Hi, my name is Athena Melville. I am a rising third-year student double-majoring in Anthropology and the History of Art and Visual Cultures, with a concentration in Culture, Heritage, and Museums. Through UCEAP, I studied abroad in Sweden at Lund University during the spring semester of 2025.
From the moment I first learned about studying abroad, I knew it was something I wanted to do. As an Autistic, first-generation, low-income student of color, I wasn’t sure where to begin or how to achieve that goal, but I was determined to make it happen. In speaking with the Global Learning Team, I learned I could receive the same or similar disability accommodations abroad as I do at UCSC. I also discovered that I could use my financial aid to help cover the costs of studying abroad, and that there were many scholarships available. I received the Gilman Scholarship and the UCEAP Global Scholarship, which helped me tremendously–without them, I likely wouldn’t have been able to afford to study abroad.
My time in Sweden felt like a dream come true. I visited the coasts of Skåne and Halland, explored Gamla Uppsala and Dalarna, and celebrated Midsummer in Dalarna, attended a ball, participated in a tandem bike race from Gothenburg to Lund, and even took part in a Spex. These were all experiences I had dreamed about for a long time. That being said, I still faced significant challenges.
Before studying abroad, I had never lived alone. Living by myself in Sweden, a country where I didn’t know anyone and didn’t speak any Swedish, was intimidating at first, especially as a person with autism. From navigating public transportation to managing daily life without the immediate support of my family and friends, I learned how to trust my judgment and to confidently make decisions. Living in Sweden taught me how to adapt, problem-solve, and advocate for myself in unfamiliar situations. Most of all, I discovered I’m capable of being independent.
Studying abroad taught me so much about myself. I found out how resilient I am, how much I enjoy experiential learning, and how navigating unfamiliar situations builds my confidence. It also ignited a deep yearning to explore more of the world and to keep pushing myself outside of my comfort zone.
I’m incredibly grateful for the financial support I received, which made it possible for me to have these experiences and create memories I’ll carry with me for life. Sweden left a lasting impact on me, and I hope that I can return to Lund for graduate school in the future.