Is this programme right for you?

Name: Udesh Fernando
From: Sri Lanka

My goal is to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development, especially in contexts where social justice and environmental resilience intersect.

How did you choose your programme?
– This is my second Master's degree, as my academic background is in International Relations, and I am an alumnus of the University of London. I also worked in civil society organisations in Sri Lanka for over 12 years. I chose my programme because I want to expand my professional and academic horizons. I was drawn to interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability. I wanted something that combined theory with practical engagement, and Sweden’s reputation for progressive environmental thinking and sustainability made Uppsala University a perfect fit.

What is it like to be an international student?
– It is exciting and eye-opening! Of course, it comes with challenges—like adapting to a new academic culture and sometimes missing home—but the diversity of perspectives, the welcoming community, and the opportunity to grow personally and professionally make it all worth it. You constantly learn, not just from the classroom but from the people around you and the warm community of Uppsala.

What is the best thing about studying at Uppsala University?
– The Uppsala experience is based on a lot of independence. There's a strong emphasis on critical thinking, and the teachers are approachable and supportive. Study methods in my department are more oriented towards co-learning which is great. Plus, Uppsala’s student life is so vibrant and unique that way with a lot of focus on personal empowerment.

Was there anything difficult or surprising when starting your studies at Uppsala University?
– Autonomy in what and how you study is something that surprised me. Lectures not being mandatory meant that the personal choice is valued in the system. But I made the most of it attending almost all lectures with very few missed ones.

Name three things you are doing this week!
I also got the opportunity to work for CEMUS this spring which is wonderful. I am going on a hike with some friends this weekend. I am also planning to go on a field trip up north to Kiruna.

What is your reason for studying, or your ultimate goal?
– My goal is to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development, especially in contexts where social justice and environmental resilience intersect. My work has always been around community-led development so I am gaining fresh insights with the course in improving interventions. I hope to bridge academic knowledge with grassroots action—both in Sweden and back in Sri Lanka. I also have ambition to pursue a PhD in sustainable development.

Describe the student life!
– Student life in Uppsala is special—it’s full of tradition, creativity, and connection. There’re so many events happening every week here. The best thing for me is the nature around us. Literally there is a forest and green patches in every direction. Apart from that I am also in the process of establishing an NGO with some like minded people here in Uppsala and that is progressing smoothly.

Two quick questions:
What is your favourite place in Uppsala?
– I have so many favourite places. The Castle and my star location are the Årike Fyris hill.

Where is the best place to study?
– I love the EBC Library, Carolina Redeviva and the CEMUS library in my department.

Spring 2025