Meet Lukas

What have you been working with since graduating?

I decided to stay in Sweden and moved to Stockholm. Now I am part of the Graduate Leadership Programme for SAAB AB, where I am employed as a Digital Learning and Development Specialist.

Lukas Richter

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

Three things: The first reason was the programme itself. I have a practical background in business development, and I wanted to complement this practical knowledge by the incidental theory. The second reason was the good reputation of Swedish education and the third one was the possibility of an adventure in the far north.

What is it that you liked with the program?

Again, there have been three bigger things I liked. The first one was the international aspect. Not only were my fellow students from all over the world but many of the teaching staff had an international background as well. Furthermore, the way of teaching has a very hands-on approach. From day one, you have to work together in groups, prepare presentations or solve business problems for companies. Finally, yet importantly is the close contact with the teachers. They are easy to reach out to and try to help you in case you have a problem.

What is it that you liked about Umeå?

Umeå is a small city, which is not a bad thing. Everything is reachable in 10 min by bike and your friends are probably going to live even closer. The student life is a lot of fun, not only because the student organizations in Umeå are very active but also the city provides a lot of activities. Also thinking back to my time in Umeå it is hard to picture it without a proper winter and the closeness to nature and incredible northern lights. All the things one should experience.

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

It was unexpected for me, but Swedes even have a word for it: Law of Jante (Jantelagen). It is a code of conduct which dislikes behaviour that is out of the ordinary. It is not that common anymore but from time to time you become aware of it again.

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

The process of applying for a programme is super convenient compared to Germany. Once you get accepted in Umeå you should not underestimate the winter: bring warm clothes or maybe a sunlight lamp for the long nights. You should also look as early as possible for a place to stay. Those things might be a little bit tricky; with every other problem, your study advisor will help you.

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

Umeå University gave me the theoretical and practical tools I need for my career. Especially in regard to teamwork, presentation skills and working on different kinds of projects. Umeå as such offered me many connections to diverse events where I could contribute in a creative way, try out new things and get many contacts which I am sure will be valuable in my career.