What Arpita says about the Master's in Mathematics
Introducing Arpita
Hi! My name is Arpita and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Mathematics. 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.
Why did you choose Lund University?
"I wanted to choose a university in Sweden for my Master’s, given how technologically advanced the country is, especially in the fields of scientific research and academia. Lund University was the best choice that aligned with my career goals. Also, Lund in itself is a beautiful city!"
What are your first impressions of your programme? Does it meet your expectations?
"I really enjoy the subject and came here with high hopes that the department definitely delivered. The classes are intense given the difficulty of the course, but the professors and faculty are very approachable and flexible, always ready to guide and help. As an international student, the system of choosing courses in the programme and pattern of the semesters and exams initially challenged me. But now I’ve figured out the pace and rhythm of the course, making it much easier to meet deadlines and prepare for exams. In the end, I’m really enjoying my programme and so far everything about the university and the maths department is meeting my expectations. "
What have been the highlights of your first months in Lund?
"It’s only been about 3 months since I arrived, and Lund already feels familiar like one of my own cities. My highlights would be the cycling path that I take to the university that crosses the Cathedral, the university house and the university library. Those views can never get old. My classes of course, the experience of my first Swedish exams, the friends I’ve made and the people I’ve met from many different cultures and backgrounds have also been highlights. The peaceful walks at night, Lund performance night, Halloween, Indian festivals and events organised by the South Asian society (UTSAV), borrowing books to read from Stadsbibliotek and regularly eating falafel rolls in Botulfsplatsen when I have no meal plans. The list goes on and on!"
What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?
"The teaching style is quite different than what I’m used to. Having done my studies in India and then doing my Bachelor’s in the UK, both had quite similar styles in teaching. For example, they both had only coursework all year with the exams during the last 2 months. But here, the teaching style changed a bit, the way notes are provided and textbook sections pointed out. This really helped me to refer to the books when revising. Exams are held immediately when the course ends and I was newly introduced to the concept of oral exams. I had never done this and didn’t know how to prepare for it. But one experience was all I needed. Swedish teaching has been more open and informal compared to my previous school and university experiences, which has helped me understand the content of my courses much better and encouraged me to learn more. "
How international is your programme?
"My programme was advertised as an English-speaking course. I would say there are about 10 international students in my course out of the total of 20-25, which is quite a good percentage. Most of the international students are from other countries in Europe and many are here on exchange. Some of us are from Asia and a few are from other parts of the world. But it is indeed a very diverse course taught 100% in English."
What are you most looking forward to in your programme?
"I’m looking forward to the next courses that I have chosen for next semester and what more I can learn from them. Maths in itself is so interesting and chaotic that it excites me to know what else I can learn to solve more of the unsolved problems that exists, if more mathematical connections can be made based on given theorems, or if there is some way I can apply everything I’ve learned to date. I’m sure with the mentorship of the faculty, I’ll be able to learn quite a lot. I’m also looking forward to the Master's thesis and all the opportunities this programme can bring to me.
Stay tuned! A more comprehensive testimonial from this student will be published once they have completed their first semester at Lund and have more insights to share about their programme.
Have more questions for Arpita?
You can chat with her and other current students directly via Unibuddy by clicking the card below.
"Students have a lot of freedom to choose courses"
Lea from Germany