(The interview is translated from Swedish.)
What is your background?
“After having completed the Social Sciences Programme targeting behavioural science at a sports-focused upper-secondary school in Stockholm, my original plan was to become a police officer. To gain relevant experience and a pathway into the profession, I chose to undergo a security guard training programme – a first step that I felt would give me a good foundation for future police studies. I then started working for Securitas, where I stayed for three years. During this period, which coincided with the Covid-19 pandemic, I also studied a number of freestanding courses at various universities, but found that these studies were not particularly engaging. After three years in the security profession, tired of the work and still searching, I realised that it was time to invest in an education that would truly contribute to my personal growth.“
Why did you choose Lund?
“The reason why I chose Lund was that I wanted to experience the student life. I was therefore recommended by both friends and cousins, who had studied before me, that it really was a city for someone who wanted to experience the student life. Lund University also has a great reputation of being considered very good and respected in the labour market. I really love this small town, how close everything is and how quickly you feel at home.“
Why did you choose the Bachelor's Programme in Design of Information Systems?
“My aunt recommended the programme to me. She said that there is a great demand in the labour market for informaticians and that many companies are desperate for people with this knowledge. I have also always had a strong interest in technology and computers.“
What do you think of the programme so far?
“I am now in my last semester and so far I have learnt a lot in the field of informatics. An understanding of how technology and business interacts and how to use IT solutions to improve different business processes. This has also been confirmed during internships and also in my own personal projects. The teachers are also very competent and committed, and we have had the opportunity to listen to interesting guest lecturers.“
Was it difficult to get started with your studies? What is the overall level of difficulty like?
“It took me a while to really settle into my studies and regain focus. It became clear that you don't always understand everything immediately after it has been presented. It was often necessary to go back and repeat the material several times and to apply it practically in order to really absorb the knowledge.
I would describe the difficulty of the programme as challenging, but manageable, with the right attitude and effort. Some courses were more difficult to understand at the beginning, especially programming and databases, which can be challenging if you have no previous experience. However, thanks to dedicated teachers and supporting course material, I was able to overcome these difficulties.“
What’s the sense of community like among classmates?
“The social cohesion among classmates is very good, almost everyone is very open and great. There is an open atmosphere and it is easy to find someone to co-operate with in group work or to discuss your studies with. You make friends for life and good contacts for the future.“
Do you have any advice for those interested in applying to the Bachelor's Programme in Design of Information Systems?
“My advice is to prepare a bit beforehand about what you think you want to do after the programme and how the education will help you in your career. Maybe there are specific courses that fit particularly well with your interests or future plans. Later on, I would suggest preparing for programming, as this is a part that many find challenging at first.“
What are your plans for the future, after you've obtained your bachelor's degree?
“My future plans are to start working right after graduation before possibly pursuing further studies. I think it would be valuable to gain practical experience and a clearer picture of the field I want to specialise in before committing to additional studies.“
