Student blogs

Welcome to the vibrant world of Karolinska Institutet, where learning extends beyond classroom walls. At KI, we foster a holistic student experience that combines academic excellence with personal growth and cultural enrichment. Central to this ethos is Medicinska Föreningen, our admired student union. Among its many offerings is the student-led language classes initiative, where students can immerse themselves in languages like Swedish, Spanish, and Greek.

Therefore, in this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating world of language learning at KI, guided by Medicinska Föreningen. We’ll hear from the Vice President of this initiative and the dedicated Greek teacher, who generously shared their insights and experiences. Let’s dive in!

Interview with the vice president

Please tell us about yourself and this student-led initiative,

“My name is Ifani Pinto Nada, I am 28 years old, and I am from Indonesia. Currently, I am enrolled in the Health Informatics master’s program and working as the Vice President of the International Committee as well as the Language@KI Project Manager. This project is organised by the International Committee of Medicinska Föreningen, to promote internationalisation.”

So, what inspired the creation of the student-led language class initiative?

“A major obstacle during the integration of international students is often the lack of possibilities to learn Swedish for everyday communication. Language@KI: a pioneering initiative where exchange and international students receive Swedish lessons from our enthusiastic Swedish-speaking peers in a casual, relaxed manner. This innovative approach offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional language courses, which can be prohibitively expensive. The positive reception from both international and Swedish students underscores its value. This semester, we’re expanding our horizons by introducing classes in additional languages like Greek and Spanish, responding to the growing demand for diverse linguistic experiences during Info-Pub. Join us in embracing a truly global learning journey!”

For prospective students considering joining the language classes, what would you say is the biggest takeaway or benefit they can expect?

“Join Language@KI for an engaging and enjoyable language-learning experience! Our project offers flexible, interactive classes in informal settings, ensuring that learning is never dull or purely theoretical. Explore language and culture simultaneously and connect with the diverse backgrounds of fellow students, expanding your network while honing your language skills. Don’t miss out on this enriching opportunity to learn, grow, and connect!”

Thank you for doing this interview with us and for sharing valuable insights and passion for language learning at KI.

Interview with the Greek teacher

Please tell us about yourself,

“My name is Chrisa, I’m 25 years old and I am from Greece. I am a first-year master’s student in Health Economics, Policy, and Management.”

So Chrisa, what motivated you to start teaching the Greek language?

“Being Greek, my language and heritage are deeply important to me. That’s why I find it so rewarding to share them with others. Greek is a beautiful language, and I love helping people connect with the fascinating history and culture it represents.”

How do you ensure that the language classes are engaging? What teaching methods or activities do you incorporate to make learning fun and effective?

 “I tried to create a welcoming and friendly atmosphere from the start. It’s important to me that everyone participates, so I use activities that get students talking to each other as much as possible like pair work, group discussions or role-playing scenarios.  By practicing real-life situations like ordering food, or having casual conversations, students will become more motivated to practice and truly own the language. Moreover, I constantly ask for feedback from my students. This helps me tailor the lesson to their interests.”

Success stories

Can you share any memorable moments or success stories?

“One of my students recently visited Greece where he successfully used the things we learned in class, like ordering food and having conversations. But the most exciting part is that he returned eager to learn more Greek. It’s a great example of how travel and language learning can work together – each one makes the other more rewarding.”

Finally, for prospective students considering joining the language classes, what would you say is the biggest takeaway or benefit they can expect?

“Beyond just learning to order a delicious souvlaki, the biggest takeaway from my classes is a deeper connection to Greek culture. As you delve into Greek, you’ll start to see the world through a new lens, appreciating the unique way Greeks express themselves and the values embedded in their language.”

Thank you, Chrisa, for sharing your insights and enriching the language-learning experience at KI.

We express our sincere appreciation to Ifani, Chrisa and their team for their outstanding commitment to teaching and instilling a love for language and culture in their students.

Finally, we’re reminded of the incredible opportunities awaiting those who embark on this linguistic journey. From Swedish to Spanish to Greek, these classes not only enhance linguistic proficiency but also foster a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures worldwide. We encourage all students to use this opportunity, connect with peers, and embrace the transformative power of language.