What Rodrigo says about the Master's in Social Anthropology

Introducing Rodrigo 

Hi! My name is Rodrigo and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Social Anthropology. 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 had been searching for an opportunity to study abroad, and Sweden caught my attention due to its efforts on equality and the environment. As I have previously participated in various projects and fieldwork relating to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professionals was the perfect match for someone with my background. At first, I was deciding between Lund and Uppsala, as both offer exceptional sustainability programmes. However, after careful consideration, my family and I fell in love with Lund and felt it was the best place for us and our daughter."

The programme and the teaching style

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

"The programme’s structure is logical, and we have plenty of autonomy over our schedule. It is essential to distinguish it from free time. It provides the proper balance of established and contemporary research methods, giving us both the fundamentals and the freedom to explore innovative ideas. This is precisely what I was hoping for, and I appreciate the approach taken by the programme."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"Based on my experience so far, the professors genuinely encourage students to participate and share their ideas during class. We are also granted significant autonomy when selecting the texts and books we will use for our writing and presentations. Collaborative studies and group work foster independence and empower students to lead. The tradition of taking a fika break during class and talking with students while drinking a coffee is a means of building rapport and gaining insight into their academic progress within a broader context."

How international is your programme? 

"In our first course, we had a small class of a dozen students but still, there were people from seven different countries and five continents, which I found amazing. The diversity of backgrounds is a fantastic element, especially for the richness of points of view and personal experiences, which may result here and there in diverse case studies to analyse in a field like ours. Beyond breaking stereotypes, we find ourselves in the same boat; away from our home culture, family, and friends, which creates bonds between us. Sharing our tastes in literature or music, trying new foods and drinks, and finding new ways to prepare them while debating our scientific and political views are most exciting."

What are you most looking forward to in your programme? 

"After spending 20 years as a professional anthropologist in Brazil, I am working on a long-term study project to integrate social and environmental aspects into my research. I have learned that most nature-based solutions to the climate crisis are closely linked with traditional knowledge applied to everyday needs such as food, shelter, and water. I am still trying to understand how contemporary anthropology addresses this in academia, but I hope to contribute with my previous professional experience. Above all, I plan to apply my knowledge to support indigenous territorial rights and access to sustainable project financing."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"The programme offers a lot in terms of methodology. We have highly competent and experienced professors, and in each country, Anthropology has different traditions, focuses and works with different authors, which makes the learning experience enriching."

Being an international student in Lund and advice for future students

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

"The opportunity to study at Lund University is unique because of the connections you can make with international students from diverse and interesting backgrounds. Not only the University but also the city has quite an international environment. It has also been a great way to experience Swedish culture. Many people mistake culture for folklore or national identity, but what I’ve seen here is more about values like openness, equity, innovation, and environmental awareness."

What do you do in your spare time? 

"I like to go to playgrounds with my daughter and spending time outdoors. Hiking is still a bit challenging for her because of her young age, but there are many fascinating places we explore by bike. It is possible to bike safely to other cities, farms and the beach. I am also involved in activities with sustainability organisations as part of my fieldwork, as well as being part of social hubs, the Lund Student Ambassador Programme, the Student Union and so on." 

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

"My experience was completely different from what I have heard from other people. The darkness during winter, the rain, and the strong winds were not exactly pleasant but were not major challenges. I really enjoyed playing in the snow with my daughter, although we did not have it for many days. Making friends was also not that difficult. I made many friends, including Swedish friends, which made things much easier. Additionally, the city is the perfect size, offers great mobility, and has wonderful green spaces like parks and playgrounds. It’s an amazingly beautiful place."

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

"It is a bit challenging to understand how things work in an entirely different bureaucracy. Things are not explained in much detail, and I have the impression that even the Swedes don't get the whole picture. However, my biggest challenge was the cost of living, even with a good scholarship. If you come from the Global South, it is essential to prepare for this.

Also, be active and get involved with Student Nations, Unions, and social hubs. Language Cafés are also great places to meet new people, though it can be hard to find time for all these activities. I recommend people to go to one or two of them."

Have more questions for Rodrigo? 

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