"You'd be making a mistake if you don't go to Umeå"

How did you choose to study abroad at Umeå University? And what do you know about Sweden prior to coming here?

I chose to study at Umeå since I had limited options available for my specific situation, and it came down between Sweden and Japan. I chose Sweden since I actually knew almost nothing about it and thought it would be more fun to go somewhere most people (at least in the U.S.) don't normally hear about. My lack of knowledge is what drove my decision to go somewhere I knew so little about. I also don't mind the winter, and oh boy, is a Swedish winter much different from a winter in Ohio.

What are your fondest memories from your time as a student at Umeå University? 

Jesse West experiencing the Northern Lights in Umeå.

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Seeing the northern lights for the first time was absolutely incredible and just a crazy experience, seeing the intense light movement right above Lake Nydala. I absolutely loved every international pub we went to because I love busting out some moves on a dancefloor. One of my best memories is what I did every week with friends: going to a different bar each night of the week for trivia and karaoke. Another great memory was staying in Sweden after school ended to spend my 21st birthday in Umeå with friends from all around the world for one last fun night out before coming home. I also can't forget volunteering at Valborg and Brännbollsyran to truly experience Swedish celebrations.

What have you beeing doing to your study abroad semester at Umeå University?

Since my semester in Umeå was my last semester in college, I came home to immediately start my job search. I luckily found a job and even started something of my own called ratemytravels.com. Based on my experience in Sweden and traveling to other countries while I was there, I came up with the idea to create a website where travelers can rate trips they’ve been on and share specific advice for places they’ve been to. RateMyTravels is for travelers helping travelers have better trips and keep track of their own. You can find advice for a place you want to go from people who’ve already been there and rate your own trips to help others know what a place is really like.

What does your current role look like?

I’m a marketing associate for one of the biggest plant container companies in the horticulture industry. I manage our tradeshows and coordinate the development of marketing materials while ensuring brand consistency. For fun, I work part time at our NFL stadium in Cleveland as field security so I can be right next to the stage at concerts and be on the field during other cool events. 

What are your career goals for the next 5 years?

It’s really hard to say. I’ve had so many different jobs in various industries and roles. I really enjoy events, entertainment, and travel. If I can find a way to stay in one of those areas and mix marketing into them, I’d be in a great place. I also plan to keep growing my travel website into a go-to resource that travelers check before every trip, helping them travel smarter and safer.

There isn’t bad weather, only bad clothes.

What would you tell someone thinking about studying at Umeå University?

I would absolutely tell you that you’d be making a mistake if you DON’T go. The city is mostly full of students and the university has a huge base of international students, so you’ll make friends fast and easily. Make sure to join the buddy program too for plenty of fun events and to initially meet people. Don’t worry about the winter because as any Swede would say, “there isn’t bad weather, only bad clothes.” I have to admit though, it is worth the kronor for the bus pass for a semester during the winter and when you’re out late having fun.