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Introducing Arpita 

Hi! My name is Arpita and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Mathematics. 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.  

Why did you choose ÃÛ¶¹ÊÓƵ?

"I wanted to choose a university in Sweden for my Master’s,  given how technologically advanced the country is, especially in the fields of scientific research and academia. ÃÛ¶¹ÊÓƵ was the best choice that aligned with my career goals. Also, Lund in itself is a beautiful city!"

What are your first impressions of your programme? Does it meet your expectations? 

"I really enjoy the subject and came here with high hopes that the department definitely delivered. The classes are intense given the difficulty of the course, but the professors and faculty are very approachable and flexible, always ready to guide and help. As an international student, the system of choosing courses in the programme and pattern of the semesters and exams initially challenged me. But now I’ve figured out the pace and rhythm of the course, making it much easier to meet deadlines and prepare for exams. In the end, I’m really enjoying my programme and so far everything about the university and the maths department is meeting my expectations. "

What have been the highlights of your first months in Lund? 

"It’s only been about 3 months since I arrived, and Lund already feels familiar like one of my own cities. My highlights would be the cycling path that I take to the university that crosses the Cathedral, the university house and the university library. Those views can never get old. My classes of course, the experience of my first Swedish exams, the friends I’ve made and the people I’ve met from many different cultures and backgrounds have also been highlights. The peaceful walks at night, Lund performance night, Halloween, Indian festivals and events organised by the South Asian society (UTSAV), borrowing books to read from Stadsbibliotek and regularly eating falafel rolls in Botulfsplatsen when I have no meal plans. The list goes on and on!"

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"The teaching style is quite different than what I’m used to. Having done my studies in India and then doing my Bachelor’s in the UK, both had quite similar styles in teaching. For example, they both had only coursework all year with the exams during the last 2 months. But here, the teaching style changed a bit, the way notes are provided and textbook sections pointed out. This really helped me to refer to the books when revising. Exams are held immediately when the course ends and I was newly introduced to the concept of oral exams. I had never done this and didn’t know how to prepare for it. But one experience was all I needed. Swedish teaching has been more open and informal compared to my previous school and university experiences, which has helped me understand the content of my courses much better and encouraged me to learn more. " 

How international is your programme? 

"My programme was advertised as an English-speaking course. I would say there are about 10 international students in my course out of the total of 20-25, which is quite a good percentage. Most of the international students are from other countries in Europe and many are here on exchange. Some of us are from Asia and a few are from other parts of the world. But it is indeed a very diverse course taught 100% in English."

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

"Yes! The courses in numerical analysis are completely related to coding and projects, showcasing the practical applications of multiple mathematical concepts. There were also other mathematical courses that involved project work, which we then presented as part of the assessment."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"For all the students who love maths and are passionate to learn more about its different areas and applications, you should definitely consider this programme. You can build a path towards the area of maths you want to work with in the future, and the department makes sure to support and help the students every step of the way. You will also find other maths lovers who are just as passionate, and working together will help you grow into loving the subject even more."

What is it like being an international student at ÃÛ¶¹ÊÓƵ?

"It is so much fun! As international students, we get the opportunity to delve into so many different cultures and learn more about them by meeting all the people here. It exposes us to so many more experiences while figuring out life in a country different from our own home."

What do you do in your spare time? 

"During my spare time, I enjoy my hobbies, such as visiting the stadsbibliotek (city library) to pick up and read books. I also like taking walks (or cycling) around central Lund or hiking up Sankt Hans backar. The views there are something I could never be bored of. I also like to meet up with my friends to hang out or explore new places to eat."

What have been the highlights of your first year in Lund? 

"My highlights are meeting all the people I’ve met through this first year, all the places I’ve travelled throughout Scandinavia, finding out my strengths and weaknesses in my studies and, the area of mathematics I am interested in working on. This past year has been so much fun, and I only hope the next will be nothing but better."

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

"ÃÛ¶¹ÊÓƵ is definitely one of the top universities for further studies. Also, stock up on good winter wear. It does get quite chilly here."

Have more questions for Arpita? 

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