Exploring Sweden: Daily Life in Jönköping, Sweden

The months leading up to the exchange were filled with nerves and uncertainty, yet the underlying excitement could not be contained. Now, as I approach the final weeks of this chapter, I can wholeheartedly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to challenge themselves on both an academic and personal level.

Academic Life at Jönköping University

As an undergraduate Product Design student, Jönköping was one of the few universities in Europe that offered subjects that aligned with the required core subjects back at home. With a few consultations with the faculty’s teaching staff, it ultimately became my first preference for a host university. I am eternally grateful for the exposure to a new approach to topics that align with my primary program, combined with the range of elective choices, which provided a fresh and welcomed experience of life beyond just design. Though it’s no surprise that, despite the refreshing elective decisions, I have found my favourite subject so far to be Materials in Design, which explores sustainable manufacturing considerations.

In terms of the teaching approach, the apparent difference from my personal experience is the level of independent learning and expected discipline of the students. Exercises, equivalent to tutorials and lectures, are optional, with the belief that students are responsible for their education, in contrast to our mandatory approach back home, where tutors are, yes, more hands-on, but also more concerned with attendance and participation.

Life in Jönköping

Jönköping is a small but vibrant town situated among three lakes. The setting here is incredible, as well as shocking — the shift in hours of daylight is probably one I will never get over. It’s also calmer and quieter than Sydney, so much so that for the first week, just talking in my room felt as if I was disturbing the silence outside. However, the quietness here is heavenly and a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of Sydney life.

For those who are nervous about settling into Sweden, I want to reassure you that JU has an amazing arrival program. They pair you with international students who have been at JU for at least a semester – these will become your buddies, who will provide you with all the necessary insights and information, from where to eat to how to buy a bus ticket. This was, honestly, lifesaving as someone who has never travelled to Europe

Top tips for Future Exchange Students:

• Make the most of exchange and say yes, more than no – ESPECIALLY to social events
• Bring some comfort food from home!
• Pack for the cold, but also the warmer weather!

Linda Tran
Bachelor of Design in Product Design Bachelor of Creative Intelligence and Innovation
Jönköping University, Sweden
Global Exchange Scholarship

For more information about the UTS Global Exchange program please visit: www.uts.edu.au/thinkglobal