To internationalize the campus and foster relationships with institutions worldwide, Sonoma State welcomed 16 Swedish students from Stockholm University this summer as part of SSU’s Study Away program.
"This was a trip I will remember for the rest of my life," said Sofie Hellmer, master’s student and president of the Criminology Student Council (KRÄM) at Stockholm University. "The Sonoma State student ambassadors did a great job of making us all feel welcome. It felt like we were one big group of friends from the start,"
The exchange students stayed on the SSU campus June 13-20. Bryan Burton, associate professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies at SSU, collaborated with KRÄM to organize a series of events for social, cultural, and intellectual exchange between students from both countries.
In the summer of 2023, KRÄM hosted Sonoma State criminal justice (CCJS) students in Sweden. SSU Student Ambassador Nehemias Gramajo said the Stockholm students expressed concern about coming to America because of high rates of gun violence and increased political unrest throughout the country.
"We told them it would give them a better understanding of the difference in politics and the criminal justice systems of Sweden and America, and that we would make sure to support them in any way," Gramajo said.
Burton said he was pleased with the Swedish Exchange Program's outcome this year, and hopes it will increase students' global perspectives and support awareness of the Study Away program. With numerous financial support options available, he expects more students will participate.
Financial aid “is essential for those who may face constraints preventing them from participating in our study abroad programs," he said.
Many Stockholm students commented on the new friendships they made through the summer program, appreciated the "California way of life," and were surprised how amiable people were.
"It was interesting how friendly strangers were. Someone voluntarily held the door open for me at the baseball game with a welcoming smile," Helmer said.
- Krista Sherer, Strategic Communications Writer