"My educational journey has been a real rollercoaster. I came to the University of Twente to study Computer Science because I enjoy programming and logical thinking. Then I realised I had a lot more to offer than just programming—I have a creative side I wanted to explore. So after some detours, I eventually switched to Creative Technology.
You learn to combine technology, design, and art to create smart solutions that make life easier, better, or more comfortable. Now I feel I have found my space. The freedom in this programme is exactly what I needed as my interests and skills evolved throughout the years. It's a broad study that allows you to find your path, and you aren't confined to a specific area that channels you down one way.
Balancing creativity and technical knowledge
In Creative Technology, you go through a wide range of subjects over three years, varying from engineering, designing, creativity and computing, which gives you a very broad foundation. So, you can go in many different directions after you graduate.
Besides, you need a good balance of creativity and programming knowledge, otherwise, you might feel out of place. Part of the programme involves computer science and electrical engineering. To grasp engineering concepts, you cover the basics of mathematics and physics. You also learn to draw more professionally and explore 3D modelling design using tools such as Fusion 360, SolidWorks, Blender, and Unity.
Moreover, you can ignite your creativity at the SmartXp lab, where you have access to laser cutters, 3D printers, soldering irons, microcontrollers, and electrical circuits—all the tools and materials you need. It's up to you how high you want to reach and what you want to design.
Learning about AI
It was awesome that they introduced an AI course to keep up with the latest technological developments. In this course, we had to design a prototype of an interactive system, and everyone got creative. Some fellow students used AI to help people learn sign language, while my friend and I took a more artistic approach.
We turned our bodies into percussion instruments using an AI-powered glove that produced different drum sounds depending on where we tapped our bodies. Basically, we trained an AI to recognise different hand movements and touches on our bodies, producing corresponding drum sounds through a computer. For example, tapping my right thigh would play a tom drum sound, while tapping my chest would simulate the sound of a crash cymbal.
Creativity in action
Not many programmes offer the practical opportunities we get: we learn by doing. One project that stood out to me was designing and realising an interactive installation in the Art, Impact & Technology module, which was displayed in the DesignLab on campus.
We created an installation focused on internationalisation, so people from different countries, backgrounds, and cultures could feel at home. They could step into a designated area, input their home country, and wear a heart rate monitor, which would generate a personalised animation. Their heart rate would determine the speed of the animation. This created a deeply immersive and intimate experience going beyond just visual and cultural aspects—it was an amazing experience!
Freedom to create
What I enjoy the most about the programme is the freedom and diversity it offers. On the one hand, you develop your technical skills in programming, electronics, digital media, and interaction design. On the other, you learn to create innovative products and services. You have complete freedom to share your ideas and show what you can come up with, and this leads to the development of truly unique and effective solutions to real-world issues.
It is a safe environment for people from all backgrounds. You meet students with completely different skills and perspectives, from those with a more technical skill set to artists, and even linguists. This is the perfect place for me to thrive."
