What Anika says about the Master's in Social Studies of Gender

Anika from Bangladesh

Why did you choose Lund University? 

"I chose Lund University because of its diverse range of offerings to students and the supportive learning environment it provides. Additionally, one of my friends who studied here highly recommended it to me. After carefully reviewing the university's details, considering its impressive rankings in Sweden and Europe, and comparing it to North American universities, Lund University stood out as the most appealing choice. Besides, the availability of academic advisors, mentorship programmes, and comprehensive student services provided me with the assurance that I will have the guidance and resources necessary to excel in my academic pursuits."

What were the highlights of your first months in Lund? 

"The wonderful learning atmosphere within the classroom and the stunning university campus have been the highlights of my first few months here in Lund. Additionally, the city itself exudes a unique charm. As a nature enthusiast, I have found Lund particularly appealing due to the abundance of green spaces throughout the city. It's a place where I can truly connect with nature wherever I go."

The programme and the teaching style

What do you think of the teaching style in Sweden? 

"In my experience, the teaching style in Sweden places a strong emphasis on independent learning and encourages active participation and critical thinking. Classes are often interactive and informal, which fosters a more open and relaxed learning environment for everyone to engage and contribute into producing knowledge. Also, it involves a lot of reading which is beneficial for gaining a critical understanding of the subjects while applying academic theory to real-world challenges." 

How international is your programme? 

"I'd say my programme is quite international. It is designed to be inclusive and diverse, with students coming from different parts of the world. I have my classmates from Europe, Latin America and East Asia. We have a mix of local and international professors, which brings a valuable range of perspectives to our discussions in class as well. Moreover, the programme encourages international exchanges and offers opportunities for global internships and research projects. Overall, it's a well-rounded programme with a strong international focus in my opinion."

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

"Gladly, yes! I'm currently in my third semester, doing an internship in Copenhagen as part of my Master’s programme – it’s just about an hour away from Lund. The journey has had its ups and downs, but it’s all been worth it, especially since I’ve always wanted practical experience and a way to step into the European job market. I’m incredibly grateful to be working in a role that feels fulfilling, thanks to the programme’s flexibility, which lets students choose how to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. I think this approach really encourages students to discover where their interests lie and what they want to pursue in their careers afterward."

Why should prospective students choose this programme? 

"This programme has been an eye-opening experience for me, helping me delve deeply into the intricate social issues that shape our world. What makes it truly unique is how it goes beyond just exploring gender – it equips us with tools to critically analyse how various factors like race, culture, ethnicity, and sexuality intersect to impact people’s lives. It’s not just about understanding gender; it’s about unpacking the layers of privilege, power, and oppression that affect all minority groups in different ways.

What I also appreciate is the practical dimension of the programme. In the third semester, we have the flexibility to explore internships, exchange studies, or elective courses, which not only help us apply what we’ve learned but also prepare us for diverse career paths. Ultimately, this programme is about much more than academics – it’s about seeing the world differently, understanding the experiences of others, and using that knowledge to make a meaningful impact. For anyone passionate about tackling societal inequalities, I wholeheartedly recommend it."

Being an international student in Lund and advice for future students

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

"For me, being an international student at Lund University has been about finding a sense of community in a completely new place. The diversity here is incredible – you meet people from all over the world, making every class discussion rich and engaging. Sharing ideas and perspectives with others who view the world through different lenses allows you to learn far beyond the textbooks.

Settling into Lund was surprisingly easy. The town has a charming, welcoming vibe that makes you feel at home quickly. In fact, there are so many ways to get involved, whether through student activities, exploring Swedish culture, or simply spending time with friends. Besides, the university goes above and beyond to support international students throughout the year, offering a range of resources that make adjusting to life here much easier." 

What do you do in your spare time? 

"As someone who loves being surrounded by nature, I often spend my spare time taking walks in the park, hanging out with friends, or cooking delicious meals in my kitchen. On especially motivated days, I love stepping out of my comfort zone to explore hidden gems – be it a cozy little café tucked away in a quiet street or a scenic spot I’ve only seen in photos."

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

"The highlights of my first year in Lund have been such a mix of challenges, growth, and little moments of joy that I’ll always treasure. Academically, I’ve been exposed to so much knowledge – it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how much I’ve learned and how my perspective has evolved. But honestly, it’s the life outside of classes that really stands out.

Starting from scratch in a new place wasn’t easy, but it taught me so much. Figuring out where to live, balancing convenience and affordability, and then landing an internship that actually aligns with my career goals were big wins that felt really satisfying. One of the simple but unexpected joys has been biking around town – it’s this little daily escape where I get to enjoy Lund at its best.

And then there’s the people I’ve met. The connections I’ve made – whether with classmates, colleagues, or just friendly faces around town – have made everything so much better. Looking back, this year wasn’t just about learning in the classroom, it was about finding my place, growing in ways I didn’t expect, and creating memories that make me excited for what’s next."

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

My first piece of advice is to come with an open mind and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone because it’s the best way to make the most out of this experience, in my opinion. Whether in class discussions, student organisations, or just meeting new people, there are many opportunities to grow academically and personally.

Practical tips: start looking for housing early if you don’t have the LU Housing Guarantee (only non-EU citizens do)! There’s a bunch of resources out there in the website to start with, depending on your priorities. Also, invest in a good bike – it’s the easiest, most fun, and budget-friendly way to get around and explore the city. 

Lastly, take advantage of everything Lund has to offer, both in terms of academics and the community. Join student nations, attend career events, and don’t be afraid to connect with people from different cultures."