(The interview is translated from Swedish.)
What is your background?
“I am originally from Canada, but moved to Sweden four years ago to live with my fiancé. In my home country, I studied psychology and literature, but I have always been interested in technology alongside my social science studies. With great trepidation, but also with great excitement, I decided to start studying again, this time with the aim of pursuing my interest in technology and software design with a focus on user privacy.“
Why did you choose the Bachelor's Programme in Design of Information Systems?
“When I was looking for a technology-oriented programme, the Design of Information Systems programme at LU immediately stood out. It offers a perfect blend of technology, psychology, and business, just what I was looking for to learn the practical tools needed to be able to influence different systems that shape our society in a positive direction. It also gives me a broad knowledge base to stand on, which helps if you want to specialise more later on. Technology is of course moving fast in the digital world, especially with regard to AI these days, and I want to be part of the changes to be able to steer development in as humane a direction as possible, so that the technology benefits people.
It was a combination of previous students' experiences, the university's website, and to some extent my instinct that made me choose this programme over other programmes in Sweden.“
What do you think of the programme so far?
“I have really enjoyed the balance between the theoretical and practical aspects of the programme. This is a big difference from my previous academic experiences, where it was usually not expected to look beyond the course literature.
In this case, while we are given course material to learn terminology, theories, frameworks in modelling, research methodology, and programming syntax, there is as much focus on applying the conceptual stuff in a real-world contemporary context. Having a dialogue with current experts in the field, a constant awareness of the latest technological developments, and an eye on cultural and political developments, is at least as important as the theoretical foundation. In a way, it is a more intellectually demanding approach than traditional learning. I would like to add that I found it particularly empowering to gain basic knowledge of Java programming in the first semester. There is something deeply satisfying about thinking algorithmically and creating software that works.“
Was it difficult to get started with your studies? What is the overall level of difficulty like?
“Compared to most of the other students, I had different conditions because I did not attend a Swedish upper-secondary school. I had to start by studying Swedish as a second language at the upper secondary school level, and other courses for eligibility that were not transferable from my Canadian grades. I took these courses through a combination of Komvux, Folkets universitet, and Hermods, both on site and remotely.
It was a long journey, but definitely worth it. To all future students who speak Swedish as a second language and who are thinking about studying a bachelor's programme in Swedish, I would like to say that it is a challenge, but it is absolutely possible if you work hard.“
Do you have any advice for those interested in applying to the Bachelor's Programme in Design of Information Systems?
“I would recommend all prospective students to try to take advantage of the multidisciplinary approach of this programme, and think about the great opportunities it offers to choose what you want to specialise in (cybersecurity, project management, programming, quality control, etc.).
Furthermore, don't underestimate the value of having teachers who appreciate questions, with whom you can have conversations and explore ideas. It is conversations with teachers and classmates that have enriched my education the most.“
