Meet Jakub from the Czech Republic
Name: Jakub Jaroš
Home Country and City: Ústí nad Labem, Czech Republic
Home University: University of Economics, Prague
Programme of Study: Business Administration
Favourite thing about Umeå University: lots of space for sitting, talking, relaxation
Favourite Swedish word or custom: fika
Three words to summarise your time in Umeå: traveling, nature, relax
Why did you choose to study at Umeå University?
I was looking for a university with high quality business department and also not busy and hectic place for living. For me, Umeå University is a really nice place for studying and as I have met many students from all over Sweden studying in Umeå. I know I chose well.
What do you like most about your courses?
Compared to the Czech education system, I really appreciate that here in Sweden students are expected to use all the theory in practical seminars, researches and papers. I think this is the best way to remember as much as possible knowledge from the course.
What has been your most memorable moment about the courses so far?
I made my record of staying in the library; I stayed there almost the whole day spent by reading and writing during the sunny day. But I must say that next few days I spent on travelling with my friends.
What do you do when you’re not studying?
I really enjoy the nice nature right around Umeå accessible on bike. When the weather gets bad, I go to IKSU with my friends to play some group games. I have also traveled a lot around Sweden, Denmark and Norway and I honestly can say that Umeå provides students with really good opportunities for social, physical and also cultural activities.
What you like best about the town of Umeå and its surroundings?
As I live in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, I have really enjoyed the relaxing life style and high living standard in Umeå. I can go everywhere and fast by bike, into city centre, shopping centre or to countryside, like Nydala Lake. I really like the net of bicycle paths here.
What do you find as the biggest cultural difference, both socially and educationally, from your country with Sweden?
Although some say that Swedish people are cold and reserved my experience with them is really positive. I was surprised that people try to help me immediately when I look a bit confused, although I did not ask them for a help. Sadly, the helpfulness and friendliness between strange people is generally on the low level in my country.
What you would say to another international student thinking of attending Umeå University?
Umeå is a fine choice for studying abroad. You will find here not only great university, but also great opportunities for parties or trips, just everything you expect from your study abroad!
What are you career aspirations?
I am finishing my master in few months, but I would like to continue my “campus life” with PhD study in the Czech Republic. I think this is the unique opportunity to study abroad again and discover new countries and continents. Maybe I will come to Umeå once more doing my research in few years. We will see.
