Albert Montañez from the USA and Colombia

Why did you choose the specialisation in Culture and Creativity Management?  

"I am a classical artist with a vast experience in education and performance, but I felt I wanted to have a better understanding of nonprofit organisations in Europe and culture and creativity perspectives in Scandinavia. I also wanted to have knowledge of governmental policies for the arts in Scandinavia."
 
What is the best thing about your programme?  

"I think the best thing about the programme is the diversity of the students and the teachers. It is an international group of people discussing relevant topics on culture, creativity and the arts."
 
What do you think of the teaching style?  

"I think the seminar-based activities are great. You can interact with colleagues and also get your point of view heard. It is a brand new specialisation and I think more real interaction with cultural organisations would enhance the programme greatly."
 
What are you planning to do after your studies?

"I'm planning to continue with my performance career and also focus on having my own production company that will present contemporary opera in Scandinavia, the United States and Central Europe."
 
What do you do in your spare time?

"There is not much spare time during my studies but when I have the time to relax, I like to go to the sauna – Kallbadhus – and swim in the cold Baltic ocean."
 
What is it like to live in Sweden and what have you learned from it so far?

"I love Sweden. I think it’s a great country where people are very friendly and always willing to help. Sweden is not only a beautiful country with great landscapes but also a place where people are warm – just give them some time to open up. I love the city landscapes of Malmö and Stockholm but I also love the countryside, especially in Skåne. I have learned some Swedish and I hope to keep improving my language skills so I can become part of the culture."
 
Do you have any advice for students considering to study at Lund University and Campus Helsingborg?

"Lund University is a great university – I would highly recommend to come study here. I have studied in other countries but I feel that Helsingborg as a city has a lot to offer for me in this stage of my life. A small city with natural beauty but also a space where I can create my own project and where I feel supported by the city. Swedes are always interested in culture so it is a great create and be heard. You can always make your experience pleasant if you put yourself out there."