Personal observations about Uppsala so far

#erasmus #master's #changes

Photo of Uppsala Cathedral

I'm here to start my Master's degree journey at Uppsala University. Because of the nature of the Erasmus Mundus scholarship program that I got into, I will be moving to a new university every semester for the next two years, and I will come back here for my last semester to write my thesis.

I have only been here one week at the time of writing, so my perspectives will continue to change as I get to know the place and settle in, and I want to write this post to remember the first impressions I have noticed so far about my housing and surroundings in Uppsala.

• Uppsala is very green, tree-wise, and they take recycling very seriously.

• Also, the way they set up the housing is intentional when it comes to energy savings. For example, the lights in the common area are automatically turned off after no movement for a minute or so. Even my shower has its timing - it would turn off the water automatically after about 30 seconds and you can turn it on again (maybe I'll count how long it takes the next time). I find these very fascinating because these strategies ensure that no energy is wasted and it encourages the users to save the energy as well. (My showers have got much shorter now).

• They have lanes for bikes and pedestrians. Their roads are set up well for biking. So many people bike or walk here.

• I have been told that the Swedes don't like to intrude and would give a lot of space to you, out of politeness, which I really appreciate so far. :) And when I start a conversation or ask questions to other Swedes, they seem to be friendly and approachable. So far so good on that. I just need to remind myself that if I need something, I need to be proactive and ask, because people would not ask me. A good habit maybe - ask for what you need.

• Most Swedes' fashion style is very classy. They also wear a lot of neutral-tone colours.

• Eating out is a bit expensive, a bit similar price to cities in the US too ($12 - $20 a meal).

• Many people can speak English, at least in the Uppsala area.

• Many places don't take cash. VISA and Mastercard work in places I have been to so far.

• There are many group activities to join. I feel that the society here tries to create spaces and opportunities for people to come together to make friends and do some activities together or outside. It seems like a great way to combat the darkness and the cold during the winter.

• The Uppsala bus system is very convenient. I enjoy taking the bus to places.

All in all, so far so good. People are always keen to help around here. I am very grateful for both the opportunity from Erasmus and also to be able to experience living here in Uppsala and learn from their culture and communities.