Why did you choose this programme?
– I was looking for a master’s that would deepen my background in cognition while leaving room to explore other areas of psychology. I also wanted to challenge myself at a competitive university. When I was offered a place with a scholarship covering tuition and living costs, I knew it was an opportunity I shouldn’t turn down.
What was the best thing about the Master's programme?
– One of the best parts was studying with brilliant colleagues from all over the world, people who broadened my research perspectives and became friends for life. I was also fortunate to work with supervisors who treated me as a future colleague, some of whom are now my collaborators. Throughout it all, I felt supported by the program coordinators – warm, reliable adults for those of us who were far from home.
Were you able to gain any practical experience during your studies?
– During my time as the University’s Instagram ambassador, I promoted the Memory Lab on my initiative, which led to a connection who later became my thesis supervisor. There, I gained practical experience with eye-tracking and EEG methods. I also worked as a teaching assistant, which helped me secure my current PhD role. Beyond formal studies, I was a Novisch Coordinator in LISP (Lund’s International Society of Psychology Students), through which I gained experience in event management. Being a Lund student also gave me the platform to co-found Hub AI, a start-up focused on demystifying AI for students and matching them with professional opportunities in the field. As a co-founder and secretary, I learned about legal matters, administration and start-up business strategies.
What have the biggest challenges been?
– One of the biggest challenges was working with topics I wasn’t familiar with from before, such as programming for statistics. Luckily, I felt comfortable asking for help from more experienced classmates and got their support. Beyond academics, another challenge was building a life in a new country while staying connected to home.
What was it like to be an international student at Lund University? What have you enjoyed the most?
– Being an international student at Lund University made me feel taken care of. There is a strong focus on helping students get involved in communities in ways that feel natural and accessible. The student culture is so well developed that it feels like a world of its own. It was special finding myself in the middle of such an environment.
What have you learned from living and studying in Sweden and what surprised you the most about Swedes?
– It was inspiring to see how hard work and enjoyment naturally coexist in Swedish culture. Being ambitious, disciplined, and driven does not exclude having fun or resting.
Do you have any advice for other students that are considering doing the Master’s?
– My advice is simple: go for it! Even if you haven’t studied at a top-ranked university before, what matters in the selection process are your individual academic and societal efforts. One important tip: reach out to the current students or alumni before applying. For example, find them through the UniBuddy platform or by attending the LISP events. There are people who are keen to meet you, and many will share honest reflections on their experience. You've got this!
Melikas 3 best tips for international students planning to study at Lund University.
1. Take advantage of connecting with the senior students who volunteer to guide you.
2. Embrace the unfamiliar and don’t let the initial overwhelm of living in a new place derail you from the higher goal. Stepping into a new version of yourself can feel uncomfortable, but it will be rewarding.
3. Enjoy as many student activities as you can – this time only comes once! Have fun!