Contact a student
What is it like to study in Gothenburg? Ask our international students!
The Faculty of Science and Technology currently has nine active international student ambassadors who are here to help guide you in your decision-making process and can answer your questions about studying and living in Gothenburg.
Feel free to contact the ambassadors directly or follow them in their daily life on instagram.
Joelle Zürcher
Home country
Switzerland
Master's programme
I'm a second-year student in the Nordic Master's in Sustainable Production and Utilization of Marine Bioresources, or MARBIO Programme. I chose to study in Sweden for its hands-on education system, which I've found to be incredibly supportive and effective. A highlight of my program has been the opportunity to visit partner universities in Iceland and Norway, which has broadened my perspective on marine research.
I've now started my one-year master's thesis, where I will be focusing on thermotolerance in zebrafish. My project investigates how rising temperatures affect aquatic animals and how adaptation may help mitigate some of these impacts
Fun fact about me: I'm always up for trying new foods or a spontaneous activity, like a hike or a movie night.
Email: guszurjo@student.gu.se
Aimee Núñez Valadez
Home country
Mexico
Master's Programme
I’m in my second year of the Master’s in Sea & Society, a programme I truly value for its interdisciplinary approach and the way it encourages me to explore ocean sustainability from multiple perspectives. My classmates come from all over the world, and our discussions spark fresh insights into the challenges and opportunities facing our oceans. There’s a genuine sense of community here: we don’t just study together, we support and inspire one another.
Life in Gothenburg is just as inspiring. Each season transforms the city with its own atmosphere, traditions, and small moments worth celebrating, always enjoyed with a cup of fika, of course.
Oh, and a fun fact: Outside of university, I’ve discovered a passion for foraging wild berries and mushrooms, then experimenting in the kitchen with my finds. It’s an excellent way to connect with Swedish nature and cuisine. I’ve also developed a fondness for seaweed crispbread.
Email: gusnuniv@student.gu.se
Shahd Metwally
Home country
Egypt
Master's programme
I’m currently doing my Master’s in Software Engineering and Management here at GU, after also completing my Bachelor’s in the same field. Alongside my studies, I work part-time at Chalmers as a Research Assistant, where I get to explore how large language models (LLMs) can make software tests easier to read.
I’m originally from Egypt, but Sweden has been home for the past 7 years. I spent my high school years in Malmö before moving to Gothenburg about 4 years ago. What I really love about this city is that it has the best of both worlds: a lively city vibe mixed with beautiful nature everywhere.
Fun Fact:I enjoy knitting or reading a good book to rewind after a long day
Email: shahd.h.metwally@gmail.com
Phuong Nguyen Nguyen
Home Country
Vietnam
Master's programme
I’m currently in my second year of the Master’s in Communication in Applied IT department, and I couldn’t be happier about this journey!
Sweden has always been my dream study destination - not for the usual reasons, but because of its unique charm and a bit of that Scandinavian mystery.
Back home, most students choose the “big-name” countries, but I trusted my instincts. And now, after a year here, I can confidently say that Sweden - and especially GU - is the perfect choice. It’s the place where study and life truly find the perfect balance!
My major is absolutely fascinating because it allows me to dive deep into the world of communication, which I’ve always been passionate about. What I love most is that it’s not just theory - we also get hands-on experience! For example, we’ve worked on real projects with companies like Volvo, which really opens doors to future career opportunities ;) Plus, the professors are incredibly supportive—they’re always there when we need them.
Fun Facts: Outside of my studies, I’m also a freelance youtuber! I love creating vlogs and content for those who are curious about choosing GU, exploring our faculty, or simply learning how to enjoy life in Sweden to the fullest.
Email: gusnguphb@student.gu.se
Eugenious Kofie Anglow
Home Country
Ghana
Master's programme
With a background in Environmental Science from my bachelor’s back in Ghana, I decided to level up after working for some time. I am currently in my 2nd year in Environmental Science. Choosing to study in Sweden was one of my best decisions and I’m loving every bit of it.
Fun fact about me: I’m an early bird who enjoys the peaceful mornings before the city wakes up. I like to challenge myself with learning something new every semester, from data analysis to experimenting with Swedish recipes in the kitchen
Email: angloweugenious29@gmail.com
Hadissadat Abolghasemi
Home country
Iran
Master's programme
I’m in my second year of the Master’s in Molecular Biology and about to start my thesis at a biotech company, focusing on strategies for ATMPs (Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products). For me, this is the perfect way to combine my love for science with my interest in business and communication. Studying at the University of Gothenburg has given me the opportunities and support to shape this unique path, and I’m very grateful for that!
As a Persian, I’m still getting used to the Swedish weather, but I love being so close to nature here. Life is simple once you have your BankID. It’s easy to live healthy – with plenty of gyms, fresh food, clean air… and yes, Swedish candies are the best!
