From Chemical Engineering to Environmental Engineering: My journey to the University of Oulu

On the first day of my chemical engineering studies in India, a professor asked, “Why not computer science?”

My answer was simple but heartfelt: “Because I want to solve real-world problems and make a meaningful difference.”

That drive carried me through my bachelor's and into my role as a process engineer in the pharmaceutical industry. While I learned a lot about health manufacturing, I also saw firsthand how resource-intensive and unsustainable industrial processes can be. This experience reshaped my career direction. I didn’t want to just be part of the system — I wanted to change it.

Raised in a culture deeply rooted in sustainable living, I’ve always been surrounded by practices that respect nature. But with India’s rapidly growing population, the pressure on resources is immense. We need scalable, science-backed systems that support both people and the planet.

I realized I wanted to be part of that change. That’s when I discovered Environmental Engineering — not just as a career, but as a calling.

Why Finland? Why the University of Oulu?

I could’ve pursued my studies anywhere, but I chose Finland — a global leader in sustainability — and specifically the University of Oulu. Here, I found the perfect match between academic depth and real-world relevance.

The university offers three specializations:

• Industrial Environmental Engineering
• Sustainable Energy Systems
• Hydrology and Water Management

I chose Industrial Environmental Engineering, because it merges engineering with sustainability. I wanted to learn how to design smarter systems that reduce waste, conserve energy, and rethink industrial impact.

Studying in Finland has transformed me both as a student and as a person. The culture here doesn’t just talk about sustainability — it lives it. From cutting-edge waste management systems to everyday recycling habits, Finland’s commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals is inspiring.

One of the most eye-opening experiences was a course where we studied the resource usage of a simple household product — a hair iron — to understand product circularity. It was a perfect example of how environmental engineering applies to even the smallest parts of our lives.

From day one, I knew I made the right choice.

Nature must be preserved. But engineering must evolve to support human life sustainably. That’s the intersection where environmental engineering lives.

As a future environmental engineer, I want to be a bridge — connecting industries with sustainable technologies, enabling data-driven solutions, and designing systems that protect what matters most: our planet.

Whether it's optimizing energy systems, managing water responsibly, or driving circular economy principles in manufacturing — this field holds real power to create change.

A master’s in Environmental Engineering is not just a degree. It’s a decision to act — for the planet, for future generations, and for yourself.