2007-10-17Hello everybody. I'm Marta from Poland. I have studied marine biology for four years. I've been here, in beautiful Sundsvall, since 25th of August. I came here by car, and when I entered my apartment in Nacksta, the new chapter of my book titled "Real life" began...
Probably as every student I had that feeling that I had to do something with myself. I needed to make a big decision about my future. That is why I decided to take part in Erasmus exchange. I was looking for a country that had not been visited by me before. I am interested in travelling and I love visiting wild and untouched places. That is why Sweden was a perfect choice.
In fact, only part of description of Sweden, given to me in Poland was true. Indeed, I saw breathtaking landscapes, wild forests, reindeers and mooses, but surprisingly for me, not everyone here had blue eyes and blond hair. According to my expectations Swedes are amazingly warm and friendly people and are always at hand to give you a smile. They can also speak English fluently, what helps me a lot to adapt to the new environment.
I really admire Swedish way of living and their connections with nature. Most of people do have some kind of cottage - "stuga" somewhere by the lake, on the island or in the forest. Sometimes you can even find a hut, where you can rest and make a fire.
Those places are always equipped with hearths firewood ready to use. I think such places express Swedes inner need to be close to the nature. You can always feel free to use this hut, but you have to leave it in a condition, that you found it. To me, it was unexpected feeling that, in fact, those places are very tidy and clean. In Poland, even if we had such a places, they would have been probably destroyed.
During my trip to northern Sweden I had an opportunity to explore wildness of changeable scenery of the country. Most amazing were beautiful lakes, overgrowth hills and many places untouched by man. The architecture of smaller and bigger towns, were also taking my breath away, and my digital camera space. Exploring south part of Sweden I had an opportunity to visit Stockholm. To feel the atmosphere of the town and the surroundings I decided to sight see. Walking along harbour, visiting Vasa Museum and Royal Palace was a great enjoyment.
Sundsvall is a special town - not too big and not too small, not too busy and not too sleepy; just perfect! I realised it immediately. Everyone can find interesting activities adequate to him. Moreover, people living with me in Nacksta are like a big, international family. During the first day you just meet other students, and after a while, you become close friends. Finally, last but not least: Mid Sweden University - it was the best choice I have ever made. Educational system is very friendly due to support and guidance from supervisor and professors. Moreover, practical and theoretical presentations from various subjects, are a chance to develop knowledge and gain new abilities.
Being here I have a great opportunity, to experience a completely different culture from the one I had grown. I have not been for a long time, but even so I am adapted and I learn many things, at the same time discovering myself…Although I miss home, I am really glad, that I had taken up this opportunity.
Marta