Interview with Aggelos Tsimouris

Why did you choose this particular program?

I chose the program because I have always had a particular interest in modern history due to its controversial and combative nature

What did your academic path look like before you started this program?

Before this program, I was enrolled in the four-year History bachelor's program at Ionian University in Corfu. So my academic direction didn't change by enrolling in this masters as history has remained a primary focus in my studies.

What has been the most fun and interesting part of your studies so far?

I think that the opportunity that we get in the 3rd semester to study in other departments or even other universities within Sweden or abroad is a fascinating one that allows the students the liberty to explore their academic interests further even in fields distant from history. Additionally, the opportunity for an internship is given which is something I didn't opt to do but I think it's beneficial for the students who already have found what they want to engage with in their future professional lives

What have you found to be the most challenging aspect of your studies?

The fact that sometimes, it felt that there wasn't as much guidance and feedback as I had hoped, specifically in regard to the final essays we had to submit in the mandatory courses.

How would you describe your experience of the difference between a bachelor’s and a master’s program?

The main difference is that Uppsala is a very student-oriented city in a way I think is rare to find in any other city. The context of Uppsala provides you as a student with a lot of opportunities to engage with whatever you might be interested in not only academically but also in regards to hobbies and social activities.

If you completed your bachelor’s degree at another university: What differences have you noticed between Uppsala University and your home university?

Another difference would be that Sweden has a very different academic culture at least compared to Greece. The familiarity that is cultivated between students and teachers allows us to engage with the ideas and topics discussed in a much more open way. Most of the courses are seminar oriented which means that the contents of the course are discussed both between the teacher and the students, but also between us students which is a very constructive process.

What skills have you developed during your time as a student in this program - both academic and those of everyday life?

This program requires a lot of written assignments in short frequency which in turn forces you as a student to be constantly engaged with your writing skills and the weaknesses that these might have. In my experience, this aspect of the program has really helped me improve my writing skills and develop them even further; as they say, practice makes perfect.
In terms of daily life, I would say that I really had to juggle a lot of tasks every week so time management became quite important and relevant in my everyday life, which is something that everyone has to consider when living in a city with as much variety as Uppsala.

Do you have any specific goals with your education? Which ones?

I'm really interested in continuing with my path in academia at some point in the not so distant future, but before that I would really like to experiment with other applications of history in the job market for example diplomacy is something that I've been considering for a long time.

Has the program met your expectations so far?

Although I haven't yet completed the program, with one semester remaining, I can confidently say that most of the goals outlined in the description of the program hold true. Furthermore, the opportunity you get as a student to participate in the student unions and the administrative organs of the university is a great opportunity for you to project your personal expectations of the program. In that way, the programs keep evolving and taking more appropriate shape, factoring in student feedback and expectations even in more passive ways, such as the frequent course evaluations that are very evidently heard and appreciated by the department.

What would you say to someone considering applying to one of the master’s programs at the Department of History at Uppsala University?

I would say that studying here is truly a unique experience and that if you're genuinely interested in the topic you will find the challenging nature of the program's structure really interesting and rewarding. Besides that, the opportunity to come in contact with others with similar academic interests will enhance the whole experience and sharpen your perspective on history as a field of knowledge.

What is the best part of studying at Uppsala University?

I would say that the best part is the student life, the opportunity to meet both native and international students who study a variety of different things broadens your horizons and adds to the quality of life during your studies. This is something that I gave little thought before coming here but turned out to be one of the things I appreciated the most.

Outside of your studies, what do you enjoy doing in Uppsala?

During the last academic year, I was active at Småland Nation which was a very nice experience. I was able to see the student traditions first hand be part of them which I enjoyed, I also got to meet some very nice people during my time there so working in a nation is something I definitely recommend.

Rapid fire:

• What is your favorite place in Uppsala or its surroundings?
  • By far the cathedral that overshadows all of the city center.
• Where is the best place to study?
  • Carolina Rediviva's 9th floor
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • Maybe in a PhD program