Discovering new dimensions of Fashion Management

What made you choose to the University of Borås for your exchange semester?

“I really wanted to experience a difference, and I knew it was going to be a big contrast to London College of Fashion. I had never been to Sweden before, and I didn’t know much about the country before arriving. I wanted to experience a new culture and a different language, especially since English isn’t the first language here.”

How does studying Fashion Management here compare with your experience at home?

“It’s quite different. Here, it is more focused on textiles overall, with stronger scientific and technological aspects, which differ from what I study at home. While London College of Fashion focuses more on fashion in terms of runway and style, I feel that here the emphasis is more on textiles and practical, everyday wear.

“There’s also a greater focus on group work where you interact with other students as a team. This is something I’ve never done before and think it’s been very valuable for my professional development.”

How would you describe the Swedish School of Textiles to someone who has never been here before?

“One of the most noticeable things about the Swedish School of Textiles is how strongly it functions as a research institute while also being a university. There’s a huge focus on fashion and sustainability, and you do feel inspired here. This place is amazing, there are so many amazing students, passion and creativity.

I’m also really impressed by all the knitting and weaving labs – they’re incredible. Seeing all the machines has given me a much greater appreciation for textiles and textile innovation.”

Which course has been your favourite, and why?

“I’d probably say Textile Product Development. I really enjoyed the workshops, and I found it very interesting to develop skills I’d never used before for creating an actual textile product. It pushed me out of my comfort zone, as you had to exercise your creative skills.

Another course I enjoyed was Textile Production, as it helped me develop new skills while also building on the knowledge I brought with me from home.”

How was it to move from busy London to life in a smaller city like Borås?

“To be honest, although it’s so different, I didn’t find it that difficult because of my group of friends. You make new friends very quickly and really get to experience student life and a sense of community, especially when living on campus with your friends nearby. In London, you must commute and your friends live all over the city.

Borås really has its own charm with beautiful surroundings. It’s also close to Gothenburg and easy to travel by public transport if you want more of big-city atmosphere and to go out on the weekends. It wasn’t such a hard adjustment, I found it fine.”

How have you spent your time outside of your studies during your exchange?

“I’ve spent time visiting cafés, going to the sauna by the lake, and hiking. I also signed up for a gym, which helped me build a routine.

I’ve done a lot of travelling too, including weekend trips around Sweden and going out in Gothenburg - I love Gothenburg! I also visited Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen. I even went to Lapland, which was one of the best trips I’ve ever taken.”

Looking back, what has been the highlight of your experience studying here?

“One of the biggest highlights was definitely the Lapland trip. All exchange students have a similar mindset where everyone’s rather outgoing and wants to make friends – so you build relationships very quickly. Sharing that experience together made it even more special.

And of course, all the cinnamon buns, the sweets, and Swedish fika!

Before going here, I heard that Swedes can be quite reserved, but everyone I’ve met has been incredibly warm and friendly, which has had a very positive impact on my experience. One of the most fun nights was going out in Gothenburg with my Swedish friends.”

Text: Gustav Kibe
Photo: Private