Exchange Journey from Denmark to Sweden: A Semester at Lund, A Story Unfolds

March 15, 2025

Studying abroad is more than just an academic endeavor—it’s a journey of discovery, growth, and new perspectives. In this interview, Trisha, a Master's student in Migration Studies at the University of Copenhagen, shares her experience of spending a semester at Lund University in Sweden. She reflects on what drew her to Migration Studies, the unexpected opportunity that led her to Lund, and how the exchange reshaped her academic and personal outlook. From navigating cultural differences to building meaningful connections, Trisha’s story offers a candid and insightful look into the realities of studying abroad. Whether you’re considering an exchange yourself or simply curious about life at Lund, her reflections provide an inspiring glimpse into the transformative power of international education.

Poster Design By Ludovica Firli

Hej hej! thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me today! I’m excited to learn more about your experiences. To start off, could you tell our Lunartimes readers a bit about yourself and your academic background?

Hi, my name is Trisha. I earned my B.A. in History and am currently pursuing an M.A. in Migration Studies at the University of Copenhagen. And I participated in an exchange program at Lund for the 2024 autumn semester.

What inspired you to study Migration studies? and why did you choose Sweden for your exchange?

I decided to pursue Migration studies, as I was super intrigued about how multidisciplinary the field is, but I also wanted to do something that was relevant to my own personal life and my family’s migration experience from the Philippines to the U.S. I chose Sweden for my exchange because I had heard many wonderful things about the courses and professors. Specifically, I learned that Lund is a top destination for studying abroad and has one of the most beautiful campus (which is true, I loved exploring and seeing all the buildings and how accessible so many things are)

Lund University Library, Autumn 2024: Photo by Trisha Mangayao Beachum

Was this exchange part of a long-term goal, or did it emerge as an unexpected opportunity?

This exchange was actually an unexpected opportunity… I was just casually browsing through courses at my home university and found them quite boring…. Then I looked at Lund and saw how many courses were really intriguing based off the syllabus, and applied before the deadline (which was three days before, oops my bad!)

What courses did you take? Did these courses enhance your understanding of Swedish society or the broader field of Migration Studies?

I took COSM32 (Asian Studies: East and South-East Asia's Role in the Global Economy), COSM34 (Development Theories and Issues in Asia), COSM51 (International Relations in East and South-East Asia: Issues and Cases), AND RETN10 (Rhetoric: Rhetorical Argumentation)

All the COSM courses did not broaden my understanding of Swedish society, however, it does enhance to the broader field of Migration Studies. As all the COSM courses were East & South East Asia focused, it put more perspective on the geographic region, and how the Asian Studies discipline and theories can play a significant role in Migration Studies.

And to not forget, RETN10 was a random course I just chose on a whim, but it broadened my understanding of how the discipline of rhetorical argumentation can be utilized in all disciplines.

How does studying in Lund University compare to studying in your home university in terms of teaching methods, grading system, and academic expectations?

Compared to my home university, everything was quite different. The grading system was in Sweden is letter grade while in Denmark you get a number (f.x. -03, 00, 02, 04, 07, 10, 12).

My academic expectations I think were pretty similar to my home university, however, after like one month or so, my expectations changed. I had to change how I did things at my home university to fit the academic expectations at Lund.

Teaching methods were similar, yet quite different. I think at Lund, there was such a big emphasize on professors seeing what you learned and what you can take from the classroom. At my home university, it’s like you are just studying and working hard to fit the standards of the professor for your exam.

Are there differences in the way professors and students interact there compared to your home university?

Compared to my home university, I noticed professors and students interact way more, there’s office hours, professors are always available via mail. I also sensed there is a lot of trust that students have for their professors, to me the professors want their students to succeed and will help them along the way. The professors want to see you grow/learn through the course, which I really appreciate.

I also noticed students really want to talk and connect with each other, don’t mind interacting with new students in their courses, and how they are always willing to help out a fellow classmate. There are a lot of student initiatives and advocacy (which I have really liked experiencing and enjoyed). Undoubtedly, in my opinion it is completely different from my home university.

