What Hadiqa says about the Master's in Chemistry, Biochemistry

To Chemistry, Biochemistry - Master Programme

Introducing Hadiqa

Hi! My name is Hadiqa and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Chemistry, Biochemistry. 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 practical experience

Why did you choose Lund University?

"I chose Lund University because of its reputation for being open and supportive towards innovation! Apart from that, Kemicentrum is the biggest and largest research centre in all of Scandinavia, which is exciting! I love the 'small town big city' feeling Lund gives. I definitely enjoy the fact that I can be very flexible with my Master's degree education because my programme offers the opportunity to take a variety of courses, as well as complete internships and projects outside the department and even the country! The staff at LU are incredible and very supportive which made me fall in love with Lund University even more."

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

"I love my programme! I enjoy the flexibility it offers, with the opportunity to do a short research project instead of an elective course and choose to do a Master's thesis of 30, 45, or 60 credits! The labs are very advanced and well-equipped with modern technologies and techniques that have exceeded my expectations."

What is the best thing about your programme?

"The labs and flexibility my programme offers! I really admire and like my study director and adviser. They have been nothing but sweet and helpful! I also love the fact that my programme is very relaxed, focused on concepts and learning instead of grades and scores."

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

"Yes! I had the option to do a 15-credit research project with one of the research groups at the Department of Biochemistry, where I worked on the expression and purification of two target proteins. This is very relevant to my fieldwork and gave me experience for a lot of fundamental techniques and concepts with hands-on training and experiments! The labs are also built to give the students plenty of exposure to techniques being employed in biochemistry research."

Why should prospective students choose this programme?

"You will get to study at the biggest and largest research centre in all of Scandinavia and the faculty is very supportive and helpful. The courses, coupled with labs, are advanced and give practical exposure to prepare you for future research endeavours. You will have the flexibility to customise your programme and you don't have to stress about grades as you get to focus on concepts and learning."

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?

"It is a roller-coaster ride, with a lot more ups than downs. It is amazing to see people from all over the world in one single city and learning about their culture and tradition. Everyone is welcoming and friendly. It is very easy to find a community and feel like it's your second home. It is never a boring day as an international student at Lund University."

What do you do in your spare time?

"I love working with my student union LUNA to help improve the quality of education at the Faculty of Science for the students. I am a part of the Corporate Relations Committee that works to connect students with potential opportunities and prepare them for the corporate world after graduation. I am also a student representative at LINXS Board (a study institute whose mission is to promote science and education). Apart from that, I love volunteering at student nations to meet people, work with them, and make amazing, new food! Lund is a great city to take long walks, and I thoroughly enjoy the walks in nature. "

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

Some of my highlights have been living alone for the first time and in a completely different country, joining the student council as one of the few international students where I was able to bring fresher perspective to the table, doing my research project and assisting with the organisation of the Faculty of Science's annual career fair, ATLAS 2024, where I worked together with over 30 companies. I have had a lot of firsts here, such as the first time taking a train, flying in a plane, eating semla (a traditional Swedish pastry), cinnamon buns, travelling and hiking! Other highlights include being selected and working as a Lund University Student Ambassador, volunteering at four different student nations as well as at the organisation Svalorna in Lund. Also, the first time seeing snow was amazing!"

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

"The world is filled with opportunities, you just have to be brave enough to try! Do not hesitate to go for whatever you want. Know that Lund is filled with people who want you to succeed! "