Is this programme right for you?

How did you choose your programme and what did you study before?
– My academic journey began with a Bachelor's in human resource management, where I developed a genuine curiosity for the dynamics between people and organisations. This made me want to move beyond the HR perspective and engage with the bigger structural and strategic questions that drive how companies operate. That's what drew me to the business and management Master's, specifically the organisation track, which felt like a natural next step from the foundation I'd built during my undergraduate years.

What is it like to be an international student?
– It is both exciting and challenging, as adjusting to a new culture and environment pushes you out of your comfort zone in ways you don't always anticipate. But that's also where much of the growth happens, and the connections you build with people from all over the world make the experience genuinely rewarding.

What is the best thing about studying at Uppsala University?
– What I appreciate most is the people. Everyone I've met is curious, driven, and ambitious, which helps me to stay motivated and keep growing. Beyond that, the city itself has a lot to offer, with its beautiful architecture, surrounding nature, and easy access to Stockholm.

How did you experience your first few days in Sweden?
– Since I grew up in the Netherlands, the cultural shift wasn't as drastic as it might be for others, but what truly struck me was the nature. There's a quiet, almost serene quality to the Swedish landscape that I hadn't quite experienced before, while the country still feels very modern and well-organised at the same time.

Describe what a normal day is like for you.
– A typical day usually revolves around university, whether that's attending lectures, working on assignments, or studying on my own. I try to get to the gym most days as well, since it helps me clear my head and stay energised. In the evenings I usually catch up with friends, which is a nice way to wind down after a full day.

What is something unique about your programme?
– What stands out to me is how varied the teaching style is. Rather than just sitting through lectures, you lead your own discussions, work in teams, and engage with the material in both small and large group settings. There is also a lot of personal responsibility involved, since a large part of the learning happens outside the classroom, which I think prepares you well for for your career.

How would you describe the relationship between you and your teachers at the university?
– It is quite open and informal, which makes it easy to ask questions and engage with them directly. I get the sense that they are genuinely invested in your development, whether that's academically or professionally. They push you to think critically and grow, but in a way that also leaves room to challenge their perspectives, which I really appreciate.

What is your reason for studying and your ultimate goal?
– My main motivation for studying is personal growth. I could have stopped at Bachelor's level, but the way a Master's challenges you and sharpens your critical thinking was exactly what drew me to continue. As for my ultimate goal, I am still figuring that out, but I am drawn to working in a strategic or advisory role.

Describe the student life!
– Student life here is really enjoyable. There is always something going on, whether through the student nations or student unions like Ekonomerna, so it is easy to get involved and meet people. My best experience so far has probably been a pub crawl with my classmates.

Three quick questions
What is your favourite place in Uppsala?
– It is sitting along the Fyrisån, especially when the weather is nice.

What is your favourite student tradition at Uppsala University?
– Valborg.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
– I hope to be working in a role where I can apply what I have learned, though I am still open to where that path leads.

Spring 2026

Why did you choose this programme?
– I completed my Bachelor’s degree in business and economics here in Uppsala, where I also took advanced courses in international relations and marketing. Even back then, I knew there was no other city I wanted to study in. During my Bachelor’s studies, I realised that my interest in economics is rooted in questions about people and strategy. When I compared the course content of different Master’s programmes, I concluded that Business and Management with a specialisation in Organisation was the best choice for me. The programme is social in nature and is largely built around discussions rather than individual study, which suits me very well.

What is the best thing about studying at Uppsala University?
– The incredible student life and the university’s rich history. Uppsala is clearly shaped by its identity as a university town, where everything feels designed and adapted for us students. The nations, unions, and associations ensure that there is something for everyone. The proximity to Stockholm is also an advantage, even if I make use of it less often than my parents would have liked.

What is the most challenging part?
– The hardest part has been getting used to the fact that there are not always clear right or wrong answers. At the Master’s level, the focus is more on analytical reflection and interpretation than during the Bachelor’s programme, which was often more concrete. This has led me and my classmates to develop understanding through discussion and the exchange of perspectives rather than memorising “correct answers.”

What are three things on your schedule this week?
– A seminar, chess club, and work at the nation.

Tell us about student life!
– In Uppsala’s rich student life, there truly is something for everyone, regardless of interests and preferences. This offers opportunities to broaden your network and gain experiences beyond your own field of study. The student unions have committees for everything from stocks to foreign policy, while the nations serve as natural meeting places for students, run by students. There is so much to do that you never have to feel bored for a single evening—as long as you have the time, energy, and motivation.

What is your goal with the programme?
– My goal is to be able to work with something I find interesting. Through the programme, I want to broaden my perspectives and develop my ability to understand and question how companies operate.

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to this programme?
– Be prepared for significantly more reading and a higher intensity throughout the courses. Expectations of you will be higher than before, but you will also enjoy the learning process much more thanks to a well-developed curriculum and highly engaged teachers. Make use of your classmates—they are your greatest asset in learning. Read, reflect, discuss, and revise, and everything will go great. You’ll have a lot of fun along the way.

Three quick questions
Favorite place in your student city?
– There are many, but the Botanical Garden on a warm spring day beats almost anything.

Where is the best place to study?
– I refuse to admit that, but “the cave” in Engelska Parken is a close second.

Where do you see yourself in five years?
– Hopefully working as some kind of strategy consultant, on assignment for an exciting company.

Spring 2026