What Spilios says about the Master's in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Change Adaptation

Spilios from Greece

What is your educational background?

"My educational background is in urban planning. I completed my Bachelor’s in Spatial Planning and Development at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki in Greece. Then I proceeded to do a Master’s in Sustainable Urban Planning and Design at KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm."

Why did you choose Lund University? What were your expectations before coming to Lund? Have they been fulfilled? What has surprised you?

"My shift of interest from planning towards disaster management beyond the urban setting coincided with the realisation that there was a Master’s programme at Lund University that focused on what I was looking for. The interdisciplinary approach to disaster risk management and climate change adaptation with a balance between theoretical and practical knowledge and development of skills, appealed to me.

The highly skilled and experienced in the field teaching staff play a major role in raising the educational standards and facilitating an interactive teaching setting that encourages students to think outside the box while challenging already existing knowledge. What positively surprised me beyond the programme structure, is the unique relationship between students and the teaching staff. We are encouraged by professors to actively network with other students and alumni from the programme as well as be involved in facilitating side activities such as guest lectures and networking events. Being a relatively small group of students that share the same academic interests and enthusiasm for the field, feels like being part of a well-tied “family” of future practitioners."

What does the programme entail?

"The programme structure is focused on creating bridges and links between the theoretical foundations of disaster risk management, the policy-making frameworks and the reality of practice. At the same time, the reality of climate change and its societal impacts are prominently linked to all courses in the programme. There is a balance between theory and practice both within every study period as well as within each course. Frequent seminars and exercises generate an interactive environment for students to develop problem-solving skills and reflect on real cases around disasters, and how societies can be better prepared to prevent, respond and finally adapt to the new realities and challenges of our era.

What I have also encountered is a balance between individual work and group projects that enhance team-working skills, something of vital importance in the field of disaster risk management. The programme so far has been quite challenging, which matches the reality of the field, but at the same time these challenges add to the excitement since every study period there is something new to learn and reflect on. A really important part of the programme and something that my classmates and I are looking forward to is the optional internship course in the fall semester of the second year."

Has the programme met your expectations so far? Motivate your answer.

"The expectations from the programme were relatively high. Being in my first year, I would say that so far, the reality exceeds my expectations. The main reason for this is the course structure, as it seems that with every study period that passes by, we are getting deeper into the field of disaster management and its associated challenges. The educational culture of Lund University and the programme itself as well as the motivated and enthusiastic teaching staff, are the main factors for the high academic standards."

What is the difference between being a student at LTH (Faculty of Engineering) compared to your previous university studies?

"A noticeable difference between these and my previous studies is the level of organisation. Even early on from the registration process, it was clear that LTH paid special attention to making new students feel at home. There is always detailed information available on every aspect of student life as well as the life in Lund and Sweden in general. What must also be mentioned is the very well organised and effective support and service response from LTH for every aspect of student life. The mentor system and the novice period in the beginning of the autumn semester help to get accustomed to the 'Swedish' way of living as well as to get to know new people from all around the world."

What do you do in your spare time?

"Lund, and the region of Skåne in general, offer a lot when it comes to side activities for students such as cosy cafés and exciting activities organised by the unique “nations” (student groups). Also, nature in Sweden is unique and beautiful all year round and I love going for long bike rides in the countryside. For those who once in a while want to explore bigger cities, there is always the chance to Malmö or Copenhagen, which are in close proximity to Lund."

Any other thoughts you have, that you think could be interesting to people applying for this programme?

"My advice to people who want to apply to this programme is that once you are accepted, take advantage of all the opportunities that the programme has to offer. Be open to new experiences and don’t hesitate to challenge yourself with new knowledge. I am looking forward to meeting you in person in Lund!"