Author: Guestblogger (Page 1 of 19)

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.

I thought I knew what to expect of Swedish winters when I first arrived in Uppsala. After all, as a Canadian, I am accustomed to cold, dark, long winters. However, as winter approached, I realized that Swedish winters have their own unique charm.  Over time, I have come to appreciate and even love the Swedish approach to winter. Here are some of my favourite aspects:

Festive Traditions

Experiencing Swedish traditions during the winter has been a highlight of my time as an international student in Uppsala. The most popular celebration is probably St. Lucia’s Day which is celebrated on the 13^th of December with candlelit processions, music, and Christmas treats. Beyond religious traditions, there is no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in Swedish culture throughout the winter. For example, there are many Christmas markets, where you can buy handmade advent stars (very commonly seen hanging in Swedish windows), glögg (spiced mulled wine), and a variety of other Swedish treats.

Outdoor Activities

For the adventurous and outdoorsy spirit, winter opens up a new world of activities. In and around Uppsala city, you can try ice skating and cross-country skiing. Not only are these activities fun, but they are also a great way to stay active during the winter. Even if you’re not an athlete, sledding or building a snowman with friends can make for a fun winter activity. If you’re worried about not having the right equipment to enjoy winter activities—fret not! You can rent sports and outdoor equipment for free from Fritidsbanken!

A Culture That Celebrates Coziness

Swedes have truly mastered the art of making winter evenings cozy. While Canadians have their own version of cozy evenings, the Swedish take feels more intentional. The tradition of fika (coffee and cake break) is a cherished ritual among Swedes. Enjoying a warm cup of coffee and a kanelbulle (cinnamon bun) with friends while the snow falls outside is pure magic.

Long Nights and Short Days

The short days and long nights can be intimidating at first, but they provide a chance to slow down and reflect. Lighting candles, hosting movie nights with friends, or curling up with a good book are all a part of the charm. Plus, student nations organize events and activities that bring students together, ensuring you never feel isolated. Just remember to take your vitamin D supplements and make the most of your day while the sun is out!

Final Thoughts You may have heard some horror stories about Swedish winters but trust me — with the right clothing and mindset, it can be a beautiful season. So, whether you’re an experienced winter veteran or someone encountering the snow for the first time, don’t worry: bundle up, embrace the charm, and make the most of the season!

At Uppsala University, a master’s thesis can range from 30, 45, or 60 credits and is typically completed in the final phase of your studies. From your master thesis, you will get valuable training in planning, implementing, documenting, and reporting an independent research project. Beyond that, it’s an opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and development work. Your thesis project may be done at a company, government agency, or university, either in Sweden or abroad.

Starting the search for a thesis topic can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you get started.

1. Choose a topic that interests you and start looking early

Find a topic you are interested in, maybe a subject you heard about in one of your lectures or a topic you find interesting to explore. Start thinking about the subject early. You will spend a lot of time and effort on your research. Therefore, it is important to find a topic that will make you curious, motivated, and passionate.

2. Check out the ongoing research in your department

Check out the ongoing research that is done in our department, you might find someone who already works in something you’re interested in. Don’t be afraid to reach out to learn more about their work.

3. Reach out for advice

Don’t hesitate to contact a teacher and ask for advice, this can be your coordinator they can offer valuable guidance on topic selection. If you are a current student and have logged in to the student page, you can see which department or faculty is responsible for your study program or course, here you can find who can help.

4. Check the University’s Project Pages

Look at the project page in your department, here you can find project updates that might interest you. Here for example

5. Look in other universities

Look for project opportunities at other opportunities at other universities.

6. Use SciLifeLab for Science-Related Topics

For science-related topics, SciLifeLab is a great resource. This Swedish research center collaborates with various universities and industries, making it an ideal starting point for students in biology, chemistry, pharmacology, and bioinformatics.

7. Browse LinkedIn for Networking and Opportunities

Browse LinkedIn, this is another good platform for looking for opportunities and networking. LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunting, it’s also a fantastic tool for connecting with professionals, researchers, and alumni in your field.

8. Attend Career Events and Sign Up for Alerts

Uppsala’s career services regularly host events and maintain a job portal where companies post thesis project ideas and collaborations. Signing up for these alerts can help you stay informed about industry-relevant topics and internship-based thesis opportunities.

9. Check the DiVA Portal

DiVA is Uppsala University’s digital publishing system for publications produced by the University’s researchers and students. This can be a helpful way to see what projects others have completed, find potential advisors, and visualize the range of possibilities.

