"I haven’t met a single exchange student who has regretted coming to Umeå"

Simon Giasson from the University of Manitoba, Canada, was an exchange studentat Umeå University during the Autumn 2024 semester.

ImageDavid Meyers

Why did you choose Umeå University?

I’m drawn to smaller cities and was eager to experience life in Sweden. Umeå offers a vibrant and adventurous community, especially during the winter months, with plenty of activities and events to enjoy. The campus itself is stunning, and the academic environment, along with the top-notch facilities, makes it an inspiring place to study.

What do you like most about your studies in Umeå?

I like the recreation facilities on and near campus. IKSU sport, a short walk from campus, is a large athletic complex where you can work out, swim and play a variety of sports. The study/recreation balance is phenomenal.

What is one difference between education in your home country and education in Sweden?

In Canada, we take many (usually 5) courses at a time. In Sweden, at the master’s level usually only one course is taken at a time. I like this method as it allows you to focus more on a given subject at a time, getting more in depth into the material.

What has been the most challenging aspect of your exchange experience? 

Academically, I find differences in the education style. For example, there is a greater emphasis on working independently and exploring a topic yourself, instead of being presented a lot of information from the start. Although difficult to adapt to at first, I appreciate the opportunity this provides for working with peers and building research and presentation skills. 

What has been the most memorable moment so far?

Seeing the Northern Lights at lake Lake Nydala (Nydalasjön) one of my first nights here.

What do you like do when you are not studying?

Sports! I joined Rugby and Cross-country Skiing (Längskidor) groups with IKSU and spend a lot of time in the gym working out or playing beach volleyball. In the evenings, Lake Nydala is a beautiful spot to swim and see the Northern Lights.

What are your favourite spots around Umeå and/or campus?

On Campus, the library has lots of cozy spots to get some studying in, as well as the café upstairs beside the library. IKSU sport also has some good space for school-work. In the city cenre, the Kulturbageriet is a beautiful café styled like a large, open-air patio that has great Fika!

What will you miss most about studying here at Umeå University?

I’ll miss the great friends I’ve made here. Not everyone wants to study in a northern part of Sweden and endure the dark winter months. I got to meet a lot of interesting people from around the world who have similar interests, values, and hobbies.

What would you say or what advice would you give to another international student thinking of attending Umeå University?

I haven’t met a single exchange student who has regretted coming to Umeå. If you want to meet great people and enjoy unique experiences you can’t get elsewhere, Umeå is the right choice. Make sure to sign up for the housing queue early, so you can get a residence near the university.