Author: Guestblogger (Page 1 of 19)

As my first class at Uppsala University has gotten closer and closer, my nerves have skyrocketed. I thought I was ready for this! I sorted out my permits. I sat at my computer, ready for the moment I could register for my classes. I packed my bags, got on a plane and worked out my housing. I followed all the steps like clockwork, yet I still feel underprepared for what’s to come.

But, maybe that’s the point. No matter how much we prepare, no matter how many checklist items we tick off, moving countries and starting something new is always a leap into the unknown. So, maybe the question isn’t so much “Am I ready?”, but actually “How do I find my footing now that I’m here?”

When Plans Fall Apart

When I first received my acceptance email from Uppsala Universitet, I made a promise to myself. This time, I’d have everything planned out. I’d have housing lined up for the day I arrived, and I’d give myself plenty of time to settle into life in Uppsala, before all the craziness began. I signed a rental contract by the end of the week, and researched everything I possibly could about what to expect once I arrived: Skatterverket appointments, getting a Bank ID, and signing up for Swedish language courses.

But when I arrived, the housing situation was wildly different from what I expected, and I was told that my personnummer would take a minimum of 6-8 weeks to arrive. Instead of having time to experience the calm before the storm, I’m now four weeks into living in Uppsala, and I’ve ended up on a friend’s floor for the week, and still with no personnummer, bank or access to public healthcare in sight.

Now, this wasn’t my plan at all. I’ve felt destabilised, disorganised, and totally unprepared for the beginning of my program. I’ve had to lean on the people around me from day 1, and learn to constantly adapt to any situation that is thrown at me. Time that I’d dedicated to exploring Sweden has instead been filled with trips to local charity shops for essential items, and hunching over my laptop, trying to jump through the endless bureaucratic hoops.

Moving overseas comes with so many unpredictable moments, and curveballs thrown at you when you least expect them. What I’m slowly learning is that being prepared for what’s next is less about having every detail under your control, and more about learning to roll with the punches. It’s about learning to bend with the unexpected rather than breaking under it.

The Power of Vulnerability

There’s one major silver lining I’ve found in dealing with difficult situations early on – you end up showing your vulnerabilities much earlier than you expect. I’m moving into my new place on Monday, the first day of classes, while my partner is still in another country. So, with my tail between my legs, I’ve had to approach people in my class and ask for help with the move.

Asking for help is something I’ve always struggled with, and now I’m doing it with friends I’ve known for less than a week. It’s been scary, awkward and honestly quite humbling. But letting people in so quickly has strengthened these new connections so much. I can already feel my support network beginning to take root, something I didn’t expect to find so soon in Uppsala.

There’s one lesson in particular that has always stuck with me: relationships need vulnerability to grow. You can be the most reliable friend, the best listener, and the person that others can lean on – but if you never show your own cracks, you’re holding those friendships at arm’s length. Because of my housing situation, I’ve had to overcome those creeping thoughts about “being a burden” and get honest really quickly. And maybe that’s not such a bad way to begin this journey!

Reflections on “Readiness”

I used to think readiness meant ticking every box in advance, with housing secured, courses registered, and a detailed timeline in place. But the past few weeks have taught me a very different lesson. Readiness isn’t always about having your ducks in a row (for anyone who doesn’t know this idiom, it means having everything in order) before you start a new chapter. Sometimes, it only starts to take shape once you’ve already begun. Every small win, from finding my way around Uppsala, laughing with my classmates, and even figuring out the laundry reservation system has been proof that I’m working it out as I go.

As a person with ADHD, I’m all too familiar with the routine of finding a new interest, over-planning and preparing for it, then becoming so burnt out from that preparation that I either lose motivation entirely, or struggle to adapt when things don’t go as planned. I’m sure most of us have been that person that bought nice running shoes before we’d even run our first mile. Or maybe you collected balls of colourful yarn simply because of that one crafty TikToker who showed up on your For You page during Covid-19. In my experience, the habits that stuck were the ones where I just threw myself into it, and took things one step at a time. That’s the mentality I’m bringing into my next chapter in Uppsala.

So, I guess the important question is, “Am I open to figuring things out along the way?”. Because I’m learning that readiness isn’t about having everything under control. It’s about letting yourself start anyway, and trusting that each step, no matter how slow, is still a step forward.

