What Brodie says about the Master's in Religious Roots of Europe

To Religious Roots of Europe - Master's Programme

Introducing Brodie

Hi! My name is Brodie and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Religious Roots of Europe. 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 decided to visit Lund on a whim while in Copenhagen. When I arrived on the train, I immediately knew it was a special place. Walking up towards the university campus seeing the old brick buildings, ivy covered university, the green botanical garden, I was wowed. Arriving at the Lund Cathedral, I wandered into the photographer Jan Norden’s photo store and, after some conversation, ended up walking his dogs with him! The walk with the dogs sealed Lund as a place to be. The streets were cobbled and empty, the church yard was green, and the houses were small, cute, and painted in fun colours. I was so relaxed here. I knew I had to return."

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

"Religious Roots of Europe (RRE) exceeds expectations. I had worried, coming from a small liberal arts school, that I would be lost at such a big school, but the class size is smaller than in the US and I have more connection with the teachers. Moreover, the programme is shared between three universities – Lund, Copenhagen, and Oslo. The shared structure of the programme means that you get to see much of Europe (during compact seminars), but also experience many types of teaching styles."

What is the best thing about your programme?

"For some the travel would be the best part – the class has modules in Rome, Copenhagen, Lund, and Israel-Palestine – but for me the close-knit community is what stands apart. Together with my fellow students I am part of a family. Being the youngest I feel very lucky to have so much attention and support. The older students are supportive of me in a way that can only be likened to familial care. For example, we get together for coffee together every Thursday, hold weekly meetings where each person shares their interests, and even have paid group dinners."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?

"Religious Roots of Europe is taught as a hybrid programme. So, the lectures are predominantly online. Along with the online classes there is a week-long compact seminar where all the students get together in one town (both in the Nordics or in Rome, Israel/Palestine, etc.). Because of the small class size, I always receive prompt direct feedback, both verbal and written, from the professors themselves. There are no teaching assistants and no massive classes, just caring professors and great resources."

How international is your programme?

"The programme is built on a diverse foundation of people. Students come from Gambia, China, Ireland, Copenhagen, USA, Sweden, and Korea - this is just from the 10 students in this year’s class! Not only are the students geographically diverse, but they come from all different stages of life: some are teachers, new graduates, and priests (just to name a few)."

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

"RRE is immersed in the field. For example, you would have the opportunity to help on an archaeological excavation in Israel-Palestine. We also have had trips to churches, synagogues, and mosques. Finally, we visited archaeological sites in Rome – Ostia Antica, Ara Pacis, etc."

Why should prospective students choose this programme?

"If you are looking for an international community of tight knit students and faculty, then this is a great 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?

"Just like the programme, Lund is also a global town. There are specialty grocers, cultural student groups, and most people speak English."

What do you do in your spare time?

"In Lund I run, bike, sew, and eat falafel. Part of the appeal of Lund is its nature. Though not idyllic, it is special in its openness. If I go for a run I never have to stop to wait at a crosswalk (the cars magically stop when you approach), or while biking I can explore the region (Skåne) on the numerous interconnected bike paths. The town is big enough to support everything to fuel your hobbies, a sewing store, photo shops, etc. Finally, if you are a falafel connoisseur there are 11 falafel shops in the town!"

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

"The silence can be startling. In the US, cars whiz by all hours of the day and there doesn’t feel like there is much sacred, silent space. Here I can sleep with the window open, walk through the town while talking in a whisper, and hear the birds in the morning. People are the priority. When returning home, I am reminded that living in Lund is a privilege."

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

"If you have the opportunity, come take a visit. Sit in the gardens and listen. Maybe you will even get to walk Jan’s dogs!"