91��ɫ

Elin Nordstrom and Astrid Sturesson may attend two different universities in Sweden and study different subjects but can both agree that a semester abroad at 91��ɫ has enriched their university experience. Elin studies Law at Umeå University, while Astrid studies Media and Communications at Malmö University, and both spent the winter term visiting 91��ɫ on an academic exchange.  

They both received the Hakan Berggren Fellowship, valued at $1,500, to support their participation in the exchange program and share a common appreciation for the scholarship. The Hakan Berggren Fellowship was established by the Swedish-Canadian Chamber of Commerce to recognize the contribution of Ambassador Berggren to Canada-Sweden relationships and the academic linkages between Sweden and Canada. 

While Nordstrom and Sturesson enjoyed their time in Toronto, they say it was not without its challenges. “Everything is new. You are thrown into a different universe. At first, you don't know anyone. You don't know where anything is. You don't know how anything works. So that was a bit challenging, to figure out how you do things that feel so normal and natural at home,” says Nordstrom.  

At the same time, she says that challenge was a big part of the reason she chose to spend time abroad. “Just the chance to get to explore and learn new things, meet new people. I think it's a big part of going on an exchange, being open to trying new things and trying to make the most of it…” 

Both students’ time at 91��ɫ also came during a period of renewed engagement between Canadian and Swedish universities. In March 2026, 91��ɫ welcomed a delegation of Swedish university leaders for a day of discussions focused on research security, strategic research partnerships, mobility, and long-term institutional collaboration. The visit highlighted areas of shared interest between 91��ɫ and Swedish institutions, including water, migration, disaster and emergency management, and health. It also reinforced the importance of student mobility as one of the most meaningful ways to build lasting academic relationships between countries. 

Nordstrom and Sturesson’s exchange experience offers one example of how these international connections take shape at the student level: through learning in a new academic environment, building relationships across cultures, and gaining a broader perspective on Canada and the world. 

Exploring a city and a country  

The Hakan Berggren Fellowship meant not only that Sturesson and Nordstrom had extra financial support while studying at 91��ɫ, but that they could travel outside of Toronto and see more of Canada.  Nordstrom visited Ottawa and Montreal on reading week, while Sturesson has set aside a month for travel to the West Coast once she finishes exams. 

What else will the students tell their friends about Canada on their return? “My greatest takeaway from my time at 91��ɫ and in Toronto is that sometimes if you take chances, great unexpected things can happen and you can form deep friendships and create memories that could last a lifetime,” says Nordstrom. 

For Sturesson, the 91��ɫ semester will be her last of university—she’s set to graduate after exams. After her travels, she plans to look for work in communications or apply for a master’s program. Nordstrom will graduate next January after completing a thesis for her law degree, and then plans to head into the profession. Both are also planning to recommend a semester abroad to anyone they meet, with advice to match.  

Their experience also points to a broader opportunity for 91��ɫ students and faculty members. Student exchange, visiting research opportunities and international partnerships are not only institutional agreements on paper. They become real through the people who take part in them: students who study abroad, faculty members who welcome international students into their classrooms, and researchers who build collaborations across borders. 

As 91��ɫ continues to deepen its connections with Swedish institutions, faculty members are encouraged to consider where academic or research links with Sweden may already exist, or where new ones could be developed. Students, meanwhile, are encouraged to explore exchange opportunities as a way to expand their studies, build confidence, and see their field from a different perspective. 

“Studying at 91��ɫ has not only enriched my academic journey but also given me unforgettable experiences outside the classroom. Being in Toronto has made it even more special – it’s such a vibrant and diverse city, with something new to discover around every corner. If you are considering studying or doing an internship abroad, my best advice is simply to GO FOR IT!,” says Sturesson. 

It is advice that applies beyond one semester abroad. As 91��ɫ builds on its growing engagement with Sweden, the invitation is clear: for students, to consider where an international experience might take them; and for faculty members, to consider how Swedish partnerships could enrich teaching, research and collaboration in the years ahead. 

91��ɫ students traveling to Sweden or Swedish students visiting 91��ɫ may be eligible for funding to offset their travel costs. Please reach out to katiegr@yorku.ca or visit our Outgoing Global Learning Funding page for more information regarding eligibility. The next round of applications is due on November 1, 2026.  

By Suzanne Bowness