Around this time last year, I was working in IT with five years of experience, wondering what my next step would be. Today, I’m an Innovation and Technology Management (ITM) student, learning new things, traveling, and experiencing different cultures and it all started in Tartu.
My first moments here were anything but perfect. I got off the LUX bus at the wrong stop and found myself standing there confused and a little scared, juggling three heavy suitcases with no internet connection. A woman noticed me, came over, asked where I needed to go, helped with my bags, shared her hotspot so I could get online, helped me book a Bolt to my dorm, and even checked if I needed anything else.
That moment stayed with me. So come along with me as I share what life has looked like since I arrived here.
Why I Decided to Be Here
I had been planning my master’s for a while, but I always knew I didn’t want to stick to purely technical roles. I was more curious about the business side of technology. how decisions are made, how teams work together, and how ideas actually turn into something real.
I decided on Estonia after listening Tiksu to UniTartu (listen here), basically searching for a place with Wi-Fi in the woods. But of course, that wasn’t the only reason. It helped that I had the comforting thought that a country that gave us unicorns like Skype and Bolt would never run out of job opportunities, both while studying and after graduation.
Furthermore, Estonia’s calm and focused vibe really suited me, and when I found the Innovation and Technology Management program, it felt like the perfect mix of my engineering background and my growing interest in business and management.
From Orientation to Real Life
Soon after orientation, we had our first ITM Day organized by senior students. They showed us around the study building, explained how the program works, pointed out where professors’ offices are, and even introduced us to the collage cafeteria in the building.
They also introduced us to the study system here. Almost everything, including course registration, assignments, exam schedules, grades, and course results, is handled online through platforms like ÕIS and Moodle. Most communication with professors also happens there, which makes everything clear and easy to follow.
What to Expect in ITM
The ITM program (check it out here) is a balanced mix of management and technical subjects, with a strong focus on turning ideas and technology into business value. I have always been a night owl, and luckily my schedule did not force me to become an early riser. My earliest lessons were Python, Data Munging, and Estonian Language, which started at around 10:15. Most of my classes were on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Fridays, while the others gave me more free time. Some classes lasted three to four hours like Innovation Management, Business Analysis and Requirement Engineering, but they never felt boring because sessions were interactive and involved a lot of discussion and group work.
One thing that really surprised me was the exam and evaluation system. We are allowed to bring handwritten cheat sheets into exams, and practical understanding is valued much more than memorizing information. Marks are divided between projects, presentations, weekly quizzes, and the final exam, which makes learning feel more continuous and less stressful. Teamwork plays a very important role in the program. Professors here do not feel distant or unapproachable. They feel more like one of your classmates with more knowledge
Settling in and Social Life
During my initial days, I actively attended events, connected with new people, and made a conscious effort to immerse myself in my surroundings. I found a good Indian community, I even had the chance to show my little classical dance and celebrated Navratri. Finding Indian food in Tartu is little adventure, but the small grocery stores help with spices. Luckily, I’m not very picky about food, so I usually stick to simple meals like chicken curry and rice. Exploring Tartu food has been fun, but sharing dosa with my flat mates has been even better.
Mentorship, Work, and Professional Growth
University is not just about grades, strong support systems like mentorship programs, counselling services, student unions, and ESN activities make sure no student ever feels lost or alone. Through this mentorship and my part time job, I learned how student life and work life can exist together in Estonia. One thing I really appreciate is how student-friendly the work culture is. As long as studies are not affected, there are almost no limitations on work. My workplace has been very understanding, and I’m allowed to attend classes or join online lectures from the office when needed.
Lessons Learnt
Over time, things became overwhelming. I tried to do too much at once, balancing part time work, full time studies, and responsibilities as a student ambassador. Although I enjoyed all of it, poor planning led to stress and burnout. This phase taught me an important lesson about slowing down and prioritizing. Once I started focusing on one thing at a time, I gradually found my balance again.
Wrapping up my First Semester
Five months in Tartu pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a version of myself that’s more curious and confident. Almost everyone is connected to the university in some way, which makes life easier for new students. My first semester was not perfect, but it was meaningful. It taught me to adapt, plan, and grow as a student and as a person.
In the last five months, I have seen Tartu in three different forms. Green summer days, warm orange shades of autumn, and finally snow covered streets. Running toward the sunlight, eating lunch beside a bridge with feeding sparrows, and enjoying the little warmth winter offered made everyday life feel special. Despite the cold, I chose Estonia because it offers more than winter. I chose Estonia because it offers opportunity, balance, and a future worth building.
Cover Photo Credits: deltaschooltartu on Instagram (view profile here)
All images are the author’s own unless otherwise specified.
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