Hej, tere, and hello!

My name’s Gertrud and I’m an international Master’s student studying Informatics at Linnaeus University, originally from Estonia! 

My academic journey has been quite an adventure across Europe. Before moving to Sweden, I actually lived in the UK, where I completed my first Bachelor’s degree. Afterward, I moved here to study for my second Bachelor’s degree right at Linnaeus University.

During my undergraduate studies in Växjö, I met my husband, who was also a student at the time. We both fell in love with the city, especially how green, serene, and welcoming it is. We got married in 2024 and welcomed our daughter in 2025!

Coming from Estonia, moving to Sweden was a very smooth transition for me. Since our cultures, nature, and mindsets share so many similarities, I did not experience the major culture shock that many international students face or that my husband experienced when he first moved here (SNOW)!

I have always loved to travel and experience new cultures, so settling into life in Växjö feels like the perfect balance of feeling right at home while still enjoying an international environment. When I am not studying or spending time with family, I love going to the gym, sewing, and creating social media content!

Now, returning to Linnaeus University for my MSc in Informatics feels like coming full circle. Pursuing Informatics lets me blend technology, information systems, and design, and managing student life as a mom brings a whole new, exciting dynamic to my everyday routine!

Whether you are curious about studying Informatics, moving abroad with or without culture shock, balancing student life, or what makes Växjö such a special place to live, stay tuned for my upcoming posts.

Take care,

Gertrud