Hej hej!

(Translation/Pronunciation: “hey hey” in one of the friendliest accents you can imagine)

First, the necessary details:

My name is Elisabeth Parroquin–Liz for short–Lisbet for Swedes. I’m a senior psychology major from St. Olaf College in MN, and currently enrolled in the Forensic Psychology course with DIS, along with three other psych courses and an introductory course to Swedish language and culture. I’m also participating in the Outdoor Adventure Living & Learning Community (LLC), based in Sollentuna (about a forty minute commute to classes). So if you’re interested in psych or outdoor adventures in Sweden, I’m your gal!

A little about me:

I love to laugh! (Who doesn’t?) I’m always up for an adventure, outdoor or indoor, and when there is music, I can’t keep my feet still. I found swing dance my freshmen year of college, and especially fell in love with it this past year. Though I prefer to be active when I can, I also enjoy a large mug filled to the brim with a hot drink, snuggled up in a soft blanket, and surrounded by good company. I’m rather independent, but quality friendships are most important to me and my well-being. I’m fortunate enough to say that in the few weeks that I’ve been here, I’ve met some really amazing people that I already consider to be my friends.

Why I chose DIS and what I’m looking forward to:

Sweden hadn’t crossed my mind until I was looking at different programs available through my school. I decided there were a few factors important in making my final decision. First, I wanted to be in Europe. Second, I wanted somewhere with opportunities to swing dance. I wasn’t going to go an entire semester without it! Third, if I wasn’t going to be in a Spanish speaking country, I wanted to be in a place where most people know English. Finally, I wanted a city with access to nature and opportunities to explore the outdoors. The fact that DIS also had psychology courses available was really a bonus on what already seemed to be the perfect place for me.

I’m looking forward to gaining a different perspective on psychology by examining the similarities and differences between the U.S. and Sweden. I’m also excited for the LLC events and all the study tours we will be taking with our classes. One highlight will be when my Forensic Psychology core course goes to Scotland for a week! I can’t wait for all of my adventures, independent of and through DIS, and I hope that sharing my experiences with you helps you to decide if DIS is the right program for you! I’m convinced that it was the right decision for me.

Stay tuned!

-Liz