Student blogs

Moving to a new country and starting university in a completely different academic environment is both thrilling and challenging. As I embarked on my first semester at Karolinska Institutet, I was filled with excitement, curiosity, and, of course, a little nervousness. Adjusting to the new education system, exploring Stockholm, and meeting people from all over the world made this transition a unique and enriching experience. Looking back, I realize how much I have learned, not only academically but also about myself and the world around me.

Academic Life: Adapting to a New System

During my first semester, I didn’t feel overly exhausted since I took three courses in total. My first course covered a wide range of topics including sustainability, systematic reviews, different types of grading systems, meta-analysis, and much more. It was an insightful introduction to the academic framework at KI. My second course focused on the molecular and genetic mechanisms in nutrition sciences. Since my background in biology was somewhat limited, I initially found it a bit challenging. However, the professors were incredibly supportive. The third course revolved around diet, physical activity, and fitness assessment and evaluation, which also included some statistical analysis. The statistics was slightly difficult for me because, during my bachelor’s studies in Turkey, I only had a very superficial introduction to statistics. One of the biggest adjustments I had to make was adapting to the academic system, which is quite different from what I was used to in Turkey. The grading system at KI follows a structure of Fail, Pass, and Pass with Distinction, which took some time to get used to. Additionally, the evaluation methods vary significantly from course to course. Some courses have only a few assignments that contribute to the final grade, while others rely on written exams, presentations, or a combination of both.

Another interesting aspect of studying in KI is that there is no official Christmas break. Unlike in Turkey, where the semester pauses completely, classes at KI continue online during this period. While it was different from what I was used to, it also meant that we had some flexibility in managing our time during the holidays.

A Surprising Realization During Winter Break

One of the most unexpected realizations came when I traveled back to Turkey for the winter break. Until then, I hadn’t fully grasped how much I had started to feel at home in Sweden. It was only when I was back in Turkey that I realized I missed my life in Stockholm; my university, my routine, and, my friends. It was a strange yet heartwarming feeling to recognize that KI and Stockholm had already become such an integral part of my life.

In conclusion, my time at Karolinska Institutet thus far has been transformative. The blend of academic rigor, vibrant student life, and the dynamic city of Stockholm creates an environment ripe for learning and growth. I am grateful for the experiences I’ve had and am eager to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead.