What Maria Kristin says about the Master's in Asian Studies

Introducing Maria Kristin 

Hi! My name is Maria and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Asian Studies. 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 Lund University? 

"I chose Lund University because of the positive international reputation, the active student life, and mostly for the programme. Master’s programmes in Asian Studies are rare in Europe and this programme is very diverse when it comes to the topics taught. Lastly, I chose Lund because it is a hub for international students." 

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

"I enjoy my programme very much! I like that it is relatively small. This helps us make stronger connections with both lecturers and fellow course mates. We are encouraged to pursue topics we are interested in. For example, we are free to choose which topics we'll write our final papers on. Overall, the programme has met my expectations. " 

What is the best thing about your programme? 

"This programme is one of the only Asian Studies programmes in Europe where you can study both East Asia as well as Southeast Asia, which is amazing. The structure of the programme provides us with crucial critical analysis skills and a good understanding of the politics, economics, and culture of Asia as a whole. In the second semester, we choose a region to study (either China, Southeast Asia or Japan/Korea). In case you are interested in more than one region, you can sign up to audit lectures on other regions." 

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"I like that you're expected to study a lot on your own. This creates flexibility in my life since my days aren't filled with various lectures. Additionally, I like that we study one course at a time, instead of multiple courses simultaneously. Students can focus and dig deep on one topic, and we don't have to take multiple final exams at the same time."

How international is your programme? 

"Our programme is very international. It helps us to have nuanced and interesting discussions in class and allows us to have friends from around the world." 

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

"Not yet, but we are encouraged to find internships to help us further develop our skills."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"This programme is incredibly versatile in the themes we are taught. Additionally, the lecturers, staff and PhD students at our institute are incredibly open, helpful, and knowledgeable in their respective fields. Lastly, the institute regularly invites guest lecturers to either teach a class or give a lecture outside of the curriculum. This gives us the chance to network as well as learn about topics and countries that aren't covered in our programme's curriculum."

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

What is it like being an international student at Lund University? 

"Being an international student at Lund University is great! Since many international students choose to study in Lund, the university is incredibly forthcoming to international students. For example, the university organises orientation weeks for new students which include lectures on studying and living in Sweden, fun activities, and help with commuting from the Copenhagen airport to Lund. "

What do you do in your spare time? 

"In my spare time, I like to travel around Skåne and visit events organised by various nations with my friends. Lund is also great for exercising, so I try to swim and practice Aikido (Editors note:a Japanese form of self-defence and martial art) as much as possible."

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

"The highlights of my first year are meeting many interesting people, exploring Lund and, as nerdy as it may sound, studying. I'm really happy with my programme so going to lectures is something I always look forward to."

Have more questions for Maria Kristin? 

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