Boyd Peters

Name: Boyd Peters
Second-year Master's student

The program offers a common core that everyone follows and a large elective space, allowing for a high degree of customization. This flexibility has enabled me to delve deeper into computational methods, taking courses in machine learning, data compression, and high-performance computing, while also exploring biological subjects like biology of cancer and nuclear architecture.

During my bachelor’s in Nanobiology, I discovered a passion for programming. When faced with the decision for my master’s degree, I initially doubted between the MSc Nanobiology and the MSc Bioinformatics, both offered at the TU Delft. However, my participation in the TU Delft iGEM team showed me that I really enjoyed the multidisciplinary aspect of the Nanobiology program and did not want to focus purely on bioinformatics.

Choosing the MSc Nanobiology turned out to be an excellent fit for me. The program offers a common core that everyone follows and a large elective space, allowing for a high degree of customization. This flexibility has enabled me to delve deeper into computational methods, taking courses in machine learning, data compression, and high-performance computing, while also exploring biological subjects like biology of cancer and nuclear architecture. It has been fun to see how each of my peers follows their own interests. The small group size following the program fosters a sense of community and the atmosphere in the program is warm and positive. Moreover, as part of a joint degree program, I have attended courses in both Delft and Rotterdam. This exposes you to different environments, which has been fun and educational.

I love to learn and absorb information. You can find me reading books, or trying to make computer do what I want, even though they sometimes have a hard time listening. I also enjoy teaching and helping others understand topics. Moreover, last year I started sporting again a lot more at X, the TU Delft sporting centre, and this helps to clear up my mind and get some good exercise. Finally, I have been trying to pick up playing guitar again, but this is still a work in progress.

The quarterly system of the master’s allows for effective planning and time to gain a deeper understanding of a course’s content. Nevertheless, the programme does have a high tempo and juggling the academic commitments with extracurricular activities like committees, socials, sports, and relaxation can be challenging at times. It is just important to keep this in mind and take care of yourselves, but in the end it is worth it!

Since my childhood, I have always been curious and asking questions to try to understand how things work. During my studies, this curiosity has only deepened as I have realized how much still remains unknown. Hence, I see myself pursuing a PhD to do research and keep on learning. I can also see myself doing something with teaching as I find a lot of enjoyment in helping others understand topics. If it is not going to be a PhD, then you will probably see me doing something computational or software engineering related, preferably with a connection to biology.

Amidst the hectic pace of student life, it is easy to become consumed by presentations, deadlines, and projects. It is essential to take a moment and appreciate the privilege of learning and growing. So pause, take a deep breath, and savour the journey although it might not always be easy. Best of luck with your studies, and remember to enjoy the process!