Why Sweden?
‘I’ve travelled a lot in the past, and four years ago I cycled through Sweden during the summer. I thought it was such a beautiful country. Education is also very affordable, which is a big plus. In the north, education is good and relatively cheap, while in the south it is either poor or expensive and private. Here, education is both high quality and free. For a Dutch student, that sounds like music to the ears.’
What is the education like there?
‘Everything here is incredibly relaxed. When you come from the Netherlands to Sweden, everything suddenly feels much more laid-back. Deadlines are not strict, and you get more than two chances to resit exams. They also do not give grades, it is simply ‘pass’ or ‘fail’. Overall, it is a very flexible system. You are expected to take responsibility for your own education.’
What about your fellow students?
‘Students here are much more reserved, not like what you are used to in Enschede. When I tell Swedish students stories about my time at UT, it sounds like a fairytale to them. Normally, international students struggle to adapt to student life in another country, but here it almost seems to be the other way around.’ ‘In Enschede, we all lived close together and would turn the living room into a techno party on any random evening. For students here, that is unthinkable.’
Most striking difference?
‘The calmness and the space. Compared to the Netherlands, that really took some getting used to. If you walk outside at night, even on a Friday, you might not see anyone. It feels very open, with lots of nature around you. That gives you space and much less disturbance from others.’
Best experience so far?
‘We rented a mountain cabin with friends in the north of Sweden. It was right in the middle of winter, so there was lots of snow and it was freezing. We spent the whole weekend playing games, having drinks, and even going for a swim. It was really cosy, and you get to know the people around you much better.’
What are your plans for the future?
‘I have a trip to Norway planned, my sister is studying there. I also want to do some hiking in the mountains. And a trip to Poland is already on the agenda.’
Are you studying abroad and would you like to share your story? Please send an email to [email protected].
