What Channan says about the Master's in Master's programme in Environmental Management and Policy

Introducing Channan 

Hi! My name is Channan and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Environmental Management and Policy. 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.  

About the programme and the teaching style  

Why did you choose Lund University? 

"The primary reason why I chose to come to Lund was the strength of my chosen course: the Master’s in Environmental Management and Policy. It stood out to me for its word-of-mouth reputation, dual management and policy lens, as well as its focus on practical application. More broadly, Lund University is globally well-ranked for sustainability and the centrality of nature to Scandinavian culture really appealed to me." 

What do you think of your programme so far? Does it meet your expectations? 

"Although I had high expectations going in, the programme has surpassed them so far! The best sustainable solutions are holistic, so a strength of our course is that it covers a comprehensive range of topics. Whilst the programme can be fast paced, I view this as a positive because I am constantly engaged and learning new things."

What is the best thing about your programme? 

"My favourite thing about the EMP programme is that it is designed to not only help us draw out interconnections in what we learn, but also to apply our knowledge to topical problems. Reflected in the fact that the course has built-in consultancy or internship modules, we gain valuable insight into the actual work of sustainability professionals and develop the skillsets necessary to thrive in these spaces."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"Compared to my previous educational experience, the teaching style in Sweden is much more personable and interactive. I like that most of our classes are seminars which combine lecture-based teaching with class-led discussion. Not only do I have a more personal connection to my teachers, but I have also gotten to know my peers well because we have lots of opportunities for group work." 

How international is your programme? 

"One of the defining features of the EMP programme is its international composition. It’s rare to find more than a few individuals from the same country. My cohort has around 30 students whose roots span Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and Asia. The level of cross-cultural exchange, both in class discussions and outside of the classroom, is one of my favourite things about my time at Lund!"

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

"Whether it's case study based-projects, guest lectures from industry professionals and policymakers, or even knowledge-sharing sessions amongst our teachers and peers, the EMP programme is rooted in practical application. In fact, opportunities for practical experience are built into the course, with compulsory consultancy or internship modules on offer in both the first and second year."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"There are honestly too many reasons to list. In addition to everything I’ve mentioned about the practical and comprehensive nature of the course, I’ve been taken aback by the strength of the community I am now part of. Not only do current students and staff make a special effort to be inclusive and collaborative, but there’s also an active and engaged alumni community. Many people affectionately refer to our faculty as ‘the insti family’ because the connections and friendships built here can and do last a lifetime."

Thoughts on being an international student at Lund, spare time and tips for prospective students

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

"Although I’ve found it challenging to move to a different place to live and study, this has been eased by the strength of the student community here in Lund. Alongside an impressive range of student societies and associations, the student-run ‘nations’ act as the hub of student life. They run lots of daily activities, as well as special events throughout the semester. Since membership is affordable and open to anyone, I’ve found that getting involved with the nations is a great way to meet other internationals and make Swedish friends."

What do you do in your spare time? 

"Although my course keeps me busy during the week, I am a very active person and go to the gym or play sports regularly. I also enjoy reading – especially when I can make use of Lund’s many libraries. When I have time off over the weekend, I love discovering new places with my friends. The public transport system here makes it easy to travel across Skåne, or even to visit more northern parts of Sweden. If I fancy a trip to Denmark, Copenhagen is only an hour’s train ride away!"

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

"I’ve already made so many brilliant memories but one thing I especially treasure is the chances I’ve had to learn about different cultures. I loved attending Lund’s culture festival in September, as well as the Advent and easter festivities because I learned a lot about Swedish history and traditions. I’ve now grown to love regular fikas! Alongside this, sharing recipes and stories through student-organised potlucks and culture nights in my faculty has been a real highlight." 

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

"Of course, I would encourage them to come. Lund may be small, but it has so much to offer! Nonetheless, moving somewhere new is a big decision and it’s important to bear in mind that finding the ‘right fit’ for you isn’t just a matter of choosing the best course. It’s also about whether life in Lund would align with your financial situation, your lifestyle, etc. Make use of the admissions team’s insight events and the student ambassador chat function because we are here to ensure you can really gain a picture of life in Lund."

Have more questions for Channan? 

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