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What I keep realising is that nobody begins a journey like this feeling entirely prepared. We are all learning as we go, carrying our own mix of doubts and hopes, worries and goals. That’s what makes the experience so universal; I guarantee that if you talk to those around you in these first few weeks, you’ll find that everyone is experiencing the same uncertainties beneath the surface.

So, embrace the uncertainty and give yourself time to grow. And if you’re sitting there, like me, wondering if you’re ready… I think the fact that you’ve shown up is proof enough.

Picture this: By day, you’re attending lectures at your dream university or studying at one of the prettiest libraries you’ve seen; at night, you’re going from one nation to another, meeting so many cool and interesting people from all over the world. Everything’s new and exhilarating; everything’s exactly how you dreamed it would be. That is, until you come across a random reel on Instagram that reminds you of your best friend, or you pass by a dog taking a walk with its owner and you’re reminded of your own pet back home. Maybe you’re coming home to your studio apartment and you find yourself missing the noise and chaotic energy that comes with living with your big family. Some people find it hard to put a name to this feeling, while others are able to identify it more quickly: homesickness. 

Although finding housing, setting up a bank account, and learning a new language can be some of the most trying challenges as an international student, dealing with homesickness can sometimes prove to be more difficult than any of the aforementioned. It also comes in different forms. For me, it was subtle at first until it hit hardest after the Christmas holidays. I’m not quite sure if the lingering sense of yearning ever completely goes away, but I, for sure, have learned to deal with it better over time. With that, here are some tips that could also help you if you’re dealing with homesickness:

1: Establish a routine and pick up hobbies
Whether it’s going to the gym, having crafternoons, or working at a nation, it always helps to keep yourself busy and your mind preoccupied with something else that makes you happy! This isn’t just to distract yourself from thoughts of home; it can also be a way to establish some semblance of familiarity that may be hard to find when you’re in a new, dynamic environment. It can be something completely new, that way it’ll require you to invest more time in engaging in it or working towards being better at it. It can also be something that requires minimal effort but still makes you happy either way, like watching your comfort show or rereading your favorite book.

2: Schedule (virtual) catch up sessions and be more intentional with how you spend time with people from back home
There’s no denying that the spatiotemporal distance between Uppsala and your home country entails limitations to the bonding activities you can do with your loved ones from back home. This highlights the importance of putting a bit more effort than usual to maintain the bonds that you already have in your life. The easiest way to do this is by scheduling regular calls with friends and family no matter how busy you are. You could also do virtual activities together like having a book club, streaming a movie together, holding PowerPoint parties, or even just keeping each other company while you’re studying or doing chores.

3: Find your community
While it’s important to maintain the existing relationships you already have with people from back home, it’s equally important to recognize that there will always be room for new people in your life. Finding your people may be tricky at first, but the key is to just keep socializing and eventually you’ll find your way to the right people. Whether it’s your fellow students in your programme, the people in your nation, or a community of people from the same country as you, having a home away from home and learning to lean on that support system will get you through feelings of loneliness and homesickness.

4: Journal or talk to someone about your feelings
Letting your thoughts out through writing or verbalizing is a good way to clear your mind. It’s important to not bottle up your feelings because doing so will only make you feel heavier. While it’s good to keep yourself distracted and preoccupied to avoid the feelings of homesickness, sometimes it’s also helpful to face the feelings and take a few minutes to process them with a friend, a counsellor/psychologist (check out the Student Health Service page for more information), or on your own by journaling.

5: Spend time outside
Although staying in bed or in your room all day can be cozy, there comes a point that it can feel isolating. When that happens, take a walk! Bask in the sun or go to your favorite cafe and treat yourself with good coffee or a pastry. Make plans regardless how big or small so that you always have something to look forward to and get excited about.

6: Be kind to yourself
You can be grateful for the opportunity to study at a great university and live in a beautiful country while still getting sad every once in a while and experiencing homesickness. Your feelings are valid and it’s important to remember that some days will be tougher than others, but the fact that you’re still choosing to step out of your comfort zone is something to celebrate and be proud of!

Homesickness is a very common feeling for international students to experience. With that, know that you are not alone if ever you’re going through this. Hopefully, these tips could give you ideas on how to remedy the feeling. Also, make sure to follow @studyatuu on Instagram for more tips and to see what initiatives/activities you can join to keep you preoccupied!

