- Calling your lecturers by name. A great example of strange habits in Sweden: It might sound strange or funny when you see that you can address your Professor by their first name. “But that is a lack of respect”, an African newbie may say, but that is the culture here. It might take some time to adapt to but you sure will after a few weeks of discovering you are the only person left saying “sir”, or “ma’am” in your class, LOL.
- Having long hours to write exams (4-5 hours). Oh yes! This is probably the most interesting part for a student coming to study here from an African country where you have a range of 2-3 hours for each exam. Most of the times you have to be careful about your answers given the time constraint and food or drinks may be completely prohibited. Well, here in Sweden, you are allowed to take some snacks, drinks, coffee or tea to the exam hall. Exams are typically 4 or more hours long. So you can sit, relax, and think of proper responses. You can also take as many breaks as you need without being escorted. Swedish exams are pretty relaxing.
- Numbering years in weeks. How about being told that you have an appointment in week 35 instead of August 29? A typical African would be puzzled at first. “Excuse me, did you just say week 35?I don’t even know what week we are in right now, lol, funny but true. Don’t be surprised when you hear that. You can easily bookmark this link on your mobile and check in case you are lost or confused.
- Knowing the temperature of your country. This might sound strange to you at first. Swedes like to talk about the weather, so don’t be surprised when asked “What is the temperature of your country?” I was totally thrown off when I was first asked this question and I said, “It is either hot or cold” LOL!!! As Africans, we often take weather readings for granted, so to save your face, download any weather app on your phone and add your country so that when you are asked, it will be just a click away.
- Knowing the appropriate distance to describe places. Oh, this is probably the weirdest. How well can you use distances to describe a place? Hmm, when you ask a Swede to describe a place, they might say, “Oh, it’s just 500 meters away”, Huh? What does that even mean? Is there no landmark like a greenhouse or a black gate that I can use to locate the place? Very funny but true. You might find this confusing at first but you will adjust. Besides, Google Maps is sure ready any time to lead you to your destination.
4 responses to “5 strange habits in Sweden”
I relate so much,I remember another culture shock was people being on time for everything not that Africans aren’t but we are usually excused for being late even up to an hour late without a reason.
Lol, we are used to the “African time” syndrome and so a bit difficult to adjust. I understand dear.
I totally relate Wemmi.it took me some getting used to # culture shock is real
Very real my dear…Infact, am still getting used to it…