October 13, 2024
Some Things to Expect in Your Second Year at LiU/Sweden
Hej hej! đđœ Iâm now in my second year as a Masterâs student in Aeronautical Engineering here at Linköping University (LiU), and let me tell youâitâs been quite the adventure so far! Are you wondering what your second year at LiU will look like? Whether you’re already a student at LiU or planning to study here, the second year brings some unique twists and experiences. So, buckle up and let me walk you through what you can expect during your second year at LiU, from academics to social life and beyond.
More Independence in Studies; If your first year was a whirlwind of getting used to the Swedish academic system, the second year is where you really start flying solo (pun intended đ). Youâll notice a shift towards more independent research, projects, and deeper specialization in your field. For me, this meant taking on complex projects like designing aircraft components and optimizing rocket systemsâitâs intense but so rewarding! Youâll get to work more closely with professors, dive deeper into your thesis, and really get hands-on with the knowledge youâre building.
đĄPro tip: Start thinking about your thesis early! Choose a topic you’re passionate about because itâll be your companion for a good while.
A Tight-Knit Social Circle; Your second year often means a smaller, more familiar group of friends. Youâve survived the orientation parties, navigated the first-year classes, and now youâve found “your people.” Whether itâs your classmates, a sports club, or a study group, this year feels more intimate. Donât worry though, the student life at LiU is still just as vibrant with plenty of activities to joinâso youâll always have options to meet new faces, too!
Balancing Studies and Fun; Letâs talk about balance. Iâve found that the second year is all about mastering the art of balancing work and play. The demands of academics increase, but so do your opportunities to explore everything LiU has to offer outside the classroom. Whether itâs going for a fika with friends at Turbulens (seriously, the best place in Stora Torget!) or taking trips to places like Gamla Linköping or the Airforce Museum, youâll want to make the most of your time here in Linköping. Autumn especially is a magical time to explore all the beautiful parks and cozy cafĂ©s.
đ Pro tip: Keep an eye on campus notice boards for spontaneous events and student activitiesâyou never know when a cool event or party will pop up!
Your Swedish Will Get Better! (I Promise); If youâve been feeling intimidated by the language, donât stressâby the second year, youâll probably find yourself picking up more Swedish than you think. I remember the first time I confidently ordered fika in Swedish, only to realize Iâd accidentally asked for four cinnamon buns instead of one (did I eat them all? Yes, yes I did đ ). Whether itâs through casual conversations or understanding announcements on campus, youâll feel much more confident navigating everyday life. And donât worry, people here are super friendly and will switch to English if needed, but trying out some Swedish always earns you brownie points!
Career Connections and Internships; This is the year where you really start thinking aheadâinternships, career fairs, networking events, and preparing for life after graduation. LiU offers plenty of opportunities to connect with companies through career days and industry partnerships. As an international student, Iâve found these events to be goldmines for making connections, learning about job opportunities in Sweden, and building my professional network.
đŒ Pro tip: Donât miss the different Career Fairs on Campus and make sure your LinkedIn game is strong and that you have your updated CV on standby!
Your second year at LiU will be a blend of intense academics, deeper friendships, and incredible personal growth. Itâs the year where you feel more like a local and less like an outsider. The experiences Iâve hadâfrom designing aircraft in the lab to enjoying fika with friends in cozy autumn settingsâhave shaped not just my academic journey, but my life here in Sweden.
So, whether youâre already at LiU or planning to come here, trust meâyouâre in for an unforgettable ride! đ
Yours, Chelsea.