Whether your hometown is just a train ride away or you’re coming from halfway across the globe, moving to a new country as an international student takes such a big leap of faith. It’s definitely not for everyone as it requires a lot of flexibility, adaptability, initiative, and eagerness to learn. It was one of the most extreme ways for me to go out of my comfort zone.

To paint a clearer picture, I went from having more than enough space in my house back home to living in a corridor and sharing a kitchen with people I’m meeting for the first time. Until recently, life pretty much looked like light T-shirts, 30-degree weather, and the familiarity of hearing my native language everywhere I go. While all that has been replaced with bulky winter coats, freezing cold temperatures, and having to pull up Google Translate every time I’m at the supermarket, I have no regrets with my decision to move to and study in Sweden. 

That doesn’t mean that everything has been smooth sailing thus far. Being thousands of kilometers away from friends and family along with the discomfort that comes with growth can take a toll sometimes. This is why it’s equally important to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for the (non-academic) challenges that come with being an international student. Here are some ways that I did so and I hope they help you out too!

1. Make a checklist of things you need or want to bring
It’s important that you eventually start seeing Uppsala as your new home. Make yourself comfortable by bringing not only the essentials but also a few things from home that you might not find in Sweden. That could be comfort food, polaroid photos of loved ones, or materials that would allow you to engage in your old hobbies!

2. Reflect on your goals and make a visual reminder of them
Living in a new country has its ups and downs so make sure to remind yourself of the reasons you applied to Uppsala University in the first place. Looking back at how much you prepared for your application as well as the goals you want to achieve while you’re in Sweden can serve as good motivators to keep moving forward during tough times. You could maybe write these down or (like me) make a Pinterest board of them!

3. Spend as much time as you can with your loved ones before you leave
Whether it’s people in your programme or your corridormates, you will for sure make new friends during your time in Uppsala. But it’s perfectly valid to miss the people you grew up with and those you’re leaving back home. With that, make as many memories as you can with your loved ones and enjoy the time you have left in your home country before you move. These will not only make for good stories to tell your new friends but also be things to look back on when you’re maybe feeling lonely.

There may be more ways for you to prepare yourself to move to Sweden, so try these out but also take the time to figure out what works best for you. Also, make sure to follow @studyatuu on Instagram to get a glimpse of what daily life as an international student in Uppsala University looks like!

One of the best ways to integrate into a country, is to learn a language!
Because how else would we be able to order a cinnamon bun during fika,
sing the songs during a gasque or get your bike fixed??

Exactly! By speaking Swedish!

As lucky as we are, the Swedish language is really fun to learn. But that
does not mean it is easy and not scary to speak it! And therefore, our lovely university comes to the rescue: They do offer Swedish for Academics on different levels (1,2,3,4), so everyone can join!

You can follow the classes at the Department of Scandinavian Languages, and chose between 2 formulas: 2 times 2 hours a week, or 3 hours on 1
day. But be quick, as the classes are very popular, not everyone can join them and they work with a ‘first come, first serve’.

No worries if you didn’t got in, as there are other ways to learn it!

• Swedish for immigrants (SFI) – if you live in Uppsala kommun, have a valid residence permit and are 20 years old, you can follow classes for free
• Swedish classes at Folkuniversitetet
• Uppsalingo at Gotlands nation and talking cafés at the other nations –
  check out thefacebookpages/groups so you keep up to date!
• Uppsala library – here you can borrow e-book

Another way to get used to a language, can be listening to music and
watching tv-shows! This might be my favorite way to learn, so I’ve made a list with myfavorites at this moment!

Swedish tv-shows

• Johan Falk
• The restaurant
• The bridge
• Young royals
• Bonusfamiljen
• Borgen
• The playlist
• Barracuda queens
• Kalifat

As you can see, the list is endless!!

Swedish artists:

• Benjamin Ingrosso
• Molly Sanden
• Molly Hammar
• Veronica Maggio

And some more alternative:

• Kent
• Cleo
• Hurula
• Solen
• Terra

And the last, but most important tip: just try to speak Swedish!!
The more you practice and try, the easier it will get! So don’t worry if it is not perfect, the Swedish people are very kind and are in my experience very happy to hear that someone is learning their language!

To help you, I have listed up some Swedish sentences. Some of them are used in daily life; and others will make you sound as a local 🙂

Jättebra, tack ska du ha = great, thank you
Jag förstår inte = I do not understand
Vilken nation är du i? = What is your nation?
Det knallar och går = it’s all right
Dra mig baklänges på en liten vagn = being surprised by something

Goodluck while learning the language – you got this!
And if you see me, feel free to share your favorite music and tv-shows!

Hej då!