In this edition of our alumni blog, we have the pleasure of speaking with Serge Pacome Bosson, an inspiring international alumni from Ivory Coast. Serge is currently pursuing his Doctoral programme in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology at the University of West Bohemia. Let's explore his experiences, thoughts, and insights about studying and living in Czechia.
What project are you currently working on, and what are your main activities?
Serge: I'm working on developing new algorithms for detecting and predicting faults that may occur during the online operation of traction motor drives. I'm also involved in developing advanced control algorithms for these drives using artificial intelligence. These drives are essential components of modern trains, tramways and electric locomotives. The designed algorithms are implemented in embedded systems based on electronic devices such as microcontrollers, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and systems-on-a-chip (SoC). These new algorithms are, therefore, intended to be integrated into these public rail transports to improve safety, efficiency, driving comfort and energy savings.
Did you have enough opportunities to improve yourself in the desired field of study?
Serge: Yes, I have had sufficient opportunities to improve my skills and knowledge. Thanks to my colleagues, academic staff, laboratory equipment from the University of West Bohemia, and available research databases for discovery and access to journal articles and conference proceedings.
What does your workday as a PhD student look like?
Serge: During my working day as a PhD student, my main task is to design control and diagnostic models for traction motor drives using software tools on my laptop and then to go to the laboratory to implement these models in embedded systems and test them in real-time with laboratory equipment (electric motors, power converters, etc.). Once the models have been validated, I return to my office to write reports on the results of these experiments, which will be published in journals and presented at international conferences of which I have participated in two prestigious ones: 31st IEEE International Symposium on Industrial Electronics 2022 in the USA, and 49th Annual Conference of the IEEE Industrial Electronics Society IECON 2023 in Singapore. Also, when I started my doctoral studies, I took courses in accordance with my individual study plan. I also taught international Erasmus students in the field of electrical engineering.
What are your plans after graduation?
Serge: I enjoy working in research and development (R&D) and participating in international projects and cooperation. Currently, in addition to my PhD studies, I work as an R&D engineer in the RICE laboratory at the University of West Bohemia, where we focus on artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms. Therefore, after my PhD studies, I would like to stay in Czechia and continue working for the University of West Bohemia, where I have already started working on some exciting projects. Moreover, the atmosphere is very pleasant with the other team members, with whom I have excellent relations.
Do you think that Czechia can offer enough work opportunities for international graduates? And would you recommend it as a place to stay, live, work, or start a family?
Serge: Yes, Czechia can offer enough work opportunities for international graduates, with many local and international companies based here. Our faculty has many strategic partners in the fields of electrical engineering and information technology. It organizes open days that can be useful to fresh graduates in their job search. The University of West Bohemia also has a career centre to help graduates to find employment.
The Pilsen region, where I live, is very interesting. The region boasts some magnificent castles (e.g. Kozel Castle, Kašperk Castle, etc.) that are very attractive to tourists, as well as zoological and botanical gardens in Plzeň city. I highly recommend Czechia as a place to stay, live, work, and even start a family. The cost of living in Czechia is very affordable.
How did you spend your free time in Czechia?
Serge: I found a lot of new friends who helped me with accommodation, travel, and transportation. I also take yoga classes and go to the gym with my colleagues. I like to go to the theatre to see operas, musicals and concerts. Finally, I like to take short trips around Czechia to visit interesting places (e.g., Průhonice Park, Šumava, Konopiště, etc.).
Are there any Czech movies, artists, or foods you have grown fond of in Czechia? If so, which ones and why?
Serge: Certainly! I've developed a fondness for various aspects of Czech culture during my stay in Czechia. I enjoy listening to Czech music, particularly the works of Czech artist Hana Zagorová. Additionally, my favourite Czech word is "KNEDLíKY"[1] because it was my first meal when I arrived in Czechia. As for Czech food, I've grown to love "RIZOTO"[2] because rice is my favourite food in my home country. 
What would be the best three things about studying and living in Czechia?
Serge: The advantage of studying in Czechia is the cost of living, which is very affordable for students. The best thing about living in Czechia is that it is a tranquil country where, after 10 pm, nearly all restaurants and other open spaces are closed, allowing families to rest well, compared to other European cities I visited. The last thing about studying and living in Czechia is that it is a safe country.
Serge Pacome Bosson's journey in Czechia is a testament to the diverse and enriching experiences that international graduates can find here. We thank Serge for sharing his insights, and we hope his story inspires current and future students to explore the boundless opportunities that Czechia offers for personal and academic growth. If you have any questions for Serge or would like to share your alumni story, feel free to contact us.
[1] Knedlíky = dumplings, a side dish you typically eat with meat and a creamy sauce or steamed cabbage.
[2] Rizoto is a typical Czech dish based on cooked rice with carrot, corn and peas, topped with grated Edam cheese.