Student Handbook

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Cultural Integration #

We believe that a successful study abroad experience involves pushing yourself to discover different ways of thinking and living. Integrating within your new host country is not an easy task, and you’ll encounter many small challenges as you learn new norms and customs. We expect you to embrace these challenges and work through them.

The most effective way of adjusting to a new society is to try things on your own. It’s normal to feel nervous or uncomfortable when trying new things, and your first inclination might be to ask our staff or even your family at home for immediate answers. However, relying on others to solve basic problems will only prolong your discomfort. From your first day in Sweden, you will be encouraged to do things for yourself, pursue the opportunities that surround you, and use the resources provided. Of course, our staff will provide you with information, guidance, and support! Our guiding philosophy, however, is to help students help themselves.

We work hard to provide students with a wide variety of opportunities for social, academic, and professional immersion. It’s up to you to pursue these opportunities. Cultural integration does not happen without effort, persistence, and flexibility.

The Mood Curve #

The process of adjusting to a new culture varies by individual, but many people experience a “mood curve” as they move through the four stages of culture shock: honeymoon, frustration, adaptation, and acceptance. The first few weeks in a new culture are often filled with excitement, followed by a period of adjustment in which you might feel frustrated by how much easier everything is back at home. Within a few more weeks, most people adjust and find new positive aspects to the cultural experience. Being aware of this mood curve and the stages of culture shock can help as you adjust to living and studying in Stockholm.

Swedish Norms & Values #

Culture is the sum of the norms, values, history, traditions, and unwritten rules of a society. It is difficult to fully and completely describe any culture, but below we have noted a few cultural norms and differences that you can expect to encounter in Stockholm. Of course, this is only a small selection based on what former students have found helpful. Your individual experience with (and understanding of) Swedish culture will vary and evolve as you spend more time in Sweden.

Equality #

Equality is highly valued in Swedish culture. You might be surprised to learn that it’s very uncommon to address people by title in Sweden. Instead, the cultural norm is to call everyone by their first name – whether you’re speaking to a friend, professor, your doctor, or even the prime minister! In the same vein, Swedes are generally modest about their achievements and humility is considered an important trait in both social and professional situations.

Respect #

It is considered very important to show respect and consideration for those around you. Remember to say tack, which means both “please” and “thank you,” when ordering something or receiving assistance. It’s also important to remove your shoes when you enter an apartment or home, including your own.

Order #

Order and calm are also highly valued. Many shops and services use ticket dispensers to keep things orderly.

Nature #

Swedish culture has a deep appreciation of nature. This shows up in many different ways, including interest in outdoor activities (rain or shine!) and a general commitment to sustainability.

Self-Reliance #

During your time in Stockholm, you’ll notice the cultural trait of self-reliance. Children contribute to household chores from a very young age. Young adults are used to living independently and working without supervision. This increased autonomy also comes with the responsibility to monitor your own progress, use good judgement, and ask for help when you need it.

In the Classroom #

In the Swedish classroom, the instructor is seen more as a resource than an authority figure. The instructor provides guidance, offers suggestions, and expects feedback and interaction from the class. The Swedish approach to education favors participation, interaction, and group discussions. Our instructors at The Swedish Program have a broad international background and their own individual styles and preferences. If you feel uncertain about an assignment or task, just ask for clarification.

The Swedish Language #

The main language spoken in Sweden is Swedish. Using the local language is an important part of understanding and experiencing the culture, and we strongly encourage you to try using basic Swedish phrases, such as ordering coffee. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes!

Sweden has a very high level of English fluency, so almost everyone you meet in Stockholm will be able to communicate in English. However, expect to use a Swedish-English dictionary or translation app in your day-to-day life. Some translation apps like Google Translate can translate text through your phone’s camera, which is very useful for reading signs, notices, or menus.

If you receive a notification in Swedish, such as a letter, a text message, or a notice posted in your apartment building, translate it. Please do not ignore messages or assume that they are unimportant if they are in Swedish. If you’re unsure, ask a Swedish-speaking friend, neighbor, or staff member for help.

Free Online Resources #

Language Cafés in Stockholm #

See Community Groups & Resources > Language Cafés.

Practical Differences #

Time and Date Formats #

Times are typically written in the 24-hour format (e.g., 18:00 instead of 6:00 PM) in Sweden and throughout Europe. If you are not used to the 24-hour clock, you can get comfortable with it more quickly by setting your phone or computer to this format.

Dates are written from the largest to smallest increment (year-month-day) or from the smallest to largest increment (day-month-year). It is also common to use week numbers to describe dates in Sweden. Each week of the year is sequentially numbered from 1 to 52, with week 1 being the first week of January.

Door Locks #

In many buildings, doors are unlocked by pressing a button on the wall. These buttons look similar to light switches and are typically marked with a key symbol. Simply press the button to unlock the door.

Emergency Exits #

Emergency exits are green rather than red in Sweden and most of Europe. When you see an emergency exit sign on a door or door handle, be cautious – the door might be alarmed, as is the case in The Swedish Program office! Always check whether there is another handle or button without the green symbol.

Electrical Outlets #

Electrical outlets in Sweden require an adapter for electrical appliances purchased in North America. Some appliances also require a voltage transformer or a high-wattage outlet adapter. You can purchase adapters at stores such as Clas Ohlson or Kjell & Company.