Copenhagen University Library: Photo by Trisha Mangayao Beachum

Have you encountered any challenges academically, such as language barriers or cultural differences in classroom behavior? How did you overcome them?

I think the only challenge I really faced was the cultural differences in classroom behavior. When you join a course where students have already been together for over a year, it can be difficult to break the barrier and start talking to them, as they already have their established groups. One thing I found helpful in overcoming these barriers is to take advantage of group work opportunities in class. Challenge yourself to join in and start a conversation with your classmates. It doesn’t hurt to try—you might get to know them better and even make new friends

Building connections in a short period can be challenging for many students. How did you manage to form meaningful relationships with both local and international students during your exchange? Do you have any tips?

As I mentioned earlier, in other words, it’s important to put yourself out there—both inside and outside the classroom. Taking the initiative to talk to someone and asking questions about their story, why they chose a certain program, what do they find interesting in the class, etc. can be very beneficial. I also just want to emphasize that many of the people I met during my exchange were incredibly kind and helpful. You don’t feel a sense of intense competitiveness; instead, it’s more of a supportive vibe, like, “we care about you and want you to succeed, even though we’ll eventually have to compete for jobs in the future.” When you try and take the initiative you realize that everyone is there for the same reasons and want you to join their and be part of their community.

What has your living situation been like in terms of housing, transportation, and overall comfort? Did the host university offer dormitory accommodations?

Luckily for me, I lived only an hour away by train, so I didn’t need any accommodation. However, from what I’ve heard from others, the university helps exchange students find a place to live because they genuinely care about making your exchange experience enjoyable and not as stressful.

"My Everyday Commute Looks Like": Photo by Trisha Mangayao Beachum

How do you find the affordability of life in Sweden compared to your home country, and was it easy to access healthcare or other support when needed?

Sweden is definitely more affordable than Denmark (lol). Overall, I found it much cheaper to live in Sweden compared to most countries I’ve visited or lived in, though it ultimately depends on your individual needs. Since I was coming from Denmark for my exchange, the Nordic countries typically have agreements that allow residents to access healthcare services while in each other’s countries. I also received an email from the university and/or government confirming that I was eligible to receive healthcare during my time in Sweden (even though I was a commuter).

What’s the most unforgettable experience you’ve had during your exchange?

I think my most unforgettable experience during my exchange is hanging out in the canteen kind of area just getting to know people and having fun talking to them.

Any favorite food, activity, or place in Sweden that you would recommend?

I really enjoy the exhibits at Lund Konsthall!!! (IT IS FREE, GO!) and the botanical garden is really pretty!!!

Would you recommend this program to others, and how do you think it will influence your future plans?

Yes, I’d highly recommend going to Lund for an exchange. It has significantly influenced my future plans because the courses I took there made me realize how much I missed studying the subjects I was truly passionate about during my bachelor’s. This experience has even led me to consider changing the direction of my job search.

If you could summarize your exchange in three words, what would they be?

Bungang-tulog...Its a Tagalog idiom, directly translated as “fruit of sleep,” captures how my exchange felt—it was like a dream, almost too good to be true. It felt as though I was living in a world that didn’t seem entirely real, where everything just made sense, like I had found a place where I truly belonged, but had to leave eventually.

Thank you once again for taking the time to share your experiences with me. I wish you all the best in your academic journey, and I hope LunarTimes readers find your insights on exchange experiences both valuable and inspiring.

– Anahita (Lunartimes Chief Editor)

Copy Editor: Ellen Anderson

Anahita Poursafir

I am in my second year of a master's degree in Asian Studies at Lund University in Sweden. Before starting this academic journey, I earned my bachelor's degree in Chinese Language and Literature in Tehran, Iran. During my undergraduate years, I worked as the editor of the Culture-Education section of a well-known Chinese student journal. My passion for the Chinese language and culture led me to become a Chinese teacher and translator, roles I have continued ever since. My academic interests focus on politics, economics, and media in East Asia, with a particular emphasis on China.