Det Svenska Språket (The Swedish Language)

To my ears, it sounds very melodic, in a sing-song way. Words are pronounced rather softly making it nice to listen to. I would say it has quite some similarities to Dutch, German, English and a very little Russian. I had a great time learning the language in the Swedish Intensive course the university provided before the start of the semester. It felt a bit like a Summer camp. The campus for the first two weeks was completely empty and ours to claim. We used the afternoons to explore our surroundings, organizing trips and gatherings. It was a great way to meet new people and make friends.

By the time the semester kicks off you are able to fit right in. If you have the opportunity to take the Swedish intensive course, I would

highly recommend it. For those really keen on learning the language, a nice family Netflix series would be Bonusfamiljen. Those who listen to daily news, try it in Swedish instead! Radio Sweden På Lätt Svenska (radio Sweden in easy Swedish) is a great radio podcast available on Spotify.

In the Swedish language, it is very common to introduce yourself by your first name regardless of age or situation. This is also the case at university. Teachers introduce and sign off emails with their first name. The way you show a person their respect is not by how you address them but what words and phrases you use during the conversation with them. Just being polite is a form of respect already.

Here are a few basic Swedish sentences to introduce yourself:

Jag hätta Saskia.
My name is Saskia (the g in jag is silent)

Jag är tjugotvå.
I am 22 years old

Jag kommer från Tyskland.
I come from Germany.

Jag taler engelska, tyska, och lite ryska och svenska.
I speak English, German and a little Russian and Swedish

Jag studerar/plugger på Enschedes Universitet.
I study at the University of Twente (plugger is less formal)