ERASMUS MUNDUS JOINT MASTER in Intelligent Field Robotic Systems

I completed my summer internship at the Autonomous Systems Lab, ETH Zurich. This incredible opportunity was made possible by the rigorous courses and practical lab exercises offered through the IFROS master's program. IFROS provides students with the essential skills and expertise to make meaningful contributions to the robotics industry, both within the European Union and on a global scale. I sincerely hope the funding is renewed, as it plays a vital role in empowering aspiring individuals like me—those with ambitious dreams but limited resources—to achieve their potential and drive innovation in this critical field.

One of the most rewarding moments was working on my hands-on project during the second semester. Collaborating with classmates from diverse backgrounds brought fresh perspectives and fostered creative problem-solving. Weekly progress meetings and constructive feedback from faculty greatly enhanced the experience. This process allowed me to apply theoretical concepts to real-world challenges. Successfully programming and testing a robot for

each project was an unforgettable and deeply fulfilling experience.

One of the opportunities that IFRoS provides is the ability to conduct your research at various labs and companies. I had the chance to work at LARICS at the University of Zagreb, where I researched on drone swarms, both in simulations and actual hardware. I worked with Crazyflie drones, which are popular in swarm robotics for their innovative design and open source software.

With IFRoS you can pursue projects that generally interest you wherever you choose.

This is Mohsin Kabir from Bangladesh. Recently I have graduated from the IFRoS Masters program. The thing I have loved so much about this program is the diverse community,I have made friends from all over the world. Also, I have learned so much about robotics and intelligence systems. Moreover, living and studying in Girona and Budapest has been a fantastic experience for all of us. Lastly, for the future students, my advice is to embrace all the opportunities and advantages that this program offers to you.

Coming from India, it was my first time leaving home and I was nervous but when I joined the IFRoS program something amazing happened… I found a new family! IFRoS is not just a robotics program, it’s about applying what you have learned in real world projects, solving complex problems and working with cutting edge technologies. In Girona, I found myself strengthening my grasp in robotics while Budapest provided me to further enhance my skills through hands-on projects.

So if you’re looking for more than just a degree, a community that feels like home, a foundation that sets you up for a career… IFRoS is the place for you!

When I stepped into the IFROS program back in September 2022, I had no idea I was on the cusp of a life-changing adventure. It wasn't just about shifting gears from being a mechanical enthusiast to becoming a robotics expert; it was about the heartwarming journey that transformed my entire outlook on life. This experience opened my eyes to the beautiful tapestry of cultures around the globe, teaching me the value of connections that grow deep enough to feel like family. But there's more; it ignited a fierce passion within me that culminated in my master's thesis, focusing on a field that now defines my aspirations-motion planning for agricultural robots. As I navigate through this journey, my heart is filled with gratitude for the life-altering experiences and the unbreakable friendships formed along the way. This program wasn't merely an educational pursuit; it was a voyage of personal enlightenment, changing my life in the most unexpected and beautiful ways.

Working and learning alongside people from diverse backgrounds has not only broadened my cultural perspectives but also enhanced my expertise in robotics, making me a better robotist. It has allowed me to forge friendships worldwide, and immerse myself in a global community. Pursuing my goal, I chose "Semantics-based Multi-robot Search and Exploration" as my thesis topic, conducted at LARICS Laboratory at the University of Zagreb, a place that perfectly aligns with my passion for multi-UAV systems."

The IFRoS program has blessed me with numerous unforgettable experiences that I had never encountered before. I was fortunate to have a wonderful group of friends who supported me not only academically but also in my personal life. The moments spent collaborating on group projects or lab work are particularly dear to me. During these times, I felt part of a large family composed of individuals from diverse countries and backgrounds.