Colin Furlong

Degree: Concurrent BA/BEd

Which university abroad did you attend? Örebro University

Which country did you go to? Sweden

Where did you live when you studied abroad? Student Residence

What was the easiest thing when you arrived in Sweden? The exchange program at Örebro University is extremely well organized. The orientation week covers everything you need to begin your exchange in Sweden. From setting up your accommodation to registering for courses, someone is there every step of the way. There is even an organized group trip to IKEA to purchase items for your room!

What was the most challenging thing when you arrived in Sweden? The most challenging thing in Sweden for me was the language barrier. Although most Swedes speak fluent English, everything is written in Swedish. After you learn some Swedish it becomes a lot easier but it can be challenging at first.

What did you find different about studying in a Swedish University? There are a lot of differences between studying at a Canadian University and a Swedish University. In Sweden you spend very little time in class and the relationship between teacher and students is less formal. 

Best things about Sweden? Sweden has a very high level of living. This is very apparent upon your arrival. Everything is “top notch” especially the student accommodations which made my exchange that much more enjoyable.

What do you find most interesting about Sweden? One thing that is noticeably different is the pace of life. Swedes take breaks frequently and actually make time to sit have lunch with each other everyday.

Which courses did you take? While I was away I took five courses: 1. Swedish Language and Culture I, 2. Special Needs Education, 3. English, Written Communication, 4. Ethnic Diversity in the classroom, and 5. English, Voices of Empire.

Which course did you enjoy the most and why? Swedish Language and Culture was a great course because you learn how to speak Swedish with fellow exchange students.

Most memorable experience? There are too many to choose from! The places you travel and the people you meet make studying abroad such an amazing experience.

Food you miss the most and could not get in Sweden? The food in Sweden is similar to that of Canada. I pretty much ate/cooked the same things I would typically eat in Canada while on my exchange. However, there is a lot less packaged/processed food in Sweden.

What did you miss about Canada when you studied abroad? The thing I missed the most was my car and being able to drive. However, the public transportation system in Sweden is really good so getting around the city was not a problem.

What did you like most about studying abroad? Meeting new people and being able to travel to other European countries so easily.

How many other countries did you visit when you were studying abroad? I travelled to eight other countries while on my exchange.

What was the most important thing you learned when you were abroad? I learned to take risk and to be open to new opportunities.

What are your future plans? I plan on finishing my BA/BEd degree here at UNB and then teaching abroad for a while before applying to graduate school.

Do you have any advice to future students, who may wish to study abroad? If you have any desire to study abroad DO IT! If you over think it you will come up with countless reasons of why you should stay home. The people you meet and the places you will get to travel make studying abroad such an amazing experience.