Sweden
With a history that dates back before the age of the Vikings, Sweden is known for more than just pop music, like ABBA. Sweden is one of Europe’s most prosperous countries, but with most of its population living in urban areas, much of Sweden’s natural beauty remains untouched. The country stretches over 1200 miles north to south and therefore offers an array of views from snow-capped mountains in the north to sandy beaches in the south. Sweden’s dark winter days allow for optimal views of the Northern Lights. However, in the summer the days are long and have earned Sweden the nickname of “The Land of the Midnight Sun.”
Studying abroad in Sweden is an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in a country with a deep-rooted culture. UCF has worked with Jönköping University with semester-long student exchange programs that allowed visitors to pick their own curriculum. Swedish students are serious about education, but when they aren’t studying, extracurricular activities such as sporting events, nightlife, and cinema keep them busy. Sweden is a modern country that will please many students looking to study in Europe.
Below you’ll find fun facts, useful phrases, and links to more information about Sweden.
Fun Facts
- Sweden is home to the Volvo which in Latin means “I roll.”
- The zipper was invented in Sweden.
- The Nobel Prize was created by a Swedish scientist, Alfred Nobel, and the awards ceremony is held annually in Stockholm.
- Smörgåsbord is Swedish for “table of sandwiches.”
- IKEA comes from Sweden.
Phrases
Swedish is the official language of Sweden. It is an Indo-European language spoken by 93% of the Swedish population. Here are some Swedish phrases that you might find useful.
- Hello Hej
- Goodbye Hej då
- Thank you Tack
- Excuse Me Ursäkta
- Where is the bathroom? Vart är badrummet?