Fun fact about me: I love learning languages! I learned English in about two years, and after just one year in Sweden I can already chat in Swedish. I am also a big fan of techno music.
E-mail: gusabolha@student.gu.se
Tanvi Umesh Erram
Home country
India
Master's programme
I am currently in my second year of the Master’s program in Conservation, with a specialization in Built Heritage. This unique field aligns closely with my academic background in Architecture and allows me to further explore my long-standing interest in historical structures, traditional materials, and the stories embedded within them.
Beyond academics, I actively participate in departmental and city-wide extracurricular activities, as I enjoy engaging with people from diverse backgrounds and learning about their cultures and experiences. I also have a passion for exploring new places, trying different cuisines, and taking part in sports activities.
I come from Mumbai, a city that stands in stark contrast to Gothenburg. Yet, over the past year, I have come to deeply appreciate the scenic beauty and the serene yet dynamic atmosphere of Gothenburg. I find it to be a truly student-friendly city that welcomes everyone with warmth.
Fun fact: At the age of 13, I had the opportunity to represent India at the Partille Cup 2012 (Youth Handball Tournament) in Sweden. Little did I imagine then that, 13 years later, I would return to Gothenburg to pursue my Master’s studies in the same city!
E-mail: guserrta@student.gu.se
Tabassum Alam
Home Country
Bangladesh
Master's programme
I am a second-year student in Game Design and Technology at the University of Gothenburg. I was looking for a major that could challenge me while still being fun to study and this program turned out to be the perfect mix.
All my life I lived with my family, but moving to Gothenburg on my own has been such a beautiful experience. On one hand, Sweden’s peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes make every little trip feel refreshing. On the other hand, living in a student apartment keeps me surrounded by friends, fun and new experiences every day. I’m really grateful for everything this program, city and country have given me so far and I’m excited to share my journey with students who are starting their own adventure here in Sweden.
Fun fact : One of my favorite parts of campus life is our game room “Piazza” organized by our program coordinator, Michael. Every Tuesday, we have game nights there where everyone is welcome. I’ve recently developed a soft spot for Wienerbröd (a delicious Swedish pastry you can easily find in grocery stores). Definitely worth trying.
Email: gustabaal@student.gu.se
Saba Zeidi
Home Country
Iran
Master's programmes
I’m a second-year master’s student in Molecular Biology, currently doing my thesis on antimicrobial peptides and AFM imaging of bacteria. Basically, I spend an unreasonable amount of time staring at microbes and their proteins! call me a proud lab nerd.
When I’m not pipetting my way through life, I switch to illustration and design. I used to work as a graphic designer, and I especially love creating science-inspired designs, because who says biology can’t be aesthetic?
Outside the lab, you’ll most likely find me in the kitchen. Honestly, it feels like another lab to me: mixing, testing, and occasionally failing spectacularly… except the experiments are edible. This is also where my love for Fika comes in. For those new to Sweden, Fika isn’t just “a coffee break” it’s a full-blown cultural ritual of coffee, cake, and good company. So basically, it’s the perfect excuse for me to keep baking cakes and call it “cultural adaptation.”
Fun fact about me: I actually prefer the part of the year when it gets dark at 3 pm. The cozier, the better! Apparently, this makes me a rare species among students, but hey! someone must enjoy the darkness.
Email: guszeidisa@student.gu.se
Paula Salgado Monje
Home Country
Spain
Master's programmes
Last year, July 2024, my life changed completely when I got accepted to the Master's programmes in Molecular Biology at the University of Gothenburg. Whenever they ask me why I chose this city, I always say that Gothenburg chose me!
Before that, I had just finished my Biochemistry Bachelor’s Degree in Pamplona, Spain and I had no clue on what my next step in life will be and all of a sudden, this amazing opportunity knocked on my door. As long as months past and got immersed in the courses of university, I confirmed my first intuition that Gothenburg had so much to discover.
I have experienced the best year of my life, with lots of emotions, activities and above all, many people from all over the world. Now, I have friends around the globe and thanks to them, I got a direct approach to so many different cultures and shared many moments that made a huge impact on my pathway.
Currently, I just started my second year of the Master and cannot wait for more adventures to happen. Among them, I am looking forward for this new chapter in the university by being one of the science faculty´s ambassadors. Now that we have the knowledge already as we have been living here for a while, it is the good time to share it and be helpful to all new students
Fun fact about me: When I was sixteen years old, I went abroad alone for the first time to Australia and since then, have returned few other times along these years for which I am very grateful. After stealing both my heart and soul, I always claimed that I would like to live there in the future but last year, Gothenburg and all Swedish culture came into the scene and invaded me so who knows what will happen now? I love travelling so if you need advice regarding this, just come and talk to me.
Email: gussalpaa@student.gu.se