Past Review

Academic rigor, intensity, resources, etc.

The work load was quite light. Homework was handed out infrequently and most often optional. The final exams were generally worth 100% of the final grade. In math courses, the teaching was lecture style. The teacher would teach theory and give example problems. In the language course there was a lot more class interaction. The teacher would give instructions or ask questions in swedish. Students would often have to practice scenerios with eacher.

On-site administration of your program

The office hours were limited, but that is no exception to any other organization in the country. The advisor was knowledgeable, but course registration was a bit bureaucratic and involved trips to the different departments.

How satisfied were you with your living arrangements?

16 Klostergatan, Uppsala, Sweden <br /><br /> Housing was easy. I simply emailed Uppsala whether or not I had a housing preference. Before the semester started they sent out a list of names and dorm assignments. I got assigned to Hotel Uppsala which is a hotel with separate student corridors. It was about two blocks away from the main square which as close as any dorm can get to downtown. The campus buildings are very spread out though, and traveling to the math building required a 30 minute walk or 10 minute bike ride. The room was a single and had its own bathroom and kitchen with a stove top and refrigerator. It had plenty of pots, pans, and dishes, and many other things you can find from previous occupants. You can buy your sheets second hand from akademihotellet for cheap. The corridor was entirely composed of international students.

You can find food to meet any dietary restrictions at one of the many ICA grocery stores or Willy's, the cheaper bigger store which can be found a little outside of downtown. The produce is not that great. Meat is pretty good quality. You can get fresh meat at the market in Saluhallen which is more expensive. I recommend dinning at one of the many student nations or at a pizza place which have fairly priced meals. Make sure to try some semla, which is a tasty swedish pastry.

How integrated did you feel with the local culture?

Valborg is a spring festival celebrated by all of Scandinavia. Uppsala is probably the best place to be during the celebration, as the town has it's own traditions to add to the holiday. This includes a strawberry and champagne breakfast, racing student-made boats down the town river, and outdoor entertainment and sports. At night, make sure to find a bonfire. Go all out for Valborg, its awesome!

How well were health issues addressed during the program?

Uppsala may be the safest city on the planet. I never had any health issues, but friends who needed help seemed to get adequate care. The biggest disease you have to look out for is a cold, or maybe the flu.

(1 = not very easy/$200+ on food & personal expenses/week, 2.5 = $100/week, 5 = very easily/minimal cost)

I was able to practice with other students and the locals. I did not ever need speak swedish in everyday interaction. Swedes speak nearly perfect english. It was often difficult to practice with a local as they would always switch the conversation to english.

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• Hotel

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• International Students

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• Local Students