Alongside his studies, he works as a Junior Data Specialist at AGF, where he has helped develop key digital solutions. Among other things, he is behind the football club’s user platform and a digital food-ordering system.

AGF is not a workplace one would typically associate with computer scientists, and the original job posting did not suggest that someone with his profile should apply. But Rasmus saw a unique opportunity.

“Actually, they were looking for a Business Intelligence Manager, but I was invited for an interview and was told that they liked the alternative way I had solved their case. So, in a way, I created my own position,” he explains and continues: “So even if a job doesn’t perfectly match your skills, I think you should still apply. Many companies could benefit from a computer scientist. In smaller companies that are not IT-specialized, you quickly get a lot of responsibility, and at the same time there is room to make mistakes and learn from them.”

In his role at AGF, decision-making processes are very short, and the high level of responsibility so early in his career, has given him a clear advantage as a computer scientist. In addition, the job comes with access to football matches and other fun events, which is, of course, also a bonus.

Focuses on solutions – even when studies are challenging

Rasmus became interested in studying computer science when he took IT during his time in the gymnasium (Danish high school).

“I am very motivated by finding solutions and bringing them to life. In computer science, you apply theory in practice, and it is easy to validate whether your solution works.”

In the first semesters of his bachelor’s degree, he found mathematics somewhat challenging.

“I think that in high school I was good at ‘cracking the code’ and generally did well without having to work too hard. That backfired in one of my first university exams, which didn’t go very well.”

After that, Rasmus took responsibility for his studies and started making use of the many academic support resources offered by the department.

“I realized it’s foolish not to use all the resources available. There are study cafés where you can ask very specific questions, you can contact your lecturer, and there are theoretical exercise classes. You just have to find the study method that works for you. The programme is toughest at the beginning, but if you stick with it, it pays off, and you can shape it around your own interests.”

He himself has a strong interest in system development with a focus on the user.

“Many people think computer science is just tough mathematics, but for me it has equally been about user studies and experimental system development.”

Plenty of opportunities

The most important aspect of Rasmus’ student life has been taking advantage of as many opportunities as possible. He hopes that future students at the Department of Computer Science will do the same.

Rasmus has made full use of everything student life at AU has to offer. He is a member of the student radio association, plays badminton with his study group, and often participates in the weekly Monday pub quiz at the Student House.

“I had no connection to Aarhus before I moved here at age 20 with a friend who was also starting university. Now I’ve really grown to love the city. The campus area is full of life, and there’s a club for every interest you can imagine.”

He also highlights the many networking events specifically organized for students at the Department of Computer Science.

“Aarhus is a city with quite a lot of IT companies that host many great events and competitions for students. These are really worth joining if you want to expand your network – and get free dinner.”

During his master’s programme, he also completed an exchange stay at Université Grenoble Alpes in France – an experience he highly recommends to others.

“It was an amazing experience, and I’m still in touch with many of the friends I made there.”

He adds that he would have liked to go on exchange already during his bachelor’s, if the opportunity had been available, and he is a bit envious of new students, as an exchange semester has since been added to the bachelor’s programme.

Rasmus is currently writing his thesis in post-quantum cryptography. He is investigating new methods of protecting data in a future where quantum computers may potentially break current RSA encryption based on prime factorization.

When he completes his degree in just over a month, a whole new world of opportunities will open up for Rasmus. In the longer term, he is looking abroad and aiming for a career in the aviation industry.