Introducing Manuel

Hi! My name is Manuel and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Biotechnology. I am happy to answer questions you might have about the programme, courses, student life, life in Lund and Sweden. Please note that I cannot answer questions about the application process, scholarships or residence permits.

My Master's adventure

My path to Lund University started in the last semester of my Bachelor’s. I was studying Chemical Engineering at Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. During that period, I started thinking to take a step further in my education. First, I came up with the idea of studying a postgraduate programme in biotechnology. In the last year of my Bachelor’s, I started doing academic and industrial research in biotechnology, specifically in bioprocesses, and fell in love with it. I then looked up some good universities in biotechnology and Lund University showed up. When analysing the programme more in depth, I discovered the learning process would be very flexible and I could focus more on bioprocesses. Besides, as a very big plus, Sweden and Lund have a well-developed industry and extensive knowledge related to biotechnology.

One year after starting my studies at Lund University, I can say I have so far found it exceptional. I had the opportunity to decide what I wanted to learn, have fun and meet new people. Since you can choose what you want to learn and have a couple of very useful mandatory courses, you get to enjoy the experience. Also, you get to do a lot while studying and LTH offers you a lot of opportunities to get new experiences. You will have opportunities and events such as assisting with seminars, gathering with other students to do some exercise, or get some ‘fika’ (coffee with pastries).

When you come to Lund, there are some things you should know beforehand, but for me there is only one that is very essential. Be prepared for the darkness in winter, especially if you come from a tropical country like me, where you get the same amount of sunlight throughout the year. I found that the best way to overcome the darkness in winter is to keep yourself busy and get together with friends when the sun sets. Find hobbies such as painting, exercising, reading, cooking or baking, to fill your free time.