafa wanted to become a researcher. His previous studies in physics in Bangladesh provided a strong foundation, and his interest in broadening his expertise led him to computer science as well. Asif wanted to combine his knowledge from both fields in the Master’s Degree Programme in High-Performance Computing with a specialisation in Physics.
I am Md Asif Mostafa from Bangladesh. My academic journey began with a bachelor’s degree in physics at the University of Dhaka, a very famous department where the famous physicist Satyendra Nath Bose was a professor. Albert Einstein himself wrote a recommendation letter for him to join the physics department at my undergraduate university and worked closely with him throughout his life. Therefore, I have a legacy behind studying physics in my department.
My goal was clear: I wanted to combine my background in both fields and eventually become a researcher abroad.
Broadening expertise in computer science and engineering
Physics has always been close to my heart, but I wanted to broaden my knowledge and skills. That is why I decided to pursue another bachelor's degree in computer science and engineering. My goal was clear: I wanted to combine my background in both fields and eventually become a researcher abroad.
When I started applying in 2024, I focused only on Finnish universities. My first acceptance came from LUT, and soon after, I was invited to an online interview at the University of Jyväskylä. Two professors interviewed me: one asked questions related to physics, and the other focused on computer science. The interview was supposed to last thirty minutes, but stretched to almost an hour.
Choosing with the heart: Physics came first
I had to choose whether I wanted to pursue the Computer Science track or the Physics specialisation in High-Performance Computing. Without hesitation, I chose Physics.
Even though I do not consider myself the smartest person, I have always loved Physics and wanted to keep it at the centre of my studies.
Hard work has finally paid off
When the admission results were announced, I also received a scholarship. That moment changed everything for me. Years of effort in building my profile and overcoming uncertainties finally paid off.
Now I am at JYU, studying for a Master’s Degree in High-Performance Computing with a specialisation in Physics, and also working as a Research Trainee in the very field I have always dreamed of.
It was not an easy journey, but it was the path that finally brought me to this point.
Read more: Master's Degree Programme in High-Performance Computing
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