Is this programme right for you?

Name: Renae Gupta
From: USA
Studying: Geology

The research at the University and the courses made me feel confident that completing this programme would prepare me to conduct my own research with confidence and ability.

Why did you choose your programme?
– My professor from my Bachelor’s degree in NZ recommended Uppsala University, as top-level researchers are conducting various projects related to volcanology. After looking into the programme further, I also found a strong focus on enhancing a student’s ability to read, understand, and interpret modern scientific research and literature. The research at the University and the courses made me feel confident that completing this programme would prepare me to conduct my own research with confidence and ability.

What is it like to be an international student?
– Uppsala is an international hub and both professors and students come from all around the world. International students bond quickly over how unique and compelling the experience is. Everyone in Sweden speaks excellent English, so getting around the city is easy even when you first arrive. Uppsala University also offers free Swedish courses for students interested in learning and enhancing their experience here in Sweden.

What is the best thing about studying at Uppsala University?
– The researchers at Uppsala University create an atmosphere where you feel comfortable expressing ideas and questions about content in classes and personal interests. Many of the courses are designed with seminars and presentations, which allows you to converse with lecturers and students on a peer to peer level and gain confidence in expressing your ideas. I have also found that a lot of the research at the University cooperates with other universities and organisations, meaning a degree here opens up work and study opportunities in Sweden and many other places around the world.

How did you experience your first few days in Sweden?
– I arrived in Sweden a few weeks before classes started so that I could travel around and get a feel for Sweden. Transportation was accessible - trains and busses connect many cities, allowing easy travel to Stockholm or some of the nature reserves dotted around. One week before classes start, an orientation week is hosted by the University and the student nations. There are endless activities and events to help students connect and have fun.

Describe what a normal day is like for you.
– I start my day by biking to Geocentrum, which takes just 15 minutes from my student accommodation. During the end of summer and fall, I walk to the botanical gardens from Geocentrum in just 5 minutes where many of us would get together and have lunch on the lawn or walk in the park. After classes, I take some time to do some exercise in one of the many nature areas around the city. There are plenty of gyms to choose from in the winter as well as ice skating and skiing. At weekends I usually get together with friends and enjoy a fika or have a cheap beer at one of the student nations.

What is your best experience so far?
– The best experience so far has been seeing the northern lights in winter. There is an app that alerts you when they might be visible. If you are lucky, you can go to Uppsala Castle, Gamla Uppsala, or just watch them outside your building. Having a completely international group of people bundled up, standing outside in the freezing cold at two in the morning surrounded by dancing northern lights, is a breath-taking experience.

Spring 2022.