What Chandara says about the Master's in International Human Rights Law
Introducing Chandara
Hi! My name is Chandara and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in International Human Rights Law. 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 Lund University?
"I chose to pursue my Master's at Lund University for three reasons. First, Lund University has been consistently ranked among the best universities in the world. It provides quality education and at the same time offers a wide range of opportunities for students to develop themselves academically and professionally. Secondly, Lund University is a very international university. You can meet and learn from people who come from every continent. Last but not least, I chose Lund because of its affiliation with the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law, the very institute that I got selected as a scholarship recipient to pursue my Master’s degree in International Human Rights Law. "
What are your first impressions of your programme? Does it meet your expectations?
"In this programme, the courses are taught one at a time. There are two courses for the first semester, but right now I am doing only one. I found it surprising at first because where I previously studied, the courses were generally conducted simultaneously. However, as I gradually immerse myself in the course, I find it very useful to study one course at a time as I have enough time to devote more to the content of the course. The programme does really meet my expectations as the professors are very helpful and understanding, and it is equipped with the academic support centre and available resources for your learning."
What have been the highlights of your first months in Lund?
"My first few months here have been fascinating. Lund is such a scenic place that no matter where I go, I can always enjoy the beauty of architecture and nature co-exist among each other, and that is something for which I am grateful. In addition, I have met other international students with whom I can discuss their different cultures and how Swedish culture shocks us sometimes. It feels good knowing you are not alone, and that other people can also relate to your experience. Moreover, there are a lot of social activities that regardless of what you are into, there is always a place for you. I have been learning Swedish by going to the EOS language café, and while the language itself is hard, I have a lot of fun learning and meeting other people. I am also looking forward to other enjoyable activities that Lund offers."
What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?
The teaching style here emphasises a student-centred approach. Students are encouraged to be accountable for their own learning. Thus, the lecture usually takes around 2 hours every other day, and students spend most of their time with the reading materials and self-study. Nevertheless, the professors provide regular feedback on students' work which is very helpful. I enjoy this teaching and learning style as I have more control over my learning. However, it can be challenging sometimes if one does not have a habit of self-studying. "
How international is your programme?
"There are around 26 students in my class, and the class itself is so international that there are only 4 students who are Swedish. Other than that, there is a diverse nationality from within as well as outside Europe."
What are you most looking forward to in your programme?
"I am very much looking forward to seeing how my semester unfolds from one course to another, and more importantly to creating a meaningful connection with my classmates, professors, and staff at the university."
Stay tuned! A more comprehensive testimonial from this student will be published once they have completed their first semester at Lund and have more insights to share about their programme.
Have more questions for Chandara?
You can chat with her and other current students directly via Unibuddy by clicking the card below.
"A very straightforward programme with useful resources"
Napthali from Nigeria
"An opportunity to choose what you wish to specialise in"
Ruhiyya from Azerbaijan