As an Australian who’s soaked up more than her fair share of sun, sand and saltwater, I was ready for a drastic change when I accepted my offer from Uppsala University! For months now, I’ve pictured the snowy winters, sprawling landscapes and cozy coffee dates with friends.

But moving abroad is about experiencing more than just the idyllic moments. It’s navigating the unexpected twists and turns, laughing through the tough times and opening yourself up to a world of unfamiliarity. My first few weeks in Sweden have been full of surprises that have left me excited, confused, and most of all, ready for this new adventure!

Here are some of the biggest culture shocks I’ve experienced during my first few weeks in Sweden. Hopefully they’ll help make your own move here a little smoother!

Grocery Stores

You don’t realise how important the familiarity of a grocery store is until you’re in a new country, with no idea what or where anything is. The layout feels unfamiliar, and you still can’t find the milk, no matter how hard you look! Walking into a Swedish supermarket for the first time felt like searching for a needle in a haystack. It took me eight laps of the entire store to find the one label I recognised – my biggest kitchen comfort item, Barilla genovese pesto.

At first, it was overwhelming trying to Google-translate every long and complicated label I came across just to tick “flour” off my list. But it’s also been so fun to discover new go-to snacks, and swap out ingredients in my favourite recipes to things that are actually available. Cooking has become even more of a creative outlet, and getting to know my local grocery aisles has been an easy way to feel right at home. Just keep in mind that food prices are quite high in Sweden, so planning your week’s meals in advance may cut down the costs!

Endless Summers

I knew about the long, dark winters, but I definitely didn’t prepare for the summer days to last from before 4am until almost 11pm! I thought we got a lot of sun in Australia, but here it feels like the days never end! Multiple times in the first few weeks, I’ve been reading or watching shows with the rays of the sunset streaming through the windows, only to look up and realise it’s almost 3am.

I’ve been lucky to move into an apartment with some thick blackout curtains, but they might be one of your first long-term investments in Uppsala. Even with them, you might find yourself getting creative with your bedtime routines (sunset lamps, closing the curtains earlier), just to make sure you get your 8 hours!

On the upside, all this daylight means you can explore the city and surrounding areas without feeling rushed. And the best part? It leaves you plenty of time for long fikas in the sun with all your new friends and classmates!

Rulebook Culture

I’ve learnt pretty quickly that Sweden loves a system full of unspoken (and spoken) rules. In comparison to the “she’ll be right” flexibility of Australia, this has definitely been one of the bigger culture shocks for me to adapt to! From having a list of rules in my rental contract – including quiet hours and number of dinner guests! – to sorting recycling into 7 different categories, the rules can be pretty comprehensive through your new life here.

You’ll likely experience this in full force when you apply for your personnummer after arriving. There’s a long list of specific documents you’ll need, and a clear step-by-step process that must be followed in order to receive that number, set up your BankID and apply for student loans!

While it may feel a little overwhelming to begin with, you’ll notice very quickly how much this structure helps things run smoothly, keeps public spaces clean and makes expectations clear from the get go. Give yourself a little time to adjust, and soon you’ll be the one reminding newcomers to book their laundry room slots!

Temperatures

After years of 40°C summers in Australia, I never expected a 22°C day in Uppsala to be what made me think, “Maybe today’s an indoor day. It’s just TOO hot outside!” But the difference isn’t just the number on the weather app. It’s the intensity of the sun in an old stone town that seems to hold on to every bit of heat. It’s the lack of breeze and shade, and the houses built for plummeting winter temperatures. And it’s the adjustment of looking at that 22°C on your phone and knowing that that means light, flowy clothes, not a jumper and jeans!

When you start packing for your move, don’t skip the summer clothes just because you’re focused on preparing for winter. Some light, breathable outfits will be your best friend on sunny days. You’ll thank yourself when the heat and humidity catch you off guard!

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Moving to a new place comes with a whirlwind of surprises, challenges and unexpected moments. Settling into Uppsala has already thrown a million curveballs at me – from getting lost in supermarkets to spending way too long scratching my head by the recycling bins – but every single one has been part of the adventure. Each surprise has taught me something about life and culture in Sweden, and made me feel more and more connected to my new home.

So, when you arrive in Sweden, give yourself permission to experience those learning curves, and remind yourself that you’re not expected to know everything straight away. Be open to new experiences, embrace the challenges, and buy those blackout curtains for your bedroom!

