Sepideh Razavi
But only studying was not enough for her. Sepideh and 6 of her friends- coming from Cameron, Sweden, Iran and Canada- have developed an idea of creating a meeting place for students to get together outside the university in order to meet other people and share knowledge. After meeting different authorities, the municipality of Östersund provided them with a location- a café in the school of Österäng, where also the SFI-courses were held. This has lead in 2 years of wonderful memories and variety of experiences that establishment of an association for better integration through cultural activities was one of such. But due to Swedish regulations regarding whom to be able to run the café students could not continue with their programs there.
Getting familiar with the regulations reminded her of the need for earning income and finding a job. She tried and tried but it was difficult. She realized the importance of knowing Swedish the most when she find her desired job through reading an article in a local newspaper.
Studying in two master programs a long with learning Swedish resulted in better understanding of the societies, a broad network, and an eagerness to do more. These days in addition to writing her second thesis in tourism, she tries to develop project ideas and hopes to work with regional development issues.
Her 2-years-plan of studying in Sweden in 2008 became a five-years-experience in Swedish culture, educational and work systems. The Mid Sweden University has high potential according to Sepideh, but sometimes it will not fully bloom. The university and its surroundings might seem small at first sight, but it is big enough for being able to fulfill dreams and has an attraction so strong that it can make people to remake their first impulse.
Last but not least:
Sepideh’s top five tips for you as international student on how to get the most out of your stay in Sweden:
- Even if you do not have plan to stay long, learn Swedish as soon as you can, try to be able to chat with others on an everyday level, then on the way to understanding some key words, such as “Lagom” and ”föreningsliv”, you will find your ways to strong friendship, job opportunities and even new ways of thinking
- Take part in as much activities as possible offered by student union, cultural associations, sport groups, and try to be active outside the university as well, start by being volunteer it helps you to get to know your own abilities besides helping you to develop a network
- If you like to find a job then get registered on Arbetsförmedlingen ‘s system and spend plenty of time to understand and learn every detail on this work-related website in Swedish, then write a personal letter and a CV as soon as you can, so you can leave a copy of them to those who may offer you a chance to work
- Contact companies by visiting them in person, especially if you have interest in specific companies or projects and be “Lagom”.
- Be patient, there is no rush for anything to happen in Sweden.
Writer: Daniel Hedin, International Desk
