Interview
Meet Jeroen from Belgium
Name: Jeroen De Roeck
Home Country and City: Kontich, Belgium
Home University: University of Antwerp (UA)
Programme (or major subject) of Study: Land- and Forest Management
Favourite thing about Umeå University: very student-oriented
Favourite Swedish word or custom: the way you greet everybody: hej! It’s short and funny. And fika, of course!
Three words to summarise your time in Umeå: friends, nature and snow
Why did you choose to study at Umeå University?
I chose to study in Sweden because I study forest management, and Sweden has a lot of forest. I wanted to visit an environment that I usually do not encounter in Belgium, so the boreal forest in the north of Sweden was perfect for this. Also, Umeå University has a very good name in regards to International Students and exchange programmes.
What do you like most about your programme or courses?
The fact that we get a lot of different perspectives on the subject of ecosystem conservation; the course is not only focused on the conservation of forests per se, but also gives the social and economical dimensions. It gives a well adapted image of what we will be confronted with if we take our experiences to the ‘real world’.
What do you do when you are not studying?
Usually I hang out with my friends of the Buddy Programme. We have a very active group, and there is an activity at least once a week. Or we just meet up on weekdays to have pancakes or fika, or go to karaoke together. And we try to meet every Sunday for a volleyball match to close the week.
What has been your most memorable moment so far?
The trip to Jokkmokk was pretty impressive, but the most memorable was the night we went out to the lake to see the northern lights. We made a campfire, had a great evening and we got a beautiful view of the lights. It was great!
What is your impression of Umeå and the surrounding areas?
Umeå is a very beautiful city, both the urban as the rural areas. I think there is a very good mix of green areas in the city. And the river gives a very open feeling. The fact that the university is separate from the city centre can be both positive and negative.
What do you find as the biggest cultural difference, both socially and educationally, from your country with Sweden?
The people can be somewhat distant at first, but when you ask for it they are always prepared to help you. Also the teachers are always prepared to help you if you have a question, and they are very close to the students.
What would you say or what advice would you give to another international student thinking of attending Umeå University?
Don’t think about it, just do it! It will be an unforgettable experience, you will make lots of friends and you will visit a unique and beautiful environment. Plus, it will be great for your education and your development!
What are your career aspirations?
To work in a company or governmental organisation that involves land management.