If you’ve already made it to Sweden, what has surprised you most so far? I’d love to hear your stories!

When I applied to become a student at Uppsala University, there were some specific days I was especially looking forward to. The magical singing from Lucia, Ekonomikumparken being alive and watching some boats on the Fyrius River to celebrate Valborg , were all really fun.

But one day stood out for me: making floral crowns and dancing around a pole like a frog; do I need to say more?! Apart from the movie ‘midsommar’, everything looked wholesome and I couldn’t wait to celebrate it. Some long magical days and everyone in a good vibe, that’s what life is about, right?

Midsommar is a celebration to welcome the arrival of summer and honour the summer solstice, the longest day of the year. There was one thing that I was a bit concerned about: what if I can’t find Swedish friends to celebrate it at their summerhouse? But don’t worry, I decided to stay in Uppsala with one of my best friend to really experience the midsommar in our town. And honestly, this didn’t disappoint!

There are many places where you could celebrate! This includes learning the dance from “Små grodorna”, making flower crowns and spending time with your family or friends. The first activity I did, and a very important one was: making a flower crown. Forumtorget (in Uppsala center) organized a free event to make them. It takes place the day before the big day. With their materials and help, we made beautiful creations.

On Midsommar itself, I had a bit of choice stress, as there are many places to go. Luckily they have different opening hours, so a bike to go from one place to another comes in handy! One tip: celebrating midsommar is also all about having a picnic, so don’t forget your snacks and a towel!

Some places you could celebrate;

• Disagården in Gamla Uppsala
• Hospitalsträdgården, Ulleråker
• Trekanten, Vattholma
• Kopphagen, Länna

Together with my friend, we decided to go to Gamla Uppsala.  It was very nice to celebrate it there as it feels so authentic!  A lot of dancing happened, but don’t worry, they explained what you needed to do, and it was really fun!  In the end, we felt like real Swedish people!

Afterwards, we came across other friends and decided to have a BBQ, this was a perfect ending to the day!

Tip: If you are not tired yet and want more dancing, you can find fun events on Facebook!

And, if you are celebrating close to a lake, bring your swimming wear!

Moving abroad comes with the inevitable question: What on earth should I pack? There are already plenty of great packing lists for international students online, so this is by no means an exhaustive guide. This is more of a personal take, things I wish someone had told me before moving specifically to Uppsala. So think of it as your unofficial, mildly chaotic, Uppsala-specific packing survival guide.

Must-Bring Essentials

The Jacket Dilemma
Let’s start off with a hot take: if you already own a really thick, high-quality winter jacket, bring it. The super-warm kind that can handle sub-zero wind and snow is worth packing, especially since buying a brand-new one in Sweden can be very expensive. But as for all the other types of outerwear (waterproof jackets, windbreakers, lighter coats), you can find them easily and affordably in second-hand stores once you’re here. Uppsala has amazing thrift shops that carry solid outdoor gear for a fraction of the price. It’s only the big winter investment piece that I was truly glad I didn’t have to buy again here. But there are different schools of thought when it comes to this so don’t come for me. Of course, some people swear by buying everything here, so take this with a pinch of salt.

A Few Summer Clothes 
It’s tempting to pack only sweaters and coats when you’re moving to Sweden, but don’t forget to throw in a few summer pieces! August and September can be surprisingly warm, and if you show up with only pullovers, you’ll absolutely melt during your first outdoor picnic or campus event.

Formalwear: Yes, You’ll Need It
Sweden may be laid-back most days, but don’t be fooled: Uppsala has some very formal traditions, especially when it comes to gasques (student dinner parties) and university balls. Whether you’re here for one semester or a full degree, you’re likely to attend at least a couple. Bring either one ball dress (elegant but practical) or one suit (which you can dress up or down depending on the event). And regardless of what you choose, pack one pair of formal shoes or heels, just one is enough, so go for something versatile and comfortable enough to survive dancing, stairs, and cobblestones.

A Card That Works Everywhere
Sweden is basically a cash-free society. Whether you’re hopping on a bus or buying a cinnamon bun at a bakery, almost everyone pays by card or with apps like Swish, most places won’t even accept cash. But you’ll only get access to Swish once you open a Swedish bank account, which can take a while thanks to all the bureaucratic steps involved. In the meantime, make sure to bring an international card that has low or no foreign transaction fees. And let your bank know you’ll be abroad! Otherwise, they might flag your card for suspicious activity and block it.

