What Esthefania says about the Master's in Human Rights Studies

To Human Rights Studies - Master's Programme

Introducing Esthefania

Hi! My name is Esthefania and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Human Rights 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 its Master's degree offering. In particular, the programme that I am currently studying seemed very interesting to me and aligned with my expectations. Likewise, the choice had to do with the financing options and scholarships that the university offers non-EU students."

What is the best thing about your programme?

"For me, the best thing is the opportunity to do internships or field work outside of Sweden. Likewise, something very important is the programme’s connection with institutions that are working directly on Human Rights, such as the Swedish or Danish Institute of Human Rights, or the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?

"It has been something that I like very much. The structure of seminars and lectures are a great opportunity to learn and at the same time discuss and contribute from our knowledge and experiences as students. Additionally, the flexibility of the programme helps us focus on our learning and not on competitiveness."

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

"My programme offers a 'Human Rights in Practice' course which allows you to learn a little more closely about the work of the non-governmental sector in the generation of projects related to Human Rights. This course is generally run by the Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights. In my case, I took advantage of my second semester to do a part-time internship at this institute to learn more about the practical side of my programme, but this is not mandatory."

Why should prospective students choose this programme?

"I consider it a great opportunity to understand the discourse and work in Human Rights at a more academic level. Likewise, being a young programme, the contribution of new students with different and diverse backgrounds could be very enriching. If you are passionate about working in human rights and want to delve deeper into it from a multidisciplinary perspective, this is the ideal programme."

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?

"The university has many international students. It is easy to find students from your country or at least from your region and create a community with them. Many times, this opportunity is very good as it allows you to feel a little closer to home. Similarly, this characteristic of the university allows you to open your mind and learn a lot about other cultures and countries, which is really positive in the pedagogical process."

What do you do in your spare time?

"When I'm not studying or doing my internship, I spend time with my friends. I really enjoy going out for a coffee or getting together to cook. There are opportunities to party in the nations and share with new people. On the other hand, I always make time to do physical activity like going to the gym during my days and it is something that I really enjoy being able to do."

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

"For me, the most important thing has been learning and contributing my knowledge and experience in the classroom. Also, being able to make new friends and travel so easily around Europe has been something that has made me very happy. Finally, I must add that doing an internship in my area has been an incredible opportunity to put my knowledge into practice."

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

"I would tell them not to be afraid to apply. Both the university and the city are very friendly spaces for new students, especially those from other countries. Without a doubt, the quality of life that Sweden offers and how adapted the city is to diversity is admirable. The environment is not hostile at all and it is easy to start over in a place like this."