Exploring Borås: Embracing nature and community
What made you decide to study at the University of Borås for your exchange semester?
“The University of Borås has an attractive IT programme, which was a big reason for me to choose it. I have always wanted to live in Sweden – I love the nature here and have always liked Scandinavia because of that.
Another factor was that some of my classmates also wanted to apply here, so it felt like a great choice socially. I was also excited about joining trips to Norway and Lapland. It’s a fantastic opportunity and I couldn’t pass it up.
The outdoors has been even better than I could imagine. Borås is surrounded by forests and trails and if you like hiking, like I do, it’s really easy to go on a hike here. Sweden’s Allemansrätten (eds. note: the right to public access) makes the natural surroundings much more accessible. In Germany, it’s rather restricted, but here, you have a lot more mountains and the forest is denser.”
How does studying at the University of Borås compare to your experience back home?
“For the courses, you are more independent, and because of that, you link with other people and create a community with classmates. It’s a different approach, but I’ve adapted to it, and I think it’s a great way to learn.”
What do you like to do for fun when you’re not studying?
“I meet up with friends a lot, usually for fika, to play cards, or for some kind of social gathering. Most of the time, I’m with other exchange students. It’s a very diverse group, which makes it really interesting.
We’ve done some great trips together. The other day, we went to Gothenburg, and this weekend, we’re going to Stockholm. Borås itself is not that big of a city, so you can explore it easily. It’s peaceful and people take care of each other and everyone speaks English."
There’s still plenty to do. You can watch a football game, visit cool bars, or even check out the nightclubs. I was surprised to find two quite big clubs here – it’s a lot for such a small town. I guess it’s because of all the students. And the food is great too: one of Sweden’s best pizzerias is located in Borås!”
What do you enjoy most about living in Borås?
“I think, for me, the best is that I live at Simonsland because I am right next to the university. It’s convenient, and I live with people I’ve gotten to know really well. If we want to do something, it’s really easy to gather in an apartment.
Another highlight is the nature. If you love nature, you can leave the city in just a ten-minute walk and be completely surrounded by it. I think that’s really cool.
I’d also recommend some local spots like Café Viskan. It’s directly in a park and has a very cool location. Their breakfast menu is appealing, and the coffee is great. It’s a perfect place for a fika with friends.”
Do you have any tips for students thinking about an exchange in Borås?
“You should definitely think carefully about your accommodation. Find an apartment close to the university. In the first weeks, it’s important to meet people, and you’ll be at the university campus constantly. You don’t want to miss out on anything.
At first, I felt like I wanted alone time, but joining in on activities was the right choice. We had great weather at the beginning and so many activities –pub crawls, social gatherings, and parties. Even in the university building there were gatherings.
One thing I love is that the university lets us access the building even after classes have stopped. My friends and I sometimes book rooms to play cards or watch movies. It’s very generous of them, and it’s a great way to hang out.
Finally, take part in the Erasmus Student Network’s trips. The trips to Norway and Lapland are incredible. It’s not that expensive, and later in life, you might not have the time to do these things. So, take the chance while you can.”
Published: 2024-11-22
Text: Gustav Kibe
Photo Tim: Gustav Kibe
Photo Borås: Johfors Production