Cultural Comforts From Home
This is personal, but I can’t recommend it enough: bringing a piece of home with you is a game-changer. Just be strategic about what to pack now and what can wait. Sweden has everything you need, but it’s those little personal things from home that make the biggest difference on tough days. (And maybe at a cultural night where we can all share a piece of home together!) Here are a few of my personal staples:

• Essential spices and go-to ingredients (as long as they’re allowed through customs)
• Cultural clothes, for events or just to feel connected to home
• Small decorations, maybe a traditional scarf, a photo frame, or something handmade. They make my space feel warmer, and they really do lift my spirits when I’m missing home.

Just keep an eye on your luggage weight! If you’re short on space when moving, bring the essentials first. You can stock up if you go back home or ask your family to bring things if they visit.

Medicine & Prescriptions
Bring enough of your prescription meds to last until you’re registered in the Swedish healthcare system (which takes some time). Also, carry the actual prescription or a doctor’s note, just in case customs have questions.

Pictures to Decorate
Photos of your loved ones, your favorite view back home, or your pets, they’re weightless and powerful. You’ll thank yourself when your walls start to feel like your walls.

A Router 
If you’re going to be living in a student room provided by the Housing Office, make sure to bring a router. Internet access is included in the rent, but you’ll often need your own router to actually connect to Wi-Fi. You can buy one in Sweden, of course, but electronics here tend to be more expensive than back home. If you already have a spare router or can get a cheap one before you move, bring it with you and thank yourself later.

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Bonus: What Not to Bring

These are likely pretty intuitive, but for anyone who needs to hear it, here is what you can leave behind:

Too Many Books
Books are heavy. If you have favorite novels or religious texts, bring them, otherwise, go digital or wait till you’re settled.

Bulky Kitchen Items
Pots, pans, blenders: not only too heavy but also very easy to find once you arrive. Your accommodation may already provide some kitchen basics, and secondhand shops or Facebook groups are great for stocking up affordably.

Statement Clothing You Rarely Wear
Coming from someone who adores statement items, I say this with a heavy heart: it’s just not worth it. Most of your day-to-day life in Sweden will call for neutral, weather-friendly, and versatile layers. Save space for pieces that can be dressed up or down. Bring your signature top or unique jacket if it sparks joy, but leave the rest for later visits home.

Too Many Bags or Purses
A backpack, a durable tote, and a small going-out bag are all you really need. Anything beyond that just takes up space in your tiny student room. The same goes for footwear!

Gloves (Trust Me on This One)
If I could go back in time, I would leave my cute leather gloves, knit mittens, and those little touchscreen-friendly ones at home. The gloves I ended up using here are a different species entirely, designed for survival not aesthetics. They’re thick, insulated, and made to actually protect from wind, snow, and sub-zero air. Now I know that every glove I’ve ever owned before moving here was just decorative.

Cash
As mentioned before, Sweden is one of the most cashless countries in the world. After 10 months here, I couldn’t tell you what a Swedish bill looks like if my life depended on it. So save yourself the trouble and don’t waste money on conversion fees, you probably won’t ever need cash. (The only exception being when I bought a bike at a flea market right after arriving, though I paid in euros.)

Huge Toiletries Stockpile
Once again, these items are heavy and can be easily found in Sweden. Pack only the essentials for your first day, then head out to explore local shops and discover your new favorite products in your new home!

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The Bottom Line?
Keep it simple, pack smart, and trust that Sweden will have everything you need. With just the essentials and a few comforting pieces of home, you’re all set for an amazing adventure!

When I started my journey as a Master’s student at Uppsala University, I had a clear timeline in mind. I expected to graduate within the standard two-year timeframe, like most students. But life does not always go according to plan. I am writing this blog post because I have chosen to extend my enrolment, which means I will complete my studies in the Fall.

