"Living and studying abroad really broadens your perspective"

Aizad Noor is studying the international Master's programme in Politics, Security and Crisis. He chose to study for a semester at Sciences Po in Paris through an Erasmus exchange.

Why would you recommend other students to study abroad through Erasmus?

"Living and studying abroad really broadens your perspective and you experience independence in living, studying and social life to a much higher extent."

"Meeting other people, many of whom are also Erasmus students from all around the world, but also native students enhances your worldview. You simply learn a lot from so many different people from so many different backgrounds- and perhaps you, just like me, will make friends for life!"

"Experiencing the education system in a different country also prepares you highly for future educational and career endeavours. I also recommend taking language courses (if applicable) - one learns a language surprisingly fast when living in the country where it is spoken. Travelling in the exchange country is also very enjoyable."

What was the best thing about your studies, the university or country you went to?

"Firstly, I would say that Sciences Po is an excellent school. It combines traditional teaching with practice, with practitioners across the field of political science often taking an active part in your studies. The caliber and quality of the education is also very high and engaging."

"The university is very well equipped with very affordable breakfast, lunch and dinner, and is quite spacious. The student union also arranges many events such as guest lectures, pub nights and running groups."

"About France and Paris, well I would say living there made me a Francophile. The atmosphere is relaxed and laid-back, and one is not as constrained by social norms there as one is here and it is very easy to make conversation with people you do not know. The nightlife is very fun and high-tempo if you want it to be, and there is a vibrant food culture. Travelling within France is very easy and fairly cheap as well. Do watch out for pickpockets and petty crime though, especially in a big city."

Was there anything that was less positive?

"I had some health issues while in France, and it was challenging to navigate the healthcare system over there, as well as insurance rules. Make sure that you read-up on how to do so before your exchange starts."

What experiences or insights from your Erasmus studies do you take with you into the rest of your studies?

"First and foremost, I bring with me the importance of practical elements in the education. Contact with and guidance from professionals contributes a lot to both learning and what you get out of your studies – and this is something that the Swedish Defence University also offers."

"I will also take with me the French language - I intend to build upon my french language skills that I acquired in France through courses in french here in Sweden."

"I will also take with me the breadth of experiences that France has opened up for me by looking into internships at international organizations based in France - and there are a lot of them ! And if my studies offer me a chance to go abroad in the future, I will based on this experience surely take it."

More about Erasmus exchange

About the Master's Programme in Politics, Security and Crisis