Interview with Oscar Kelly

Why did you choose this particular program?

I have an avid interest in history. I spend a lot of my free time reading, writing, and creating. I draw a lot of inspiration from history. It is a bottomless source of storytelling.

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

I completed a three year undergraduate course majoring in history with a minor in philosophy.

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

Socially, the programme has been fantastic. Travelling to a new country and experiencing the culture, language, and Swedish people has been fantastic. Equally, the university is very international so I have met people from all over the world. I have made friends from Greece to Australia. This has not only been thanks to my classes, but the "nations" and the activities the university and city has to offer.

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

Sweden can be a difficult country to move to, even as an EU citizen. Its bureaucracy is very challenging to interact with. Though, it is more than made up for by its public facilities, free education, and fantastic housing.

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

You are more independent. Because of this, it is more demanding of your discipline and time.

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

Uppsala is a very intimate university at Master's level. The classes are small, you are on a first-name basis with all professors. You are not just a number within an academic manufactory, as many other large universities can make you feel. The city is also a university-city. There are tens of thousands of students and yet you bump into your friends constantly throughout the campus and town.

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

I have certainly improved my time management and self-discipline. It is absolutely necessary when given the autonomy of a history Master's student at Uppsala.

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

My goal with this Master's was primarily to challenge myself in a new environment. Regardless of academic performance, I feel in many ways I have already achieved this. Now, it's a matter of pushing myself to achieve the best I can with my thesis. My career prospects and goals will be enhanced with a Master's thesis, but it was not my focus when entering the course.

Has the program met your expectations so far?

In many ways it has exceeded them!

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 go for it! If you are a Swedish resident, there is no risk involved at Uppsala. It's free, fun, social, and challenging. If you came from abroad like me, Uppsala is perfect for a foreign student looking for an international, university-town. The city and the university have plenty of secrets to uncover!

What is the best part of studying at Uppsala University?

The university is blended with the town and comes to life with student events every night! The nations are dotted throughout, and there's never a day something isn't going on.

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

The Nations are always fun. With activities and events during the day and bars and clubs at night!

Rapid fire:

• What is your favorite place in Uppsala or its surroundings?
  • The järnbron is a little, iron bridge along the river Fyris. During the spring and summer, you can look up at the Cathedral and into Uppsala City Centre. It's very pretty. During autumn, the surrounding trees colour the banks of the river and in Winter, the river freezes and the ducks waddle between the frozen shores.
• Where is the best place to study?
  • The history department itself is probably my favourite place. Though, you could probably choose a new location every day for you Master's thesis. All of the nations have cozy libraries and seating. I also like studying in different campuses with friends taking other programmes as a change of scenery.
• Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • Somewhere between Venus and Mars. Hopefully!

Intervju publicerad: 2024-12-19