At first, I was hesitant to make this decision. There’s a subtle pressure on students to stay on track, as if extending your studies or taking a break means you have failed in some way. But reality is more nuanced, and I have come to the realization that extending my program is in my best interest, academically and personally. Here’s why:

Research Takes Time
My thesis project turned out to be more time intensive than I had anticipated. As a biology student, my thesis has involved quite a bit of lab work, specifically microscopic analysis. Unfortunately, my sensitive eyes make it a little difficult for me to work as efficiently as I could. By giving myself more time, I have been able to approach my lab work with less stress and more focus. I am no longer rushing to meet a deadline at the expense of the quality of my thesis or my wellbeing, and I believe my thesis will be stronger because of it.

Supportive Supervisors
I am so appreciative of the understanding and flexibility shown by supervisors when I brought up the idea of extending my program. I was met with encouragement and support rather than judgment, which made this decision easier for me. I was able to work out a plan with my supervisor that allowed me to continue my thesis project with the time and resources I needed.

Being open and communicative was key. If you’re in a similar situation, I encourage you to talk to your supervisor or program coordinator early because they arere here to help, and you are definitely not the first student to take this path.

Prioritizing Mental Health
Studying in Sweden has highlighted the importance of balance. Swedes are good at taking things at a sustainable pace, and that mindset has helped me feel more comfortable with the idea of adjusting my timeline. Trying to cram my education into a tight schedule wasn’t doing me any favors. I needed space for my research and well being and extending my studies has given me the breathing room I need to avoid burnout.

Final Thoughts
If you’re considering extending your studies, know that it’s okay. It might even be the smartest and most self-compassionate choice you make. Everyone’s academic journey is different, and that’s not something to fear.

I’m still working on my thesis, still exploring the beautiful city of Uppsala, and still learning every day. And while this wasn’t the timeline I originally imagined, it’s the right one for me.

One of the most exciting parts of moving to a new country is having your own space and making it a home away from home. On the other hand, it can also be stressful actually looking for a comfortable, affordable, and safe place to live in when the area and even the housing system is foreign to you. Read on if you’re at this point of preparing for your big move to Uppsala as we compiled tips on how to find housing in Uppsala and how to make your new place feel more like home!

Uppsala University Housing Office

• If you’re a non-EU international student at Uppsala University, you get a housing guarantee as long as you apply and accept your offer from the university housing office on time. These rooms/apartments are furnished so you don’t need to worry about buying and moving your own furniture. Check out their website for more information: UU Housing Office website

Studentboet

• The Studentboet website details rules and regulations on housing contracts as well as tips on how and where to find housing in Uppsala. It also lists openings for available accommodation in the city that students can sign up for.

Blocket

• Blocket is a Swedish website where you can find listings for secondhand rental contracts.

Uppsala Bostadsförmedling

• You can also register in the Uppsala Housing Queue, which requires a fee of SEK305 per year. Listings are posted on their website where you can also express your interest in renting. Offers are given based on the number of queue days you have compared to others who also expressed their interest in the available accommodation.

Heimstaden

• Heimstaden is a property management company that is one of the biggest providers of student accommodation in Uppsala, particularly in the famous Flogsta area. Through their website, you can search for both apartments and student accommodation and express your interest in the listings available.

Nation Housing

• You can also get a room from one of the student nations in Uppsala, but you would need to be a member of said nation and sign up for the nations housing queue to get a chance to be offered a room. Note that not all nations have the same system for signing up to be a part of their housing queue. Getting accommodation from a nation may also be more difficult for new students as getting an offer also depends on how many housing points you already have (usually based on how long you have been a member of the nation and if you are an officer of the nation) compared to others who also signed up for the queue.

Other important sites

• Accommodation – Finding a home in Uppsala
• Find housing in Uppsala

Important tips on making your room/apartment into a home

1. Bring things/decorations that remind you of home! For me, this included polaroid/printed photos, postcards, fairy lights, and a scented candle that had a particular Filipino Christmas aroma.
2. For the late spring to summer season, it’s helpful to buy blackout curtains as it can get very bright and the daytime can get very long too. For winter, try to make your room as bright as possible through fairy lights or lamps as there are usually only a few hours of daylight during this time.
3. Keep your space clean and orderly. While doing chores may not be the most fun part of living alone, regular cleaning is a necessity to keep your new home cozy  and comfortable.
4. For those living in corridor rooms, be transparent and practice open, clear communication with corridormates on keeping the shared spaces clean and orderly. Remember to do so respectfully too!

If you have any more questions about housing, please do not hesitate to contact undergraduate@uu.se or masterprogrammes@uu.se. Good luck and see you in Uppsala!

