Click
here to visit Carolyn's blog
Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area in
California, Carolyn is now fulfilling her childhood dream of
one day living in Sweden. Here, she talks about her special
relationship to Sweden and what made her switch from Berkeley to
Umeå Institute of Design.
What brought you to UID and Sweden?
I came to Sweden several times as a child and young teen, and fell in love with the country. I
always knew I wanted to live here at some point! I came to the
Umeå Institute of
Design because of my desire to study Interaction Design. The
school is world-renowned, with excellent professors and
opportunities, and a progressive reputation.
What are your first impression of the school?
My first impression of the school was that it was an incredibly
supportive and inspiring group of students and professors. We are a
diverse class, and the crossroads of all these cultures makes UID
quite a special place. I also was impressed that the school
has excellent resources for their students, and of course a
beautiful campus on the Ume River front!
You seem to have a special relationship to Sweden. How
come?
As mentioned earlier, I grew up
coming to Sweden. As a child I did Scandinavian folk
dancing and fiddling, and during the summer I would travel
here with my parents to the Dalarna Region for midsummer festivals.
I have wonderful memories of the midnight sun! This gave me a long
lasting connection to Sweden.
What would you say to other students considering coming to
Umeå?
Don't hesitate to apply!
Umeå Institute of Design is an incredible place to learn and
grow, no matter your background. The city of Umeå has so much
to offer culturally as well, and nature is always out your back
door when you need it.
As your blog tells us, you have fully immersed yourself
in the nature of Northern Sweden. What's your your favourite moment
so far?
Yes, I have been lucky enough to
get outside and explore what Northern Sweden has to offer! I would
narrow my favorite experiences to hiking on
Marsfjället Mountain and dog sledding in Granö. Both were easy
day trips from Umeå, which is one of the wonderful things about the
University's location. There are so many incredible outdoor
activities and national parks
in close proximity, which make weekend adventures possible. This
weekend I even was able to drive to Junkerdal National Park in
Norway!
