Name: Britainney Petrie
Age: 22
Programme: Biotechnology
Home University: University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA

‘’I love being an exchange student in Sweden because, while life is definitely different over here, it is not so different that I experience culture shock.  It does take time to get to know Swedish people, but once you do you see that they are such a friendly, helpful group of people.  I live in SLU’s student housing, and share a corridor with two international students and five Swedish students.  Living with Swedish people has been really beneficial, as they have taught me so much about the traditions and culture.  I couldn’t ask for better housemates!

I love studying at SLU because I don’t feel as though I get lost in the crowd.  At my home university, I attend lectures with over 200 students.  Here at SLU, my classes have between 10 – 20 students.   This means that I get a lot more attention and help from my teachers, and really get to know my fellow students.  The teachers at SLU are so supportive, and if I email them with questions they always get back to me really quickly.  You can see they are very passionate about what they do.

Since I have been in Uppsala I have been working part-time at Upplands Nation, a student club in town.  It has been such a fun experience and a great way to meet people.  Having this job and a close group of friends has given me a sense of belonging in Sweden.   

I definitely recommend students go on exchange to SLU.  Being here has allowed me to break through my shell and grow as a person.  I originally came to SLU for six months, but I have decided to stay for one year because I am so happy here.’’