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How did you choose to study abroad at Umeå University? And what do you know about Sweden prior to coming here?

I chose to study at Umeå since I had limited options available for my specific situation, and it came down between Sweden and Japan. I chose Sweden since I actually knew almost nothing about it and thought it would be more fun to go somewhere most people (at least in the U.S.) don't normally hear about. My lack of knowledge is what drove my decision to go somewhere I knew so little about. I also don't mind the winter, and oh boy, is a Swedish winter much different from a winter in Ohio.

What are your fondest memories from your time as a student at Umeå University? 

Jesse West experiencing the Northern Lights in Umeå.

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Seeing the northern lights for the first time was absolutely incredible and just a crazy experience, seeing the intense light movement right above Lake Nydala. I absolutely loved every international pub we went to because I love busting out some moves on a dancefloor. One of my best memories is what I did every week with friends: going to a different bar each night of the week for trivia and karaoke. Another great memory was staying in Sweden after school ended to spend my 21st birthday in Umeå with friends from all around the world for one last fun night out before coming home. I also can't forget volunteering at Valborg and Brännbollsyran to truly experience Swedish celebrations.

What have you being doing to your study abroad semester at Umeå University?

Since my last semester in college was in Umeå, I came home to immediately start my job search. I luckily found a job in marketing and even started something of my own called RateMyTravels.com. While studying abroad in Sweden and traveling across Europe, I realized most travel advice was either really generic or buried in long blogs. To fix this, I created RateMyTravels.com—a site where you can rate your trips, share the exact advice you wish you had before going, and build your own “Travel Resume” to track past trips and travel anniversaries over time.

When planning your next adventure, you can look up any destination to get quick and honest insights from people who’ve actually been there. At the end of the day, it's just travelers helping travelers explore smarter – without the paid reviews.

What does your current role look like?

I’m a marketing associate for one of the biggest plant container companies in the horticulture industry. I manage our tradeshows and events as well as coordinate the development of marketing materials. For fun, I also work at our NFL stadium in Cleveland as field security so I can be right next to the stage during concerts and on the field during other cool events.

What are your career goals for the next 5 years?

It’s really hard to say. I’ve had so many different jobs in various industries and roles. I really enjoy events, entertainment, and travel. If I can find a way to stay in one of those areas and mix marketing into them, I’d be in a great place. I also plan to keep growing my travel website into a go-to resource that travelers check before every trip, helping them travel smarter and safer.

There isn’t bad weather, only bad clothes.

What would you tell someone thinking about studying at Umeå University?

I would absolutely tell you that you’d be making a mistake if you DON’T go. The city is mostly full of students and the university has a huge base of international students, so you’ll make friends fast and easily. Make sure to join the buddy program too for plenty of fun events and to initially meet people. Don’t worry about the winter because as any Swede would say, “there isn’t bad weather, only bad clothes.” I have to admit though, it is worth the kronor for the bus pass for a semester during the winter and when you’re out late having fun.