Don't Expect the Worst - Vol. 2

It’s been 8 months since I moved to Sweden and I’m glad to say that my time here is nowhere as scary and stressful as the first two weeks have been. My transition to living in the Swedish capital was one of the most stressful experiences I had in my life. There is no sugar coating it. During the first month I doubted my decision, worried that I wouldn’t fit in in such a prestigious school, and I was scared I wouldn’t find permanent accommodation.

Luckily with every month that passed I realised that my expectations of the worst were just that - expectations. In reality everything eventually fell into place. The stress, chaos and lack of certainty slowly dissolved into the background. Now, looking back at the autumn semester, I definitely notice how much KTH and living in a Swedish environment has influenced and shaped me as a person. As cheesy as it sounds I am no longer the same person that moved to Sweden back in August. But I must say all the changes I noticed are actually for the better.

First of all throughout the first few months of attending KTH I quickly picked up on the differences in educational environment compared to the previous systems I have been part of. I was shocked to realise that for the first time ever I was not overwhelmed by the workload and extremely stressed over deadlines. I found my pace of work that fit my preference and finally felt a level of balance between study ing and living. I can only speak from my own experience, yet I am convinced that this must be a common occurrence for people coming from non-swedish ed ucational backgrounds. For context before ending up here in Sweden for my master’s I grew up in the strict schooling environment in northern Poland and then transitioned to the fast paced output-based higher educa tion of Northern Ireland. After moving to Stockholm I suddenly found a way not to overwork myself or feel guilty for closing my laptop at 5pm. For the first time since starting my Architectur al education in 2019 I have reclaimed my weekends as not “extra time to do work” but days off. KTH teachers at the Architec ture school that I have had class with all encourage following your own instincts and interests within projects and assignments. Despite an outline of requirements or descriptive briefs, students are allowed to put their own twist and showcase their interpretation of certain statements or read- both KTH and Sweden in general has taught me is “slow and steady wins the race” and the advantage of starting early. This applies to all sorts of paperwork, errands and organisation. An example is signing up for housing queues. When I moved to Sweden I didn’t have any accommodation sorted. If I had started looking for places to stay earlier then I would not be in a situation where I would be staying in a hotel for the first two weeks of uni. Another ex ample is sorting out per sonal numbers and ID. Both these admin tasks require time so it’s not worth waiting and pro crastinating to do. actually healthy?!?!? Big up for you!!!!” I know these concepts are probably not something you are hearing for the first time. Odds are you are already living this

Secondly, Sweden has taught me the value of connections and learning about other people’s journeys. Coming to Stockholm I knew no one. I made it a mission to be open to new friend ships and connections. I dedicated time to organise meetups and weekend activities to nurture new bonds. It was worth it. The friendships that have built over the past 8 months have al lowed me to express myself, be cared for, explore the city and attend events I never imagined I could even enter.

From a TED talk event, to a Nobel Prize conference, from the Stockholm Furniture Fair to the Study In Sweden meetups - putting myself “out there” has really enriched my stay so far. Stockholm has shifted from being a foreign city to a place I feel at home in. It’s now become a place full of memo ries, friends, contacts and comfort. It has given me exposure to a city life where there is always something to see, do or try new things.

Swedish culture has definitely taught me to appreciate the outdoors. Whether it is a short walk around the neighborhood, a hike in the forest or just sitting outside for a coffee break, it has taught me to be grateful and present. Due to the fact that the weather in the winter months is harsh and dark, Swedes have really mastered the art of appreciating the little things. Switching from describing the sunset at 2pm as “depressing” to “cosy” is definitely borderline delusional, but effective. Since moving here I have found myself being much more appreciative of any sliver of sunshine, break in the snow and any temperature over 5 Degrees Celsius.

Finally, a thing that living in Stockholm has taught me is em bracing individuality. Whether it’s star stickers on your suitcase, extravagant outfits or extravert ed personality, there is space for all of it. This might sound like broken record but being yourself and holistically embracing your uniqueness, talents, skills, culture and knowledge is probably the most loving thing you could do for your self and the people around you. Empowering your voice and personality is the best thing that Stockholm reminds me to do. It’s defi nitely the most meaningful out of the changes I have no ticed since moving here.