When I first started my Master's degree in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Jyväskylä, I thought most of my time would be spent writing code, training models, and looking at numbers. I was excited about that, of course, but I soon learned that studying AI is much more than programming.
For me, coming from a Computer Science background in Bangladesh, starting my studies in Finland was also a big personal change. Everything felt new at first: the university, the learning style, the people, and even the way classes were organized. But little by little, I started to feel that I had made the right choice.
Understanding AI in a new way
I chose Artificial Intelligence because I wanted to understand what happens behind the technologies we use every day. During my bachelor's studies, I worked with programming, web development, and machine learning, and I also did a thesis on deep learning. These experiences made me want to go deeper into the AI.
At JYU, I have studied different sides of AI and computer science. Some courses are more technical, while others make me think about how technology works in real situations. I have worked with topics such as deep learning, semantic technologies, simulation, cloud services, and cognitive computing.
Studying different areas of AI has made me realize how much there is still to explore. Sometimes I can build a model and get it to work, but understanding why the model gives a certain result is a completely different part of the learning process.
The programme has taught me that AI is not only about making models work, but also about understanding the ideas behind them, solving problems, and thinking about how they can be used in real situations.
Studying at JYU is not just sitting in a classroom
One thing I really like about studying at JYU is that learning does not always happen through traditional lectures. There are assignments, projects, discussions, group work, and independent tasks.
A typical study week can look very different depending on the courses. Some days I may spend hours reading and working on an assignment. On another day, I may be working with classmates on a project or trying to understand a difficult concept on my own.
Independent learning is a big part of my studies. At first, I found this a little difficult. I was used to having a clear structure and knowing exactly what I needed to study. Here, I have learned to plan my own time and take responsibility for my learning.
There have also been moments when I felt completely stuck. A piece of code would not work; an assignment would take much longer than expected, or a topic would simply not make sense. But those moments taught me patience. The feeling when something finally works after hours of trying is honestly one of my favorite parts of studying.
Another thing I appreciate about studying at JYU is the support from the teachers. They are approachable and willing to help when I have questions or difficulties. At the same time, they encourage us to think and find solutions ourselves. I feel that this gives me a good balance between support and independence.
What I have gained beyond knowledge
My studies at JYU have given me more than technical skills. I have become better at solving problems, working independently, communicating with people from different backgrounds, and managing my time.
I have also learned that it is okay not to know everything. In AI, there is always something new to learn. Instead of being afraid of that, I now see it as part of the journey.
The biggest surprise for me has been how much my studies have changed the way I think. I no longer look at AI only as a technology that can do impressive things. I also think about how it should be used, who it affects, and how we can make it safer and more useful for people.
That is what makes my studies at JYU special to me. I came here hoping to become better at AI. I am leaving each semester not only with more knowledge, but also with a different way of looking at the world.
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