What Sarah says about the Master's in Biology, Animal Ecology

Introducing Sarah 

Hi! My name is Sarah and I'm the student ambassador for the Master's programme in Biology, Animal Ecology. I am happy to answer any questions you might have about the programme, courses, student life, and life in Lund and Sweden via the Unibuddy Platform, where you can chat with me (see below). Please note that I cannot answer questions about the application process, scholarships, or residence permits.  

About the programme and the teaching style 

Why did you choose Lund University? 

"I chose Lund University because I have already spent an exchange semester at a Swedish university (Uppsala University) during my Bachelor's and really enjoyed living and studying in Sweden. The focus lies more on cooperation instead of competition, and the hierarchy between staff and students is flat – both things I was not used to in my former education and considered it refreshing and enriching. I picked Lund specifically for many reasons, one of which is its strong research focus, as well as of the specialised Animal Ecology programme."

What do you think of your programme so far? Does it meet your expectations? 

"The programme has exceeded my expectations, and I am more than happy about it. I particularly enjoy the strong focus on Animal Ecology with its the option of flexibility at the same time. I really like how accessible everything is – whether it’s the researchers or the study advisors – and how they truly make an effort to ensure that students have the best possible study experience." 

What is the best thing about your programme? 

"The best thing about the Animal Ecology programme is the wide-ranging insight into the research area from experienced teaching staff. I like the realistic representation of the academic research field, and the many tools and tips we learn to not only navigate this field, but also to grow and thrive in it."

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"The Swedish style of teaching is very refreshing. The focus on collaboration and learning through discussion with other students, makes it both super interesting and fun."

How international is your programme?

"Animal Ecology and all Biology Master’s in general are degree programmes with a high proportion of international students. Students do not only come from different countries within Europe, but also from other continents. It's really exciting to get to know the different cultures and learn from each other."

Have you been able to gain any practical experience during your studies? 

"The Biology Master’s programmes offer the opportunity to carry out project internships in cooperation with relevant research groups at Lund University. There is a lot of exciting research and projects in which one can participate. I'm doing one in this semester with the Ecological and Evolutionary Physiology research group. There are also many opportunities for the Master's thesis, both within Lund University and through external collaborations."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"Future students should choose this Master’s programme if they have a strong interest in research – if they want to become better at reading, understanding, conducting and writing in and about various areas of research. It is not important to be already super specialised, but rather to be open and interested to gain insights into the research field of ecology and biology."

Thoughts on being an international student at Lund, spare time and tips for prospective students 

What is it like being an international student at Lund University? 

"Being an international student at Lund is a very special feeling, the city isn't actually that big, but flourishes because of all its diversity. Lund has a very special atmosphere – a place where so much is possible. There are so many activities and opportunities to make lifelong friends and get to know people who share the same hobbies, no matter how niche they may be."

What do you do in your spare time?

"In my spare time I enjoy drawing, listening to music, singing, going for walks, taking photos, learning languages, travelling by train, and reading everything from National Geographic articles to the latest novels. I also love trying new things with my friends."

What have been the highlights of your first year in Lund? 

"There are so many – from the super interesting courses to the friends I have made from all over the world, to the beautiful city center of Lund or the friendliness of Swedish people. I fell in love with Lund when the leaves slowly turned colors. I fell in love with Swedish culture during the first notes of the traditional Lucia song of the University choir. I fell in love with Lund University during hours of discussions, learning and growing within my programme."

Do you have any advice for students that are considering coming to Lund?  

"I would like to encourage all students who are thinking about coming to Lund, but are doubting themselves and are anxious about the move, to take the leap. Living in Sweden is such a beautiful experience – the different distinct seasons, the super friendly and helpful people, and then specifically Lund with its very own academic and international atmosphere. Studying in Lund definitely has the potential to be life-enriching and life-changing."

Have more questions for Sarah? 

You can chat with her and other current students directly via Unibuddy by clicking the card below.