Studying Abroad: Double the Education: Academia and Culture! Past Review
By Tami L (Literature, Culture, Media - MA, Colorado State University) for
Lund University: Lund - Direct Enrollment & Exchange
Living abroad is the best thing I have ever done in my life. It opens up your personal world in so many ways. It helps you become more confident and willing to try bigger challenges. It also teaches you so much about other cultures, which in return, helps you reflect on your own culture. You can make friends that will last a lifetime, and explore so many opportunities not available in America. Having lived in Korea as a teacher, and having studied in Sweden has made me want to pursue an international career. I can't recommend studying abroad enough! (General note: I am not doing study abroad through an American university. I applied directly to Lund, and will be graduating directly from Lund.)
Personal Information
| How much international exposure did you have prior to this program? | 6 months+ |
Review Your Program
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* Overall educational experience
Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc. |
Lund is very "student-friendly." Depending on the program, they give you options to re-take exams. The faculty is very relaxed and helpful. They also encourage your own freedom of studies. The main difference from an American University is that you study one subject at a time. In my degree, I will be taking only one class at a time, as opposed to the 3 to 5 you would take at a time in an American University. Therefore, less time will be spent in a classroom than what Americans are used to. |
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* Host Country Program Administration
On-site administration of your program |
I have been very impressed at how the University has supported foreign students. They helped get us to the University on the official "Arrival Day," helped us sign up for our Swedish registration number, and have been FANTASTIC in working with the U.S. Department of Education for us Americans who are studying with the support with student loans. |
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* Housing:
How satisfied were you with your living arrangements? |
Housing in Lund is a difficult situation. To be honest, it is the one downside of the University. The International Housing Office does not have enough rooms to provide for all international students, so many, many students have had to find housing on their own. Lund is not a very big town, so no matter where you live, it is not difficult to get to your classes. Most commonly, students live in "Corridor" rooms, where each student has a private bedroom and bathroom, but shared kitchen. All furniture was provided, but you should bring your own sheets and towels. |
| * Food: |
There are many small cafes and restaurants with all price ranges. In general, food and drinks can be quite expensive in Sweden, but it is very easy to find a falafel shop that doesn't hurt the wallet so much! |
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* Social & Cultural Integration:
How integrated did you feel with the local culture? |
Lund Universities encourage you to join "nations," which are an excellent way to meet other people and have activities to do. The nations also provide cheaper food and alcohol. Most nations have their own clubs and pubs. Nations also provide many activities such as baking, playing sports, music, etc. In addition to the nations, you can sign up for an International Mentor Group when you arrive. The mentor groups are a great way to meet other international students, and have some fun activities that help you get to know Lund and it's surroundings. |
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* Health Care:
How well were health issues addressed during the program? |
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| * Safety: |
To be honest, I haven't had any health problems since I have been here. However, as a Master's Student attending a Swedish University longer than a year, I will be covered the same as a Swedish citizen. The most common injury seems to be bike-related: everyone rides a bike in Lund! I have been provided with what to do if I have a health problem, so if the need arises, I will be able to find the help required. |
| If you could do it all over again would you choose the same program? |
Yes
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Finances
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* Money: How easily were you able to live on a student's budget?
(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost) |
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Language
| If applicable, to what degree did your living situation aid your language acquisition? |
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Direct Enrollment/Exchange
| * Did you study abroad through an exchange program or did you directly enroll in the foreign university? | Direct Enrollment |
Other Program Information
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* Where did you live?
Select all that apply |
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* Who did you live with?
Select all that apply |
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A Look Back
| * What do you know now that you wish you knew before going on this program? | If you love to meet people, this is a great place to come! The support system is wonderful, and there are many other international students to meet. Any student who is willing to live away from home should greatly enjoy themselves! |
