Interview
1. The reason you selected the university in Europe.
At that time, I wanted to study in Europe than to study in other countries such as the States. Moreover, my major had influenced on choosing to study in Europe. My major is related to fashion. Thus, I wanted to study design through experiencing the real fashion in Europe. For these reasons, I was interested in Europe. Frankly speaking, the chance of visiting Europe is lower than that of visiting the States.
2. Whether English is used or not
English is spoken in classes. Vaxjo University offers special classes for exchange students. Do not worry about not being able to speak in Swedish.
3. Nationalities
Most students are Europeans such as Germans and French. But there are few native speakers came from America or London. Also there are several students from China, Japan or Hong Kong. However, the majority is Europeans.
4. Grades
First of all, you should understand the circumstance and the character of each professor. Although each class has differences according to the major, most classes are consisted of presentations and group projects. You will not be graded in alphabetical orders such as A, B or F. The test determines whether you pass or fail. As previously mentioned, analyze your professor. Every professor has their own inclination. Rightfully, if you want to get a good grade, you should try your best. I recommend you to take notes in classes in details. Sometimes, ask your classmates for help. Just study as you had done in Korea.
5. Effects as an exchange student
It is incredible. My experience for a year is valuable although it was a lonely life. After I had returned, I became more confident and independent. I can easily overcome what I have been considered as difficult in the past. When I meet with foreigners, I am now able to communicate with them with full of confidence, for instance.
6. Characteristics of Swede
Swede is very introspective compared to other foreigners. They are very naive since they were strictly taught to be honest at any circumstances at home. If you leave your bag on the desk in the library, no one steals your bag. On the other hands, there are also lots of moochers such as punks or alcoholics. Accordingly, the characteristics of Swede are ambilateral.
7. Living expenses
I paid 300,000won on dormitory a month and the living expanses were approximately 400,000won per month. I spent about 600,000won in total per month. Regarding residing, I lived in a dormitory. In addition, the majority of them lived there as well. I do not recommend home-stay. If you live in a dormitory, there are a lot of chances for you to enjoy dinner and host parties with foreign friends.
8. Enjoying break time
You can enjoy your break time in various ways. The university provides some programs for exchange students. Firstly, when you arrive at Vaxjo University, you can attend ‘Welcome dinner’. It is similar to orientation. All students have dinner together. After dinner, party will be held at a club. There will be time to introduce each one’s home food. It is called ‘Culture medley’. Moreover, you can take a walk around the Vaxjo University. Vaxjo University has the supreme natural park. Or you can travel through Europe. But if you want to travel, you would be missing one or two classes.
9. Tips for living in Sweden
The weather of Sweden is unpleasant. The weather is just cold or hot. In winter, it snows heavily. The temperature in Sweden is very similar to that of Korea. Have you ever heard of a ‘white night’? You can experience white night in Sweden. Sweden has an extreme long day or an extreme short day. In terms of transportation, it would be better to ride a bike since bus fee is comparatively expensive, which costs 15000won per ride.
10. To students who is preparing to be an exchange student.
I strongly recommend volunteering for an exchange student. Exchange students have fine condition to study, amuse and meet foreigners. Particularly, if you want to experience Europe, go to Vaxjo University. Your career will be strengthened by Vaxjo University.
History of Vaxjo University
Vaxjo University was founded in 1967 by the national government, as a subsidiary to Lund University, 200 kilometres to the south. After achieving its independence in 1977, the university has gradually expanded its activities, education and research to an advanced level. On January 1,1999, Vaxjo University established its own doctorate studies. At present, more than 14,000 undergraduates are registered at Vaxjo University. About a thousand people are employed as researchers, lecturers and administrators. Vaxjo University offers a wide range of programmes and single subject courses. Postgraduate degrees are available in 20 subjects at present. More than 3000 students at the university are registered for education entailing alternative forms of instruction such as distance learning, evening and weekend courses.
Academic Calendar
Please note that the academic year is divided into two semesters.
-2007/2008
-Autumn 2007:
Arrival days: August 28?30, 2007
Orientation Programme: August 31 - September 2, 2007
First day of class: September 3, 2007
End of semester: January 20, 2008
There is a Christmas break between December 24, 2007 and January 6, 2007. There are usually no lectures planned between January 7 and January 14 but re-sit examinations or seminars might be scheduled during this period.
-Spring 2008:
Arrival days: January 16-17, 2008
Orientation Programme: January 18-20, 2008
First day of class: January 21, 2008
End of semester: June 8, 2008
-2008/2009
-Autumn 2008:
Arrival days: August 26?28, 2008
Orientation Programme: August 29-31, 2008
First day of class: September 1, 2008
End of semester: January 18, 2009
There is a Christmas break between December 24, 2008 and January 6, 2009. There are usually no lectures planned between January 7 and January 11 but re-sit examinations or seminars might be scheduled during this period.
-Spring 2009:
Arrival days: January 14-15, 2009
Orientation Programme: January 16-18, 2009
First day of class: January 19, 2009
End of semester: June 7, 2009
Single subject courses 2008 ? 2009
Bio-energy Technology, Business Administration, Civil Engineering, Computer Science (Datalogi), Design, Economics, English, German, Health Science, History, Humanities Course, Informatics, Japanese, Law, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Media and Communication, Media Technology, Music Education, Numerical Analysis, Physical Education, Sport, Physics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Social Work, Sociology, Statistics, Swedish, Total Quality Maintenance (Tero-technology)
You can get more information about Vaxjo University online. Firstly, visit the International center of CAU. Or visit http://cauic.com/kr/. Then download No.199 file. Secondly, visit the Website of Vaxjo University http://www.vxu.se/english/. You can get the detail information such as the credit system, examinations, academic considerations, penalities, language proficiency, the educational system, academic culture and transcript of records.