How to get a fantastic start to your student life

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Chalmers' student union president, Isabelle Jarl, and Chalmers' vice president for education and lifelong learning, Jörgen Blennow.
Chalmers' student union president, Isabelle Jarl, and Chalmers' vice president for education and lifelong learning, Jörgen Blennow.

Regardless of what education you choose at Chalmers, you will gain a problem-solving mindset that will be valuable in your future career. Chalmers' new student union president, Isabelle Jarl, and Chalmers' vice president for education and lifelong learning, Jörgen Blennow, agree on this.

“Study what truly interests you. Dare to challenge yourself both in your studies and in student life" says Jörgen Blennow.

As the student union president, Isabelle Jarl aims to ensure that all students feel safe, and that Chalmers feels like a second home. She wants you to feel that you receive a solid education during your study period, have opportunities for personal growth, and can build a network of valuable contacts.

No career path is straight
For her, the path to Chalmers was not straightforward.

"It was pure coincidence that I ended up at Chalmers. I had decided to become a veterinarian," she says.

But life took a different turn, and after working for a couple of years after high school, she decided to pursue her interest in entrepreneurship. When Isabelle discovered Chalmers, the application period was closed, so she chose to start studying in Trollhättan. After a year, she was able to transfer to Chalmers and began studying the bachelor’s in Industrial management and production engineering. She then chose to pursue a master's degree in Entrepreneurship and business design, and now, after completing her studies, she has chosen to be a part of the student unions’ management team.

"I didn't feel finished with Chalmers yet. Now, I want to give back so that all other students can experience what I have experienced," she says.

Chalmers' vice president, Jörgen Blennow, also has an education from Chalmers, but he didn't get into his desired programme at first. However, he knew what he wanted to study and that it’s all about seeing opportunities.

"If you are passionate about what you want to do, most things will fall into place. No career path is straight; it's about recognizing opportunities and daring to challenge yourself to try,' he says."

An unique student union

Chalmers' student union offers something unique – as a student, you can influence your entire education. The students' voices are heard everywhere, from course level to management level. In the student union, you also have the chance to engage in different associations and pursue your interests, whether you are interested in singing, parties, or sports.

"Regardless of how much you choose to get involved, make the most of your student life and study time. It will be a fantastic part of your life. Just by studying together with others, you will make lifelong friends," says Isabelle.

Additionally, as a student, you can receive support from the student union if you need someone to talk to. There is a student representative in each section that you can turn to, and the student union collaborates with the university, so you can also seek support from a counselor or an academic advisor.

"A fantastic period in life awaits you now, a time that is hard to imagine but must be experienced. Take your studies seriously, learn how to study, but do not forget to have fun" says Jörgen.

Author

Johanna Fasth