Meet Miriam: student at the Master's Programme in Applied Biostatistics
Are you interested in data, statistics and life science? Do you want to find answers to important questions in health and medicine? Our master’s programme attracts students with many different backgrounds. We asked Miriam Lundqvist, who has a background in cognitive science, to share her experiences of the programme.
Hello Miriam! What made you apply to our Master's Programme in Applied Biostatistics?
“I come from a cognitive science background, so I was already interested in people and data, and this programme felt like the perfect mix. The opportunity to analyse data and solve problems was really interesting and appealed to me.”
Why did you choose to study in Gothenburg?
“I chose the programme rather than the city, as this master's was offered in Gothenburg. However, I’ve really come to like the city. It’s very cosy, with plenty of cafés and parks.”
What’s the best/most challenging part of studying your programme?
“We all come from different backgrounds and countries, so you learn a lot from each other. The programme is also well tailored and covers the most relevant areas of biostatistics, making everything you learn valuable for your future career. The most challenging part is that if you don’t have a background in mathematics or statistics, you may need to put in some extra work at the beginning.”
Is the programme easier or harder than you expected? Do you need to be an expert in maths to manage?
“It is a bit more challenging than I expected, but you definitely don’t need to be an expert in maths. Like I said, you might need to spend extra time at the beginning to get into it. But if you’re motivated and willing to put in the effort, you’ll do fine!”
What’s the best thing about your teachers?
“They really try to make the programme as useful as possible. They also encourage feedback from us students so they can continue to improve it.”
Have you participated in statistical consulting at Akademistatistik? Tell us more!
“Yes, I have! It has been very inspiring to see how a biostatistician works and what kind of problems they need to solve. It’s also been interesting to see the complexity of understanding what clients want and how to communicate with them in a clear and effective way.”
What’s student life like?
“You study, spend time with your friends, and explore the city, basically.”
Any advice for someone thinking about applying to the programme?
“Go into it with energy and a willingness to learn. Don’t be afraid to ask both teachers and fellow students for help.”
What do you wish someone had told you when you were a new student?
“Don’t panic in the beginning, things will come together and make sense over time. Take the opportunity to explore the city and do fun things with your classmates. Everything is more fun and enjoyable together.”
What do you want to do in the future?
“I would like to work as a consultant in a biostatistics company.”
Miriam’s tips: Five things all student in Gothenburg should do
- Watch a football match at Ullevi Stadium.
- Explore the islands of the archipelago.
- Take a walk around Slottsskogen Park.
- Enjoy plenty of fresh fish.
- Study at different cosy cafés.
TEXT: NINA RAUN | PHOTOS: PRIVATE
About Miriam Lundqvist
From: Skellefteå, Sweden
Studying: Master's Programme in Applied Biostatistics
Miriam in three words: Down to earth, helpful, engaged.
Leisure interests: Enjoying football, reading and outdoor life.