What Mary says about the Master's in Cultural Criminology

To Cultural Criminology - Master of Science programme

Introducing Mary

Hi! My name is Mary and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Cultural Criminology. 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?

"To be honest, I initially only applied to Lund by chance. A friend had applied, and I thought, why not give it a try? In the end, he wasn't accepted but I was. Now I'm glad I decided to apply so spontaneously. I'm very happy with the decision to come here."

What are your first impressions of your programme? Does it meet your expectations?

"I didn't have that many expectations for the programme. The Master’s in Cultural Criminology in Lund is relatively new, so I had never heard of it before. Now, after a few months, I am very happy and excited about the programme. The lecturers are passionate about the field, the topics are challenging but super interesting, and the community among the students is great."

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

"Moving to Sweden in general was (and still is) a highlight for me. I've never been to a Scandinavian country before and there are so many things to explore and learn. Also, meeting new people from all over the world is definitely a highlight. The student life in Lund is thriving and there is always something going on. It's easy to get in touch with people. The course itself is also a highlight for me."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden?

"The Swedish teaching style is very different from what I was used to in both Germany and Ireland. To be honest, it took me a while to adjust to it. There is very little hierarchy, the learning concept is much more focused on independence and group work. Students are encouraged to contribute with their own ideas and interests and many of the tasks are problem oriented. In the beginning, I had a hard time managing my time, but in the end, I think it's a great concept. "

How international is your programme?

"I would say about half of the students are international. The course language is English and as it is most people's second language the struggle is pretty much the same for everyone."

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

"In the course of my studies, I was able to gain practical experience both through elective courses and an internship. In the first year of the Master's programme, one module each semester is practical-oriented. We learned how to conduct anthropological/sociological research using methods such as digital ethnography and interviewing techniques. In my third semester, I interned at the Department of Sociology at Lund University and worked on an active research project. I got to interview, transcribe, and analyse data myself and secured valuable insights into the academic research process."

Why should prospective students choose this programme?

"Prospective students should consider the Master's in Cultural Criminology because of its unique take on deviant behaviour, the atmosphere in the Cult Crim community, and the research opportunities offered in the course. We look at matters of crime from an anthropological perspective. Instead of focusing on the procession and law aspects of crime, we explore the thrills of crime and look at the positive aspects that deviant behaviour can have for social groups."

What is it like being an international student at Lund University?

"Being an international student in Lund is a process of ups and downs that is as individual as the students themselves. I am very happy I got to meet so many amazing people along the way and exchange experiences with new friends from all over the world. It can sometimes be hard to fit into the often cold atmosphere of Swedish society, but opening up to new customs and giving yourself time to adjust is definitely worth it. I’ve found a warm and inspiring community of students here in Lund."

What do you do in your spare time?

"In my spare time, I train Muay Thai and try to go hiking whenever the weather allows it. I got to meet many people from all over the world and as some of them have already moved on to another country, I travel a lot and visit my friends in different places. Once a week, I cook comfort dishes with my friends and exchange recipes."

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

"The biggest highlights of my first year were all the little adventures I go with my friends. I got to explore my new home and made many happy memories. A specific highlight might have been the holiday called Valborg as I have never seen Lund so vibrant. Midsommer and Lucia Fest were other Swedish festive occasions that left a strong impression on me during my first year."

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

"My advice to new students is to be kind to yourself and not stress too much about making friends or fitting in. You can’t attend every social activity in Lund – there are so many! Sometimes, it’s better to focus on deepening connections with the people you’ve already met and enjoy spending time with, rather than trying to meet as many people as possible. That said, I encourage you to explore what Lund has to offer for your interests. There’s almost always a group of people who share your hobbies, and joining clubs and nations can be incredibly rewarding."