Alicia did thorough research before choosing a master’s programme at the School of Business and she has nothing but encouraging words for those thinking of studying in Sweden:
- I simply love Sweden and I am staying in Stockholm after graduation. Swedish people are welcoming and the language is not as hard as you might think.
Can you tell us a bit about your background?
-I grew up in Valencia, Spain, and graduated from university with a major in English Language and Literature. Some time after my graduation I found a job in a multinational Auditing and Consulting company, and after three years I felt it was time to pursue postgraduate studies in business.
Why did you choose to study at the School of Business here in Sweden?
-I did research for more than 4 months, checking everything from courses offered to world rankings. Eventually I realised that I wanted a programme that emphasised a mixture of disciplines and therefore chose the Master’s degree in Management, Marketing and Society at the School of Business. I read many positive comments from previous international students to the area so Scandinavia sounded good and Stockholm sounded perfect!
How are you finding it so far?
-Before I began my studies I was worried about not having an academic background in Business, but when I learnt that many other students were in the same situation I felt more confident. Teachers and staff at the School have also been very supportive and are always ready to lend a hand. I also treasure meeting all my fantastic classmates.
You are currently studying in Hong Kong as part of our Dual Degree Programme, can you tell us about that?
-The Dual Degree allows me to graduate with two degrees- one MSc from Stockholm University and one MBA from Hong Kong Baptist University. Hong Kong is a business hub full of exciting opportunities. The high workload and the cultural differences make the day-to-day experience a real challenge, but I have already made good friends and been accepted for an internship. The prospects look very exciting!
What is the best thing about studies abroad?
-The people you meet. It is amazing how much you can learn from other cultures. While being an exchange student in Melbourne, Australia, I met fantastic people from all over the world and the list of friends I made is endless. You learn to work in multicultural teams and above all, you learn that tolerance and respect are the keys to understanding.
Do you have any advice to give students who are thinking about studies in Sweden?
-I simply love Sweden and I am staying in Stockholm after graduating. I have nothing but encouraging words for those thinking of coming to study in Sweden. The experience is rewarding; Swedish people are welcoming and the language is not as hard as you might think. The most important thing is being motivated. And yes, a piece of advice: do not forget to pack a warm jacket. Winters in Sweden are cold!