Inside Scoop on Being an Exchange Student in Sweden

Last week, I had the opportunity to sit down with Queen's Commerce '24 student Simone Grimaldi. She traveled to Stockholm, Sweden, in 2023. Please scroll below for the full interview! If you're interested in doing an exchange in Stockholm, this blog is perfect for you.

1. Where and when did you go on exchange?

I went to Stockholm, Sweden from January-May, 2023.

2. Why did you choose Stockholm as your exchange destination?

I come from a family of Italian immigrants, so growing up I was fortunate enough to travel to different places in Italy to visit relatives. These trips were so memorable, and I got to visit other countries near Italy like France and Spain. When looking at options of exchange, I wanted to choose an experience that was so different than anything I had ever done and I wanted to learn about a completely new culture.

Stockholm was a chance to venture to a part of Europe I had never been to, and embrace a completely different culture from my own. I also was drawn to Stockholm because it is such a big urban city. Growing up in a small Ontario town, and moving to Kingston for University, I have never gotten the chance to live in a big city. Stockholm was a perfect city to experience this in because it was so safe and had so many different areas to explore. Every day I got to wake up and explore a new area of the city!

3. What was your favourite outdoor experience in Scandinavia?

My favourite outdoor experience was, ironically, during my least favourite month of exchange, the first month in January. January is one of the darkest months in Sweden, where it gets dark from 3PM until 9:30AM. As a result, the city is covered with lights so it doesn't get too sad - every street has these glowing twinkly lights and different light structures. The best part was walking around with my friends at night and being able to explore the city even when it was so dark outside, as it was illuminated by the unnatural yet beautiful lighting!

5. Would you recommend this destination for exchange and why?

I would recommend this destination because it is very safe, positive, and so unique. I loved the city, the culture, and the people.

6. What are three tips you would give someone traveling to Sweden for exchange in the Winter?

1. Bring a good winter coat and get a sunlight lamp!

2. Get involved in the school during the semester because it makes it easier to meet people.

3. Go see the northern lights - they aren't that far!