Ever since I applied to Uppsala University, Valborg kept coming up whenever people were talking about what makes Uppsala so special. The vibe I got was: “Winter may be brutal, but Valborg makes up for it!” So, naturally, when I arrived, I immediately asked some senior students what it was all about. The response left me a little stunned: apparently, Valborg celebrations can stretch from one day to however many you want, and people celebrated by partying like there was no tomorrow (think non-stop drinking). Suddenly, all the excitement I had built up started to deflate. I thought to myself, “Okay, maybe this isn’t quite for me,” and I felt a little bit of disappointment.

Fast forward to spring, and now that I’ve lived through my first Valborg, I can wholeheartedly say: it was incredible! A true celebration for anyone who loves joy, togetherness, and a good dose of festivity.

Coming from a crowded city myself, I found it heartwarming to see Uppsala so alive. The normally quiet streets were buzzing with students, families, and visitors. People gathered in parks with food, music, and laughter. And as someone who doesn’t drink, I never once felt like I was missing out. I felt part of something joyful and uniquely Swedish.

It’s certainly true, Valborg brings with it plenty of student parties and bubbly breakfasts. And if that’s your thing, you’ll have a blast. But there’s also a whole world of other activities to enjoy, whether you’re a non-partier, a family, or just someone who loves a lively atmosphere without the nightlife. Most of the intense partying happens in the nations in the days before Valborg itself, during themed pre-celebrations like Kvalborg and Skvalborg. Those might not have been my cup of tea, but the day of Valborg offered a whole variety of activities where I felt completely at ease.

We kicked off the day with the boat races along the river, and it was such a wholesome start! The creativity people poured into their boat designs was incredible, and the crowd’s energy, cheering everyone on, made it feel like a true community celebration. Afterward, we headed to the bustling food truck area in Ekonomikum Park (I honestly didn’t know Sweden had that many people!) and enjoyed a picnic with music and good company. Then we walked to the Carolina Rediviva for the iconic cap ceremony, and I’ve never seen a more dramatic (and joyful) welcome to spring. Later in the day, two Swedish friends opened their doors to us for a traditional dinner. Their gesture of sharing food together felt beautifully familiar and reminded me of how we celebrate back home. If you ask me, Valborg, at its heart, is really about togetherness.

Valborg showed me a different side of Uppsala: one that’s spirited, inclusive, and full of life. It reminded me that celebrations don’t have to look one specific way, they can be what you make of them! Even if you’re unsure whether Valborg is your thing, I’d still say: go for it! It’s one of those experiences you just shouldn’t miss. My tip? Maybe skip the pre-parties if they’re not your vibe, but definitely don’t miss Valborg day itself!

After a long, dark Swedish winter, spring finally arrives—and with it comes Valborg, one of the most famous and beloved traditions in Sweden. In most parts of Sweden, Valborg is all about gathering around a bonfire. These fires symbolize the end of winter and the beginning of spring, historically believed to scare away evil spirits and wild animals.

In Uppsala, it’s not just a holiday and bonfire—it’s a full-blown, city-wide celebration unlike anything else! As an Uppsala Student, it is one of the events you don’t want to miss out.

The Valborg also known as Walpurgis Night or “sista april” (the last day of April), Valborg is deeply rooted in Swedish tradition. Nowhere in the country is it celebrated with more energy, color, and student spirit than in Uppsala, where over 120,000 people gather each year to welcome spring with music, laughter, and unforgettable events.

I am currently on my first year of master’s study and this will also be my first Valborg. I have heard a lot about it, many people have told me Valborg is so much fun, and they told me how crazy and different Uppsala will be. I am curious, and I want to experience it by myself.

Since this is my first Valborg, I did some reach and made some plans for it in case I will miss something. Let’s have a look together.

Champagne Breakfast

The Valborg day usually kicks off early as people gather with friends for a breakfast with champagne. I personally love champagne, but I have never tried to drink it during breakfast. But you know what, it must be a good preparation to start the day. Even if you don’t drink, I think it is also great to gather at a friend’s place and have a lovely breakfast and go to the main celebration together. Below is a photo my friend showed me from her last year’s Champagne breakfast. It looks really cute.

