Warm welcome to the Sahlgrenska Academy!

Lovisa Ottosson has just moved to Gothenburg from Växjö to begin studying physiotherapy with us. She has previously worked part-time in elderly care and is driven by a strong desire to contribute within healthcare. She feels both excited and positive about starting her studies.

“I really want to help people. Ideally, I would like to work with children who need rehabilitation after an injury, or with older adults,” says Lovisa.

Sports-related physiotherapy appeals to her less, but she finds the breadth of the program inspiring.

“It feels great to be here. The first courses focus on anatomy, and I think it will be both interesting and fun to get started.” 

Sisters Maha and Ilham Salah are now both beginning their studies in medicine with us. As children, their favorite game was doctor and patient, and throughout their school years their interest in the natural sciences grew with support from engaged teachers.

After the joint introduction for all new students, they both felt inspired ahead of the start of the semester.

“The introduction felt very energizing. This is going to be fun,” says Maha.

Ilham agrees: “I felt like I wanted to take part in all the activities that were presented, but I think we’ll start by joining the shared sports activities.”

After six years working as a nursing assistant at Queen Silvia’s Children’s Hospital, Noah Bjurling is now taking the next step and beginning studies in nursing with us.

“It feels very different to start studying again after many years, but also exciting. I hope to continue working at the children’s hospital as a nurse. Working with children brings a lot of joy,” says Noah.

This semester, Diana Hiciu is also beginning her nursing education at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg. With a background in health and social care and practical experience as a nursing assistant, the step felt natural, she explains:

“My mother is a nurse, and I’ve seen that it is a responsible and rewarding profession where you get to help others. I’m really looking forward to the coming three years as a nursing student,” says Diana.

Hala, Alaa, Sydra, Suha, and Rama are all now beginning their studies in dentistry. They are looking forward to the program.

“It has been a dream of mine since middle school to study dentistry, especially here in Gothenburg. I have worked very hard to be here today,” says Sydra.

Hala recognizes herself in the choice of profession: “I think becoming a dentist will suit me. I’m interested in the mouth and teeth.”

Rama looks ahead to what awaits later in the program: “It’s a long program, five years, but we’ll take one semester at a time. The most exciting part will be when we start meeting patients.”

A special moment

The beginning of student life often includes both excitement and nervousness, something addressed by the Sahlgrenska Academy’s dean, Jenny Nyström, when she met the students during the joint introduction.

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Wearing ceremonial academic robes, which are only used on special occasions, she shared personal reflections on what it can feel like to move to a new city to begin studying. She reminded the students that the period they are now entering is important in many ways, not only for education but also for building community and friendships that may last for a long time.

“We as teachers are here for you, and our goal is for you to succeed. Teaching and support are meant to help you move forward, but don’t forget what a resource you are for one another. Together, you can create a safe and inclusive study environment,” she said.

Make room for life outside your studies

Another message emphasized the importance of balance. Studies are important, but so is life outside the classroom. Recovery and activities that make you feel good help you both enjoy your time as a student and maintain your energy.

During the welcome activities, the student union SAKS was introduced by its chair, Alva Jonsson. The Sahlgrenska Academy offers a wide range of student life activities, from sports and outdoor pursuits to dance, surgery-related activities, and social events.

A festive highlight was the entrance of the student orchestra Kungliga Hofmessingsmusiquecorpsen (KHMMC) Blåshjuden af Götheborg, most often simply called Blåshjuden, together with Medicinska Danscorpsen Inälfvorna. Everyone is welcome was the clear message. There is no requirement to already know how to dance or play an instrument, as many learn after joining.

Students also receive introductions and social activities through their respective orientation committees.

Once again, a warm welcome to the Sahlgrenska Academy. We are happy to have you here.