Appreciates high-quality teaching and cultural exchange among students

Silvia is a former student of the Master's Programme in Cognitive Science at Umeå University

Bild: David Meyers

What made you interested in applying for the programme?

Considering how incredibly complex the human brain and the human experience is, I was really into the idea of this programme's interdisciplinary approach. I mean, we're not just feelings and how we were raised, right? We are a jumble of everything around us. This programme seemed all about digging into “the messy reality” of what makes us tick. It really got me thinking — and I was totally into it!

It's been a pretty cool journey of learning and self-discovery!

What would you like to have known before you came to Umeå?

How useful Facebook can be. I would have done more research on the different activities around town to meet more people, the language exchange café, for example! I would recommend everyone to look for Facebook groups in Umeå. You’ll be surprised by the number of activities you can do. There’s always something going on! You just need to find it.

What do you think about the programme and the teachers/teaching?

I had two of the best teachers I’ve ever had in seven years of university studies, great teaching attitude and great feedback. The study environment in Sweden is more laid-back. I initially freaked out about not getting things right and failing, but I quickly realized that it's all good here. If you don’t understand something during the lecture it’s perfectly fine, you’ll have space to discuss with class mates and professors without any worries in the seminar. It's been a pretty cool journey of learning and self-discovery! 

What did you like to do in Umeå during your free time?

I really enjoyed going to the gym and taking walks, especially by the river. Picking blueberries and gathering around bonfires with friends also were my favourites. Oh! And of course — fika with friends is an absolute must!

What are the biggest differences between studying in Sweden and your home country?

The development of careers and professionals in Sweden is much greater than in Guatemala because there is a lot of research and many more options for master's programs, which is what drives the fields to progress. Also, in Umeå there were a lot more cultural exchange among students, and this gaves us a space to foster personal growth and enhancing both general knowledge and individual development.

What were your plans after graduation?

My plan was to apply for PhD positions to make the best out of the opportunities Sweden has, particularly in education. If a PhD was not an option, my plan was to see what other opportunities and options I had in Sweden where I could not only learn more, but also share my skills and knowledge. I wanted to stay in Umeå if possible, because I loved the city and it felt like home, but I was realistic and figured time and opportunities would tell.