When I first arrived in Sweden to start my master’s in International and European Relations (IER) at Linköping University, I had a mix of excitement, curiosity, and, let’s be honest—mild panic. I had done my research about the program, but nothing quite prepares you for the reality of studying in a new academic environment, surrounded by people from all over the world, each bringing their own perspectives to the table.

Now, almost at the end of the road, I want to share some of the things that have shaped my experience—both expected and completely surprising.

  1. The Learning Curve: From Theory to Real-World Insights

One of the biggest things I love about this program is how theory meets reality. The courses are packed with academic literature, but we don’t just stop at theories—we debate them, challenge them, and apply them to current global events.

For example, in the Politics and Economics of International Relations course, I found myself analyzing trade disputes, geopolitical tensions, and economic policies in a way that felt deeply relevant to today’s world. International and European Law was another eye-opener, before this course, I hadn’t realized just how complex (and sometimes ambiguous) international legal frameworks could be!

What I didn’t expect? The sheer depth of discussions. In every class, we’re encouraged to critically engage, question assumptions, and bring in perspectives from our own countries. It’s not just about memorizing theories—it’s about developing a way of thinking that’s flexible and analytical.

  1. Group Work: A Love-Hate Relationship?

At LiU, group work is everything. I had heard about the Swedish education system’s emphasis on collaboration, but I didn’t realize just how much time I’d be spending discussing, debating, and strategizing with my classmates.

At first, it was a bit of a challenge—working with people who have different academic backgrounds, cultural perspectives, and sometimes wildly different work styles. But over time, I came to appreciate how much it pushes you to adapt, negotiate, and refine your own arguments. Plus, it mirrors real-world international relations—where compromise and teamwork are key.

(That said, coordinating schedules for group meetings? Still a nightmare.)

  1. Brussels: A Field Trip Like No Other

One of the absolute highlights of the program is the study visit to Brussels, where we get a firsthand look at European institutions. I remember walking through the corridors of the European Parliament and realizing just how complex and interconnected EU decision-making really is.

We had the chance to meet policymakers, discuss current EU challenges, and even see diplomacy in action. It was a moment where everything we had learned in lectures suddenly clicked into place—this wasn’t just theory anymore; it was real.

If you’re considering this program, trust me: this trip alone makes it worth it.

  1. Choosing Between More Courses or an Internship

By the third semester, we’re faced with a big decision: continue with specialized courses or gain real-world experience through an internship.

For many students, this is a defining moment. Some go on to intern with international organizations, NGOs, embassies, or policy think tanks—opportunities that often lead to future career paths. Others choose to stay in academia, diving deeper into research areas they’re passionate about.

I personally chose to do an internship with an NGO, which gave me invaluable hands-on experience in the field. But that’s a story for another time.

  1. Thesis: The Final Challenge

The fourth and final semester is all about the master’s thesis—an intense but rewarding milestone. Since we’re already in February, I’ve officially started working on mine, diving deep into research and refining my arguments. It’s both exciting and overwhelming, but having the freedom to explore a topic that aligns with my interests and career goals makes it worthwhile.

One of the great aspects of this program is the opportunity to collaborate with external organizations, which means my thesis could have real-world impact beyond academia. It’s a challenging process, but I’m looking forward to seeing how it all comes together in the next few months.

Final Thoughts: Is This Program for You?

If you’re someone who loves discussing world affairs, enjoys analyzing international policies, and is excited by the idea of debating politics over fika, then this program will be a great fit.

It’s challenging but rewarding, structured yet flexible, and most importantly—it prepares you to think critically and globally.

So, if you’re considering studying International and European Relations at LiU, my advice is: be ready to engage, challenge your own views, and embrace the unexpected.

Who knows? Maybe we’ll meet in a lecture hall soon. 🚀🌍

 

 

Until next time,

Janine, International and European Relations

 

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