Interview
Meet Jieru from China
Name: Jieru Dong
From: Tangshan, China
Programme of Study: Master’s Program in Tourism
Personal Interests: Reading, movies, music and travelling
Favourite thing about Umeå: The snow, fresh air and fika
Favourite Swedish word or custom: Hej. Hur är det med dig? Tack så mycket.
What’s it like to study at Umeå University?
Umeå University attaches great importance to the opinion of students and provides you so much to help your study or research. You get the most freedom of thought and expression while studying in Umeå. The course seminars bring together all the students for focusing on the particular subject, in which everyone is highly encouraged to present their own ideas and communicate with the others. Only one course a time let you concentrate on the subject that you are studying, and don’t get distract from other courses.
Your impression of Umeå and the surrounding areas?
Even though I have been in Scandinavia for 4 years before I came to Umeå, living in Umeå is still very unique and impressive for me. Especially the beautiful and comfortable summer, the snow in winter, and the nature show me such a wonderful place which has much fun and cool stuff. If you are scared about the cold and gloomy winters here, trust me that we could make big differences of it. The skiing centre at Bygdsiljumsbacken will offer you 11 well-prepared ski runs of all degrees of difficulty, no matter you are the new player or you are the champion of skiing. And also the Snowshoes and Dog team sledging are the great ways of experiencing winter countryside. Today, I heard about that Umeå will be the European capital of culture in 2014, congratulations!!
What you like best about the town of Umeå and its surroundings?
Sweden is far away from China. But I do not feel lonely here; Swedish hospitality welcomes all the international friends. The unique and ideal surroundings guide me through a meaningful journey in my life. There are many interesting activities which lead me to forget about the darkness and coldness in winter. “Fika” is my favorite here, a cup coffee, delicious cake and some friends who come from the different places around the world compose such a nice weekend afternoon.
What you would say to another international student thinking of attending Umeå University?
Studying in Umeå University is very helpful and wonderful educational experience for me, which enrich my perceptions and knowledge towards the world. The silent and natural environment could be pretty ideal for you to focus on your study and have good relaxation as well. Don’t be hesitating, you will enjoy the international ambiance. Come on to experience this life and education in Umeå.
