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Harini  from Sri Lanka

About the programme and the teaching style 

Why did you choose this programme? Why in Sweden?  

"I wanted to study in Europe for some time. When considering my budget and best options, like the places where I can get the most academic benefits, I found Sweden as my best choice. So, I searched for many master programmes that align with my Bachelor's in Business Management. I found Service Management and it stood out as it differed from what I was used to. It was also my first time hearing of such a programme. I have worked as a front-line employee for nearly eight years in the service industry, so I believe this programme will help me dig more deeply and explore."

What do you think about your programme (so far)? Does it live up to your expectations? 

"I would say it has gone beyond my expectations, as it is a bit different. In my bachelor’s, my focus was on business perspectives, but this programme focuses on the professional's role. Thus, you kind of walk in the consumers' shoes to understand how they feel and react. It is different, so I really like it."

What is the best thing about your programme?  

"We get to look at things from different perspectives. I like critical thinking, and this programme provides me with that when writing my papers or reading journals. No matter how much you read, you need that critical thinking skill to understand and analyse. This, I believe, has helped in my personal life as well. I now look at things from different perspectives as well, and I would say I empathise with people."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"It is straightforward and easy when you know every side of the story. This programme will help you see the bigger picture when approaching a problem or an issue. You analyse it from all angles until you find a suitable or the most desired solution. I think such a skill is an essential life skill, more than just an academic one. It helps in real life, especially in a social and international one."

What is your favourite course and why? 

"The first course, Introduction to Service Management. This course is where you learn all the basics of the programme, how this service management has evolved over the years, and how they have put value on it. That course I found exciting as service management is still evolving, making me curious about how extensive it might get in years to come."

What do you think of the teaching style at Lund? 

"Oh, I like it! I am from Asia, and the teaching style I am used to is quite different. I have been following a particular teaching style for 13 years now. I came to Sweden to �۶���Ƶ, and it was totally the opposite. I was taken by surprise. I will admit it was a bit stressful initially, adjusting to these differences, but now I understand now. It took me some time to get used to it. In Sweden, you can openly say you do not know something in class, and that’s okay. The professors encourage group activities and peer learning, which is excellent. You can always ask your lecturers questions and reach out to them. I really like the openness they have. So, it helps you to go forward, like you are not afraid of anything. You are not afraid to speak up. You can always question them. It opens a great space to learn."

Thoughts on being an international student at Lund and spare time  

What is it like to be an international student at �۶���Ƶ? 

"Most of the people you find around �۶���Ƶ are new to the environment, so they are just like you. So just walk up to them, talk and make friends and do not forget to enjoy the beautiful Swedish culture when you have some spare time. It is great. It is a very different experience. It could have been different if I had moved to the UK or the USA.  To be honest, I did not know what to expect. If I had been in the UK, I would at least know what to expect, but here I did not know what to expect, yet everything has been great so far. Although some people believe Swedish people to be cold and not easy to make friends with, I believe it takes time, but when they get to know you, they are really friendly. You have to ask for help, and they will help you."

What do you do in your spare time?  

"I am an indoor person. Most of the time, I read. I also enjoy watching movies and going for walks with my partner sometimes, just exploring the parks and nature."

Tips for prospective students and thoughts on Sweden 

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

"There are a few things that I would like to mention. The first thing is planning your finances. Create a budget to cover the expenses and, if possible, look into scholarship opportunities and part-time work. (But, if you are a fee-paying student, then it is very hard to do a part-time job that covers all your expenses, including the tuition fee. So be prepared for that and plan ahead)!  

Then, be well prepared for cold and dark winters. As the saying goes “There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”. Learn how to layer your clothes and keep yourself warm to avoid getting sick. Take advantage of the academic support the university offers. There are various types of academic support services that the university offers for its students. So, do not hesitate to seek assistance if you are facing challenges in your academics.

Finally, expand your network, make new friends, blend into the Swedish culture, familiarise yourself with Swedish customs, be respectful and considerate of local norms, experience new things and embrace the new chapter of your life!"

What have you liked most about living in Sweden, and what have you learned from living in Sweden? 

"I think I like how Swedes keep to themselves yet can also be social. I think I learned to be more sociable than I used to be. It took me some time to realize, especially with other students, that they were just like me. Everybody is trying to figure things out and has questions similar to mine. This realization helped me to be more forward and mingle with people."

Do you have tips on overcoming homesickness for students from your region? 

"There is quite a prominent Sri Lankan community, so maybe mingle with them, get to know them, and make friends. Most importantly, you do not have to be with only Sri Lankan people. You can make friends with people from all over the world so that you can learn new things. You can also find your spices here so make some Sri Lankan food and engage in social activities."

What are your future plans? 

"Actually, I am planning to enter the corporate world after this. I will hopefully learn some Swedish and widen the scope of my career opportunities."

If you want to know more about Harini's thoughts on living in Helsingborg or learn more about her journey in the programme (including tips for new students) you can also read her blog posts: