I am extremely happy that I chose STS

Eliza from the Netherlands was on exchange in Sweden.

Why did you go on exchange?

I wanted an experience of my own, away from all the things I considered normal at home. I wanted to learn about new things and cultures.

What was it like to live with a host family?

My host family was amazing, we clicked from the beginning, and they took me out on so many adventures.

Was it hard or easy to make new friends?

Making friends was easy, it takes a little longer to get the Swedish people to open up, but once they do, they are the nicest people you’ll ever meet.

What did you learn during your time abroad?

I also learned how to speak Swedish and I learned about the Swedish and Sami cultures. The main things I learned were how to become more independent and confident.

What was the best thing about your exchange?

I would say that the best thing about my exchange year was getting to know so many other exchange students during the weekend activities that STS organized. I met people for two days and they felt like my best friends.

Your best memory?

My best memory is when an ex-exchange student my host family hosted, and her family came to visit during easter break. We spent a night at one of my host family’s cabins and went on a small trip to Norway.

Can you recommend going on an exchange?

Yes! It’s a great way to become more independent, learn about different people and cultures, learn a new language, and see the world in a different light than you’re used to at home.

Can you recommend going to Sweden?

Yes. I would recommend anyone who wants to learn a new language, and culture and likes a bit of cold weather to go. The long winters can be quite challenging, but all the snow activities we did during the weekends and the northern lights kept me motivated and happy.

Why did you choose to go with STS?

I chose STS because I got a good feeling when talking to them. They explained things very well, were very open to informing me about the exchange year and helped me through the application process. They were always quick to solve any problems that occurred and made my exchange go very smoothly. I am extremely happy that I chose STS.

What are your plans for the future?

I now consider studying abroad at a university, maybe in Sweden. My exchange year has affected my future a lot, before my exchange I would never have considered studying abroad at a university, but my exchange year gave me the confidence to do this.

Any tips for future exchange students?

1. Start speaking the language as soon as possible. It’s so much fun and is way easier to learn while speaking!
2. Take every chance you get to try new things. Choose a subject at school you wouldn’t be able to choose at home, join a club, try new sports and activities. You only have this chance once in your life.
3. A food tip: eat as much ”köttbullar med lingonsylt” (meatballs with jam) as you can!