What Vappu says about the Master's in Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science

Introducing Vappu 

Hi! My name is Vappu and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science. 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 chose Lund University primarily because of my interest in the programme (Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science, a.k.a. LUMES) itself. After completing my Bachelor’s degree in public administration, I knew I wanted to specialise in sustainability but in a science-oriented and multidisciplinary fashion to get a more comprehensive understanding of the various complexities of environmental issues; hence LUMES seemed like the perfect option. Moreover, I wanted to move to a place that is not only truly international but is also a student city with rich student life and opportunities. Additionally, the fact that Lund University is known for its high-quality research and education also motivated me to come here."

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

"So far, LUMES has been nothing short of amazing. Already within the first eight weeks we have touched upon so many different aspects of sustainability and have learned about a large variety of environmental issues, which has taken me by surprise. However, I was not expecting to have as many lectures as we do, although I view it as a positive thing as they not only complement the readings and assignments, but they also give a clear baseline understanding of that day’s topic. Moreover, I think we have a very strong community feeling at LUCSUS (our research institute, the ‘headquarters’ of LUMES) amongst students (between first- and second-year students) as well as staff. I feel like everybody truly looks after one another and helps each other out. All in all, LUMES has met my expectations, and I truly feel like I am in the right programme for me with inspiring, like-minded people."

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

"The main highlight has been our field trip to Breanäs as a part of the first course in my programme. Not only did we get the opportunity to apply the acquired knowledge ‘out there’ in practice, but I also felt it was a wholesome bonding experience between everyone that brought us all closer together. In addition to this, other highlights include getting to experience my first ‘sittning’, joining a choir and meeting new people there, going to an extremely fun karaoke night at Smålands (one of the many Student Nations), and attending big events, such as the Malmö Festival, Kulturnatten, and the Alnarp Harvest Fest."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"So far, I have thoroughly enjoyed the Swedish teaching style. In my personal experience, most people tend to study from morning until sometime in the afternoon, which leaves the evening free for you to do whatever you want or need: to socialise, do sports, join student activities and events, or just simply to relax. Therefore, the Swedish concept of ‘lagom’ (‘not too much, not too little’) is very prominent and I feel contributes to a healthy work-life balance. Furthermore, what has been a very positive surprise is the emphasis on understanding the big picture, on having space for your own critical thinking, and on group learning. I’ve felt that these aspects have contributed to better learning outcomes for me, as opposed to memory-based and individual learning, which most of my previous education has consisted of."

How international is your programme? 

"In general, LUMES is a very international programme. My ‘batch’ (meaning the specific admitted group each year) consists of 59 students, me included, from more than 24 different countries from almost all continents. However, the most popular nationalities across the most recent LUMES batches tend to be German, Danish, Hungarian and Italian."

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

"I think one of the biggest highlights of my studies so far has been a practical course called ‘Knowledge to Action’. For six months, we were developing a sustainability initiative in groups to attempt to solve a real-life local sustainability issue. Getting to work on such a hands-on project was not only exciting and motivating in itself, but it was also a very meaningful chance to apply theoretical knowledge about sustainability science in society."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"Prospective students should consider applying to LUMES (Environmental Studies and Sustainability Science) because it is a truly interdisciplinary Master’s programme that integrates various practices across academia, which I believe is extremely useful and necessary in the field of sustainability. You also learn a lot from your peers because admitted students tend to have a very diverse and wide range of (academic) backgrounds, so everyone has such inspiring approaches and toolkits to academic research and knowledge. In addition, LUMES really is a big family at the end of the day. We have a strong community feeling amongst both students and staff. I feel like everybody truly looks after one another and helps each other out." 

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

"Lund University and the city of Lund are very welcoming to international students! Locals and Swedish students typically speak very good English, and many student events and nations are accessible even if you don’t speak Swedish. Additionally, since a significant proportion of students at Lund University are international it is very easy to connect with other internationals!"

What do you do in your spare time? 

"In my spare time, I mostly do sports at Gerdahallen (a gym on campus that loads of students go to) and attend Gudrunkören’s weekly choir practice. Regarding nations (social clubs), I also go to student lunches at Kalmar Nation, to People’s Kitchen at Smålands, and occasionally volunteer at nations’ pubs or clubs. Other than that, I am part of organising events for the newly founded Queer Independent Collective, and I enjoy having 'fika' (coffee break) or dinner with my friends!"

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

"One of the most memorable moments so far has been performing at Lucia concert organised by my choir last December – it was a truly magical way to experience the national holiday! Additionally, another national holiday, Valborg, was definitely the standout festivity during the spring semester. In terms of studies, our two field trips – one to Breanäs and another to Söderåsen National Park - were really exciting ways to not only bond with my peers but also to learn more in the context of my courses."

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

"Firstly, get a bike! Having a bike is not only a fast but also a cost-efficient and fun means of transportation around Lund (and Skåne). You can get to everywhere in the city easily and affordably with a bike. Secondly, yes, the rumours are true: it gets dark during winter times. But remembering to take care of yourself and socialise even during dark hours is a game-changer! Thirdly, it’s important to maintain a healthy and good work-life balance."

Have more questions for Vappu? 

You can chat with her/them and other current students directly via Unibuddy by clicking the card below.

Vappu also made a video where she asks her classmates to describe the programme in one word, check it out:

Describing my programme in just one word – youtube.com