On Monday, the introduction begins for the new international students who begin their studies at the University of Skövde. During the pandemic, the number of international students decreased slightly, but that seems to have changed for this fall semester. More than 350 students from all over the world now come to Skövde to study, which is significantly more than previous years.
During the pandemic, the number of international students at the University of Skövde decreased slightly. But for this autumn semester, it has been possible for significantly more students to come to Sweden to study.
“There are over 350 new international students beginning their studies with us this autumn, which is the highest number in many years. It feels great and shows that the University of Skövde has attractive educations also internationally,” says Frida Lindgren, International Coordinator at the University of Skövde.
Close to 40 different nationalities are represented among the new students. During the introduction, students from India, South Korea, the USA and Spain, and more, will participate. The purpose of the introduction is for the students to feel welcome both to the campus, to Skövde and to Sweden.
A "normal" intro
After several years of customised introduction, the students will experience a more traditional version. Something that Frida Lindgren believes is long overdue.
“It is way more fun that way. We made a series of adaptations and measures, due to the pandemic, to increase security during the intro in both 2020 and 2021. We are of course thinking about it this year as well, but for the sake of the students it is so fun that we can see more people in the same place.”
During the introduction, the new students will get to know the campus and the University, find out more about student support, the Student Union and get to know and find their way in Skövde. They will receive help with course registration, schedules and with accessing the University's computers. The traditional coffee (Swedish fika) at the Town Hall in Skövde, together with the Mayor of Skövde, Conny Brännberg, is also on the agenda.
The highlight of the year
To guide and support the international students during their first time on campus, there are buddies on site. The buddies are students currently studying in Skövde. For Frida Lindgren, the international intro means a kind of highlight of the year.
“This is by far the most enjoyable part of my job and I have longed for this for so long. I also hope that the large number of international students can give Skövde and Skaraborg a bit of an international touch. We should be very proud that they have chosen to come here.”
