Meet Laith from the United Arab Emirates
Name: Laith Hussain-Alkhateeb
Home Country and City: Dubai, UAE
Programme of Study: Master\'s Programme in Global/ Public Health (MPH)
Favourite thing about Umeå University: the Universum Building
Favourite Swedish word or custom: Jusste, hejsan, fika and tack!
Three words to summarise your time in Umeå: Three S\'s: Study – Sport – Socializing
Why did you choose to study at Umeå University?
When I made my application through to studera and received my acceptance offers, I had to make a choice among other offers from Swedish universities. I finally, went for Umeå University for several reasons:
First, it was the fact that Umeå University showed more interesting program courses and materials in terms of variety, structure and future applications. Second, I thought it will be more interesting to experience the real Nordic life moving to the north after spending some time in Stockholm. Finally, a city like Umeå will create a super environment for a student life, a statement endorsed by my brother who is currently enjoying his dentistry programme since two years at Umeå University.
What do you like most about your programme?
I like the international context of our programme since more than 25 different nationalities are among our class mates. I also favor the fact that it allows specialization within the Global/ Public Health different disciplines. On the other hand, the consistency and nice sequence of our courses gave it a special taste.
What has been your most memorable moment about the programme so far?
The very first lecture during our induction week was very special and made a great impact on my programme start. I also keep a good memory of our group discussions and presentations which were always interesting.
What do you do when you’re not studying?
I still have several options to choose from while I am having a study-free time. Since I am member at IKSU, (our largest sport centre in the Nordic countries) I tend to spend some good time there enjoying my favourite sports like Squash, volleyball and of course ending my day with the sauna bath.
It is also so easy to find yourself in a party. Corridor parties, club parties and buddy groups parties are always there to join when you want.
Fika! This is the minimum you can do where I really enjoy by sharing some good time with friends and new people over a warm cup of coffee.
What you like best about the town of Umeå and its surroundings?
Umeå is in the centre of Sweden. This gives it unique location to make a road trip choosing either the north or the south direction. With entertaining ferry, you can spend only few hours before you are in Finland. The most special for me was the opportunity to see the northern light here in Umeå. I must also say I love the people here, they so friendly, sociable and welcoming.
What do you find as the biggest cultural difference, both socially and educationally, from your country with Sweden?
I find my relations with our teachers and lecturers are different here. It is not very common to be very close to your teacher in my home country; however, this was not the case at Umeå University. The department staffs were very flexible and easily approachable by all students.
What you would say to another international student thinking of attending Umeå University?
It is certainly a unique experience: different weather, people, culture and definitely special fun! I highly recommend it.
What are you career aspirations?
Being a “health professional” I like to implement my recent academic knowledge and past career experience in a research programme that contribute to Global Public Health on international level.
