Summer greeting from Rebecka Arman

How would you recommend your students to prepare themselves before starting the Bachelor's Programme in Business and Economics?  
-I would say, the best way to prepare for the program start at the Bachelor of Business and Economics is to make sure to read the information that is sent to you and prepare so that you can be in Gothenburg and take part in the welcoming days. During the first days and weeks of the program you will receive lots of very important and useful information, both in writing and when we meet. There are certain things you need to do in order to make sure that you are registered and can take your seat in the program. It is also a very good time to start to get to know and find new friends among your classmates! Prepare yourself to meet others who are interested in, and many who already have experience, of living and working internationally.

To someone who is a bit nervous, what would you say?
-It is common if not expected to be nervous when starting a new training like this one. Remember that you are not alone. It is an education filled with others in the same situation as you: who have also received good grades and are probably highly motivated, and at the same time might be nervous. To me, being nervous means that you understand that a bachelor’s programme such as this one is a very important step that will impact your future. This attitude and understanding will help you and make it easier for you to also achieve your goals, hopes and the expectations that you have on yourself. You will also be offered plenty of support, so please use it as needed.

How do you prepare yourself for the new semester and the start of this programme? 
-I am looking forward to meeting the new class, starting the program this fall. Before then I am taking a nice vacation to get some good rest and change of scenery. I know that this helps me be focused, enjoy and perform in my work during the fall.

What are you reading this summer?
-Personally I am taking a certification course during the summer that is aimed to enhance my “cultural intelligence”. I will make use of this and also help to teach it in our class, so that we can make the very best use out of our varied backgrounds and previous experiences, sharing them and learning from each other. I will also be reading a book by my colleague Nanna Gillberg about equality in organizations, and a fiction book by Anne Tyler just for my own enjoyment.

Any advice to our students when they arrive at the School in August? 
-My advice when you come here in August is to talk to your fellow students as much as possible, get to know them, including those who might seem different from you in some ways. Then you will find others that you can give and get support from, others who really understand what it is like to be a student in the program. Make use of what is offered by the school, such as our SMART: Professional Skills Development-program, the many student union activities, our Career Service department’s activities and our student councellor who is always there for you. And of course, most importantly: start your studies and follow along with the course activities straight away, so you are able to stay on track! The courses naturally involve many hours of studying, that is expected to be at the rate of full time work.