Raft Race

This must be one of the most iconic events on the Valborg day. At 10:00 AM, thousands of spectators line the banks of the Fyris River to watch students in teams ride homemade, hilariously decorated rafts through the city’s rapids. I have heard it is very crowed and kind of chaotic because people are everywhere. This year I will go there early to get a good spot since my friends will have a raft.

The Cap Ceremony

At 3:00 PM, students gather at the iconic Carolina Rediviva library, where the Vice-Chancellor waves their white student cap from the balcony. In unison, thousands of students put on their own white caps—a powerful symbol of unity and the official welcome of spring. I was thinking to buy a Swedish student hat as well, but I checked it on the internet, it is quite expensive. But it would be fun to have one as a memory of the student life.

Champagne Gallop

After the ceremony, it’s time for one of the wildest parts of Valborg. Students head to the nations for high-energy parties, where champagne isn’t just served—it’s sprayed! Expect dancing, loud music, and nonstop fun. And you know what? This year, I will organize the champagne gallop for Kalmar nation since I am their club master. All the past club masters have told me this event is really crazy and wild. I am super excited to see how crazy the Champagne gallop can be. And I must be very pound to organize it even without being experience it before.

Week-Long Celebrations at the Nations

In the days leading up to Valborg, all Uppsala 13 student nations host their own themed parties, live music events, barbecues, and fun activities. Whether you’re looking for club vibes, chill picnics, or cultural events—there’s something for everyone. And this year I will attend most of these events since I have a KK card (this is a very exclusive card for some nation position holders in Uppsala which allow you to enter any nation event for free and skip the line, even you can bring a friend in). Because for Valborg you need to buy a ticket before the event, I know for some nations, you have to queue six, seven hours to buy the ticket and event people be in the queue the night before they start sell the tickets. I know it sounds crazy, but that’s how crazy the nation events could be during the Valborg. I am very privileged to have a KK card so I will make most use of it.

Bonfires

Bonfires are a classic part of Valborg traditions across Sweden. Historically, Valborg bonfires were lit to ward off evil spirits and wild animals at the start of spring, and they became a symbol of light, renewal, and community. In many towns across Sweden, people gather in parks or by lakesides to sing traditional songs and watch the flames rise into the spring night sky. In Uppsala, there will also be bonfires in several spots. I am also very excited to end the day with a bonfire.

Waiting for the admission result

Exactly one year ago, on the admission results day, I woke up in the morning and saw the email of the admission results coming through. I did not know what to expect and since I’ve had classes starting soon, I decided to delay checking the outcome.

Once I got home from the classes, I nervously sat down in front of my laptop, hands shaking, breath quickening. Before I even managed to open the Swedish Admission website though, I saw an email coming straight from Uppsala saying “Congratulations”. In that moment, I realised. I got in.

Preparing for the results day

Up until that moment though and weeks prior, I spent my days wondering what the result could be, thinking about all the possible outcomes and how likely they were. Waiting for an important decision can be consuming, even paralyzing—life feels on hold until the outcome determines your next steps.

Ultimately, a game changer for me was altering the way I approached the thought of the upcoming result day.

Firstly, I allowed only positive thoughts in my mind – acknowledging the hard work I’ve done filling out the applications, and how many amazing qualities of mine I have listed that would impress the admission board.

Secondly, I decided to only focus on the present moment – focusing on the daily tasks and events that I need to do, as well as seeing friends and having a good time.

It is very easy to get lost in the thoughts of “What will happen next?”, but you can’t do anything about it until the results come out.

Thus, thirdly, I decided to create a distinct boundary between the present and the future. I realised that no matter what I did, or how much time I would think about the admission results, I could not control the outcome in that moment and I could not make the time go faster to get the result sooner.

Therefore, I think before result day, you should relax and take care of yourself, so once the official email comes, you are ready to receive it.

Plan B

Having a Plan B just in case things didn’t work out my way was critical in maintaining a calm and positive mindset towards the admission results day.

As my backup, I applied to two courses in the Dutch universities, so I knew in case things wouldn’t work out with Uppsala, I’d still have a second option to consider.

It’s good to have a Plan B, to know that you’re not out of options, but also so you have a direction to move forward to in case things don’t work out.

Final Note

No matter what the outcome of the admissions will be, it is important to remember you have done good enough and pushed through to make a great application. Hard work always pays off in the long run and life will always guide you towards the best outcome possible.

So whether you are admitted or not, remember – this is not the end of your road. It is just the beginning.