Tell us a little about yourself.
I am an international student at Lund University at my second year of Master's in Service Management with the specialisation in Tourism. I come from Ukraine and this is my second Master degree.

What did you study before this Master programme in Service Management?
I have previously studied sociology.

How is it to study in Sweden? 
I am very fond of the pace of study here. I greatly appreciate the big chunks of time devoted to self-studies that I may use for reading, doing problem research, and engage in more elaborate projects that culminate a course.

On an average day, what do you do at the programme?
The schedule will vary a lot depending on the course intensity. For instance, at the moment I am in the middle of the 15 credit course and wrapping up with a group project work. Apart from the project, I attend a couple of lectures and one seminar a week on average. There is a number of hours devoted to project supervisions and mid-course discussions.

What is the best thing about the programme?
I often catch myself at the thought how lucky I am to arrive at this program having certain experience in the field of tourism behind. It helps a deal to make sense of what I study when relating to theoretical knowledge to past encounters.

Why did you choose the specialisation Tourism?
As I said, I have studied sociology, but have also obtained extensive experience from traveling and working with a cruise company. Consequently, I was searching for a programme that would bridge my educational background and practical experience.

What do you want to work with when you have finished your education?
I believe I could probably get back to the cruising industry and get a position in destination management. Both my education and work experience provide good opportunities for making a career at sea. However, I see now some other avenues when doing my own research as part of my master thesis. The subject is extremely interesting and I could probably use results of my study to further developed in start-up business. Certainly, the second option requires a lot more effort and courage, but it is a farther-reaching objective.

How is Helsingborg as a student city?
I feel comfortable here. But I also find Lund a more fun place for students to be in terms of events and socializing.

Do you have a tip for new students?
One important thing is to arrange your studies around your true interests. Professors at Lund University are welcoming students to develop and work on free-to-chose subjects that interest them at most. And then, the program is passing so fast that it is equally important to achieve balance between study and life outside campus.