Jonna Resmark- Master Student in Cultural Anthropology

Name: Jonna Resmark
From: Göteborg, in western Sweden
Studies: The second year of the master's programme in Cultural Anthropology

Why did you choose this program?

-After deciding that I wanted to pursue a master's programme in Cultural Anthropology, I did some research and Uppsala University stood out to me for several reasons. I have some family living in the area and I already knew that Uppsala University is a well-regarded University. I also heard good things about the master's programme, in addition to that the students attending tend to be quite an international mix, a prospect that really appealed to me.

What did you do before you started studying here?

-I did my bachelor's at Gothenburg University and I was primary carer to a close relative for several years.

What is it like to study at Uppsala university?

-It’s great to be a student at Uppsala University. You meet so many interesting and amazing people from all different walks of life and parts of the world, fellow students, teachers and lecturers. Some of whom has become something I envisage as lifelong friends. One thing I also really like about studying at Uppsala University is that there are support networks put up if you’re struggling as a student. It could be either with your studies, or your mental or physical health. There is help available, you just have to reach out and ask. It makes you feel well looked after even when you have tough days.

What is a typical day like in your program?

-I’m not sure there is such a thing as a typical day in my program, a bit like anthropology in itself. It depends on where you are at, if you’re doing courses, fieldwork, an internship or thesis writing. It can differ a lot, therefore, it’s really nice that we have a joint seminar with all the master students in the programme once a month. That way we can all meet and support each other in real life, not just in a group chat.

What is typical for the Master’s program in Cultural Anthropology?

-That’s a difficult one too but I think the biggest typicality is that it’s quite a small master’s programme. Which consequently makes you get to know all of your fellow students, teachers, lecturers and people associated with the institution quite well. It makes the program feel quite familiar and safe in the best possible way.

What is it like to write a master thesis?

-I’m not going to lie, it’s really tough. But at the same time, it’s also really rewarding and quite fun. Basically, it’s a roller-coaster, something that you should be prepared for beforehand. However, I’m lucky that I am part of a group of students that are very supportive to one and other and together we help each other to get us through the tough days.

Tell us about student life in Uppsala!

-Uppsala is a very student-oriented city, and also from my perspective a smaller city, which I found appealing. The different student-nations are very active and provides another arena to connect with students, particularly students outside your own programme and discipline, as well as several sub-organizations directed to more specific interests. For example, I’ve joined a knitting and crochet club. Equally, if you’re not into joining the student oriented social life, Uppsala offers a rich and divers culture separate from the student life.

Three Quick Questions

What is your favorite place in Uppsala?

-That’s a difficult one! There are so many great cafés that I love, where you can have a fika with friends or sit and study for a while. But when I really need to clear my head, I tend to walk either around town or go to Hågadalen, a Nature reserve not far from Uppsala city center. Being out in the nature always helps me to recharge my batteries.

What is your goal with the program?

-At the moment, graduating is the main goal.

What will you be doing in five years?

-I hope that I will be working in a sector that will benefit from my degree in Cultural Anthropology.