What Aleksa says about the Master's in European Studies

Aleksa from Latvia

Why did you choose this programme and why in Sweden? 

"It felt like a natural step after my studies in the area of Latvia and Nordic countries. I wanted to broaden my knowledge and not tie it to specific countries, but learn about the whole of Europe instead. I chose Lund because of its good reputation for being an amazing student city and for the highly ranked and respected university."

What do you think about your programme (so far)?  

"It definitely has been a great choice, as I have already learned so much in only a year (as I have one more year to go). I have not only received so much new knowledge, but the programme has also opened me up to new opportunities that I will be able to use in my future career path."

What is the best thing about your programme?  

"The best thing is that we receive a broad view of different topics related to Europe and we do not limit ourselves only to a narrow, specific area of knowledge. Also, I find the mix of theoretical and practical courses very valuable."

Why should prospective students choose this programme?  

"You should choose to study in MAPES to develop a larger understanding of different topics related to Europe, develop meaningful communication and management skills and surround yourself in an international environment where ideas never stop growing."

Have you been able to gain any practical experience during your studies (so far)?  

Definitely! So far, we have done ethnographic research, written project applications, had a small field trip and next semester we are going on internships! 

Interested in Aleksa's trainee experience at the European Commission? Read her blog post! 

Aleksa's blog post 'My Traineeship Experience at The European Commission!'

What do you think of the teaching style and facilities? 

"I like that we receive support and help from the professors but also get to work a lot on our own and in groups. It helps to develop even larger independence and prepares us for our future careers. 

The library at the Faculty of Humanities and Theology is very comfortable and well equipped with the literature we need for our studies."

How “international” is your programme?  

"It is very international! We are a small programme, but there are at least 10 nationalities represented."

What it is like to be an international student at Lund University?  

"Lund University is a very welcoming and safe environment for internationals with great opportunities of meeting people from everywhere in the world."

What do you think of Lund as a city and the surrounding area?  

"I have been to all three of the campus cities that Lund University has (Lund, Malmö, and Helsingborg) and I can say only good things about them! Lund, where I study, is a small city where you never feel alone because of the never-ending opportunities – both academically and for having fun in your free time. Also, I love walking in nature and going to the sauna! It gives me energy for studying. There are many hiking paths and sauna places around Lund. I would highly recommend Lund as a city, you will not regret coming here!"

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

"Enjoy the time as a student here and say ‘yes’ to events and activities together with your friends as much as possible because the time will go by very fast. Also, travel around Skåne! There are so many beautiful places around!"

Have you been able to get by with English in Sweden?  

"I personally speak Swedish, but I have noticed that you can get around with just English pretty easily. However, I highly recommend that you learn Swedish or at least some basic phrases and try to use them often. You will see that Swedes will appreciate that and you will feel more acculturated."

Do you think it will be easy to find a relevant position after your studies?  

"I think so because, even now, applying for internships for the autumn semester, I realised how many opportunities there are for us in the field of European Studies. I am excited to see what the future holds for us!"