Sandeep Katragada: Exchange with international students at the University of Klagenfurt

Alumni Sandeep Katragada has completed the PhD program “Interactive and Cognitive Environments (ICE)” at the Institute of Networked and Embedded Systems. Technical innovations and their journey from idea to market launch are his passion.

What originally attracted you to the University of Klagenfurt?
The Master’s degree in Information Technology attracted me to Klagenfurt in the first place. After graduating, I was interested in pursuing a doctorate and found out about the doctoral college “Interactive and Cognitive Environments (ICE)”. Suggestions from researchers and professors also motivated me to join ICE.

What unforgettable experience did you have during your studies?
The lively exchange with the various international students at the University of Klagenfurt.

When I think of Klagenfurt, I immediately think of… Serenity and peace.

Did you spend time abroad? Was that important from today’s point of view?
Klagenfurt was the first foreign city I got to visit. I will always cherish those memories. Later, I had the opportunity to visit many cities and, in the meantime, I have been to the University of Genoa, UPC Barcelona, TU Eindhoven and Queen Mary University London. By attending conferences all over the world I have been able to get to know many different countries and research groups.

What fascinates you most about your profession?
I find it very interesting to exchange ideas with other people and to see how they approach and view my research. In my profession, I need to be up to date with the innovations. Often, I get to know the ideas even before they become a product in the market. When I see a new Artificial Intelligence based device or app in the market, I am able to guess it’s working principle.

What has been your favourite experience in your professional career so far?
My favourite experience was attending my first conference and discussing my findings in the field of “object tracking”. At the beginning it was difficult to prepare and present my ideas in an understandable way, but with practice it has become easy for me. The difference between my first and last report is also pretty vast.

What was your favourite spot at the university during your studies?
My favourite spot was the lab. I tended to stay very late, often till 2 o’clock in the morning.