What Antoinette says about the programme

How did you find out about Lund University?

I first found out about Lund University on the “UniversityAdmission” website when I was preparing my application for the Swedish Institute Scholarship for Global Professional. I later decided to make research on the University's ranking and the courses offered to make a decision. I realized that Lund University is ranked among the first top 100 universities in the World and that's how I finally choose the university.

Why did you choose the Master programme in Strategic Communication?

I choose the Master Program in Strategic Communication because I am passionate about working with women and girls especially advocating for their rights. As a journalist and a student of communication, I have always wished to become a communication specialist/strategist who will use communication to positively influence the way society sees women.  I believe that studying the course Strategic Communication will help sharpen my skills and style of engaging policymakers and other relevant stakeholders at both Organizational and National levels in dealing with the different issues that affect women on a daily basis. My experience working and volunteering with different women’s rights organizations that have struggled to communicate their goals for women’s empowerment in a patriarchal society and obtaining an undergraduate degree in Mass Communication also set me on the path to seek for specialization in the field of Strategic Communication.

What is the biggest difference compared to studying a Bachelor’s programme? 

The biggest difference is that as a student in a Master’s Program, you get to meet students from diverse professional backgrounds who have different perspectives on discussions based on the context of their previous studies or work experience. In a Master’s Program, you will also have the opportunity to deep-dive into specialized knowledge fields.

What is it like to live in Sweden and what have you learned from it so far?

  Migrating to a new Country whether for school or a job can be a bit challenging sometimes especially having to cope with culture shock and other standards of the new environment but my experience living and studying in Sweden as an international student has been amazing so far. Even though it took me some time to get adjusted to my new home, (which is normal) I can safely say that the decision of moving to Sweden for studies was worth it. As a student in Sweden, you live free and happy without any form of intimidation. The people are willing to help with information and all you need to do is ask. I have made some really good friends both in school and at my student accommodation and we have all tried to make our journey to Sweden an exciting experience amidst these unprecedented times. Spending time in the Library at Campus Helsingborg; taking a walk through the beautiful green environment and having dinner with friends in Lund are things I have come to love since moving over. I have learned how important it is to network and build a good support system with your friends especially during this CoVid period that has changed everything about our social interactions.            

What are you planning to do after your studies?

Upon completing my studies, I look forward to working with the UN or other International and National companies/Organizations as a Communication Strategist, Public Affairs, or Brand Manager. I will also continue my advocacy for the empowerment of women and girls in my country (Liberia).