Hi guys, my name is Jessica and I have been lucky enough to spend the last year studying archaeology and anthropology at Lund University. This has been a wonderful experience, from the people, the place, and (of course) the academics, I have been left not wanting to come home! Lund University is wonderful, with a dedicated and world renowned faculty, and facilities that are to die for. Coming from the UK, I didn’t know how much I would enjoy the Swedish scene, but honestly it’s such a wonderful country which I would 100 percent recommend living in if you have the chance.
The town is a student city, with bustling nightlife, but equally a small town vibe as you are never far from nature. Though it can prove challenging to find accommodation in Lund, it is worth the difficulties to study at such an incredible university. The university is composed of student nations, which I would strongly suggest getting involved in. These serve as a kind of home away from home, making socialising and getting to know people easy and enjoyable. I’ve loved the proximity to Sweden’s third biggest city, Malmo, and would suggest anyone heading to Lund check out the offerings in this city as there is truly something for everyone. The nature has been dazzling, and it’s really worth packing some hiking boots to make the most of the camping and hiking opportunities.
Academically, this has been a really relaxed year. I’m not sure if it has been the courses I’ve taken, or Sweden more generally, but I have really been able to sit back. If you’re looking for something academically rigorous I would steer clear of Lund, though perhaps that’s because the courses available in English are more limited and therefore targeted at more entry level. I have however been able to take some really inspiring courses which I wouldn’t have had in Southampton, such as Critical Animal Studies or Viking Archaeology. I would suggest taking advantage of the wide array of options in order to learn things that aren’t taught at home.
My biggest take away from this year has been to get involved in every opportunity given to you! The increase in money during my year abroad, coupled with very cheap Swedish rent, meant I didn’t have to work this year so I could totally get involved in everything. This has allowed me to join a local kayak club, volunteer at my student nation, become more immersed in local activism, and much more, which I think has really meant I will be returning to Southampton more refreshed and excited to broaden my horizons.
Overall tips:
- Get on the housing queues early! I know plenty of people who got to Lund without having accommodation and spent the first few weeks stressed.
- The visa process is easier than you think it is…
- Buy a bike! Lund is small but without your bicycle you will struggle to get around. There are some great second hand shops in Lund that make buying/renting a bike very affordable.
- Take the Swedish for exchange students course. This will really help you in ordering your coffees (and vitally your falafel wraps…)
- Download the skanetrafiken app for all your transport needs (it does tickets and google maps all in one place)
- Join a student nation and get involved! Volunteering at the nation or participating in novisch weeks is a great way to get to know people.
- Check out Skane more generally, there are some amazing things to see in the area.
- Rent may be cheap but groceries are expensive. Check out Lidl or Willys for the best deals.
Overall my advice is if you can go to Lund, do! It is a really wonderful location for a year abroad, with plenty of international students, and a very cosy vibe. Sweden is never somewhere I thought I would live, but I am already dreading leaving (and planning how I can get a visa to live there more permanently!).
