51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ

Introducing Bernardo

Hi! My name is Bernardo and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Global Development, Population and Economic Change. I am happy to answer any questions you might have about the programme, courses, student life, and life in Lund and Sweden via the Unibuddy Platform, where you can chat with me (see below). Please note that I cannot answer questions about the application process, scholarships, or residence permits. 

About the programme and the teaching style 

Why did you choose 51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ? 

"I chose 51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ because it combined attractive elements of the known and the unknown. l was keen on small classes and seminar-heavy courses. Based on my first cycle in a small liberal arts college, I knew these types of spaces often result in engaging discussions. Therefore, I felt that 51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ would be a place where my efforts would be amply rewarded. Additionally, a lovely environment and a high standard of living sets students up for success. Ultimately, I chose this university because I could envision not just fruitful studies, but a fruitful life here." 

What do you think of your programme so far? Does it meet your expectations?

"My programme has been quite engaging, within interdisciplinary studies it is of course important to equalise certain competencies (through mandatory courses in econometrics for instance), while also allowing for flexibility and choice. I appreciate that the study structure becomes increasingly satisfying, there is greater responsibility, choice and complexity presented to students, as both individual courses and as the overall programme progresses." 

What is the best thing about your programme?

"The faculty! To be an academic is not the same as being a teacher – this is known. Therefore, to find individuals that have both skills is a gift that should be appreciated."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?

"The teaching style here values genuine learning and health. Academic output matters, the material is rich and worthy, discussions can be profound, but the achievement of these goals is always done while considering the wellbeing of everyone involved. It is quite moving to see this type of learning."

How international is your programme? 

"In terms of composition, my programme is very international, most predominantly students come from Latin America, Europe and East Asia. I’ve always lived in international settings, so I understand that each place feels different depending on the mix of cultures."

Have you been able to gain any practical experience during your studies?

"I have not yet engaged in an internship as a part of my studies, however, this has been due to my particular aims rather than a lack of opportunity."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"Our programme is both rigorous and flexible. We have great freedom in steering many of the course assignments to suit future areas of interest that align with careers within and beyond academia. Also, having many teachers compared to students helps create a healthy learning environment and allows for varied and meaningful assessments. If you are willing to put in the work, your ideas will be listened to and the arguments you set out will be carefully examined, challenged and improved. This programme will help you build strong skills and confidence, preparing you for future success."

Thoughts on being an international student at Lund, spare time and tips for prospective students 

What is it like being an international student at 51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ? 

"Being an international student at 51ÖØ¿ÚÁÔÆæ is quite great. The city is safe and quite diverse, there are plenty of libraries where you can study, and the university is well equipped to assist students from all walks of life."

What do you do in your spare time? 

"I love to bike around the province and explore. Good infrastructure should not be taken for granted. I also enjoy reading fantasy and science fiction."

Do you have any advice for students that are considering coming to Lund? 

"If you are coming from countries that do not have as intense winters, be prepared to monitor your vitamin D levels. "The weather is quite mild, and the shorter days aren’t as tough as in most parts of the country. Still, being prepared will help you enjoy your time here."

Have more questions for Bernardo? 

You can chat with him and other current students directly via Unibuddy by clicking the card below.