Meet Pedro: Student at the Master’s Programme in Public Health Science

Hello Pedro! What made you apply to this programme?
“After completing my degree in biomedical sciences, I reflected on the job opportunities. Most of them were in labs, and even though I enjoyed my courses, I knew this wasn’t for me. I was still passionate about health, but also curious about politics, economics, and what affects wellbeing. This programme felt like the perfect way to bring those interests together and to do something meaningful.”

Why did you choose to study in Sweden?
“I’ve always been fascinated by the Nordic countries. They’re known for freedom, quality of life and being some of the happiest places in the world. I found out they offer excellent master’s programmes in public health, and as an EU citizen, I didn’t have to pay tuition fees. When I got my application results, Gothenburg felt like the right choice.”

What’s it like to study here?
“I previously studied in the UK, and the Swedish system is quite different. Here, we only study one or two modules at a time, which makes it easier to focus and learn. In the UK and Portugal, we had up to six subjects at a time, which made exam periods really stressful. That doesn’t happen here, and you can always retake exams.”

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What’s the best and most challenging part of the programme?
“The most challenging part is how multidisciplinary it is – covering everything from epidemiology and biostatistics to ethics, economics, law, and health policy. Even if you have a background in one area, you will still have to learn totally new things. That makes it challenging, but also very exciting and rewarding.”

Is the programme easier or harder than you expected?
“I thought it would be harder in some ways, but it is not an easy programme. Some modules are really demanding, but we usually have one module at a time, which makes it easier.”

What’s the best thing about your teachers?
“I still find it odd to call teachers by their first name, but on the other hand, I feel like we engage more with them. The teachers are approachable and genuinely listen to us. They encourage dialogue and are always open to ideas for improving the courses.”

Will you do any internship?
“Yes, I’ll be doing my internship at UNICEF in Angola – a great opportunity made possible through this programme. I’m really excited about it!”

What’s the student life like?
“It’s great, though it can be a bit chaotic at times. You’re balancing lectures, study sessions, social activities, maybe a part-time job, spending time with friends – and at the end of the day, you still need to do your dishes. It’s a unique time in life though, and definitely worth enjoying.”

Any advice for someone thinking about applying to the programme? 
“If you are interested in public health, and this programme makes sense for you, just come motivated and with an open mind, and everything will be fine!”

What do you wish someone had told you when you were a new student?
“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself and trust in your capacities. When you think you are confused or even lost, you will not be alone.”

What do you want to do in the future? 
“I’m still exploring my options, but I’m leaning towards working as a health economist or consultant. At the same time, I’d love to do fieldwork and connect directly with communities. I haven’t applied for jobs yet, but I’d like to work in Sweden or a Nordic country for a few years.”

TEXT: KARIN ALLANDER | PHOTOS: PRIVATE

Pedro’s tips: Four things all students in Gothenburg should do

1.    Explore the islands in Gothenburg, such as Brännö or Styrsö.
2.    Go to a sauna by a lake.
3.    Watch a hockey game at Scandinavium
4.    Try different pastries like kanelbulle or semla! There are even days dedicated to those.