Meet Kreske

What years did you study at USBE?

I studied the Master's Programme in Statistics 2017- 2018.
Autumn semester 2014 and autumn semester 2016-Spring semester 2017 for my Bachelors.

Kreske Ecker

ImageRickard Lindberg

What was it that made you apply for the programme here in Umeå?

I originally moved to Umeå to study Sociology, and I had already also done my Bachelor’s in Statistics at USBE before I applied for the Master’s courses. The courses that were offered fit very well with what I wanted to do, so I saw no reason to move somewhere else. I also was able to work part time as a teaching assistant at the statistics department during my Master’s, which was a really great learning experience. 

What is it that you liked best with the program?

The courses are well organized and hold a high quality. The student groups are small and the teachers are really interested in your success in the courses. I also liked that you have some choices in which courses to take, so that you can adjust your programme according to your interests and future plans. I already knew I wanted to continue as a PhD student, so I took more theoretical courses, but there are other courses that might be a better fit if you want to work with applied statistics after your degree.

What is it that you like best about Umeå?

When I initially moved here, there was a vibrant music scene and I really like the culture of grass-roots activism that has been around for a long time up here. It’s not a very large city, so living here isn’t stressful and you can get around easily by bike for example. At the same time, it’s big enough to have basically everything you need, restaurants, shopping, sports and other activities. You’re never far away from nature and the northern lights are something you absolutely have to experience at least once in your lifetime. 

Is there any unexpected side of Swedish culture that you would like to tell us about?

At least in Umeå, people don’t often argue about which sports team is best, but rather about the correct name for pancakes.

Do you have any advice to German students that are thinking of applying to our programs?

If you think you’d enjoy staying in Umeå and the courses sound interesting, you should definitely apply! If you’re unsure about things, just ask someone. Academic culture obviously varies between different countries, so taking a Master's in Sweden could be different from what you’re used to. It doesn’t hurt to check beforehand about what is expected of you e.g., in terms of individual study time, attendance, etc. 

How do you think your stay in Umeå contributed to your career?

I am currently working towards a PhD at the same department where I took my Master's,  so for me it has contributed a lot. But I also think that if you have completely different career plans, studying here is a valuable experience. At the Statistics department, there are lots of collaborations both with researchers from other departments and countries, and other projects outside the university. Don’t be afraid to talk to your teachers about your career plans, they might have great advice!