Tor works at the Ministry of Education and Research

Interview from 2021

Where are you working now and what is your current position? On a typical day (or week) in this position, what do you do?

I work at the Division for Schools at the Ministry of Education and Research. My division is responsible for issues concerning for instance pre-school, primary-, and lower secondary school. My responsibilities include the Swedish National Agency for Education and the European School where I represent Sweden on the board. A typical day for me evolves around making sure the contacts and dialogue between the agency and the ministry works appropriately. The ministry is responsible for the steering of the agency through for instance an annual regulatory letter. One of my tasks is to write this letter and the coming year have a dialogue with the agency and to follow up the agency’s work. The work I have related to the European School is often focused on the board meetings that takes place twice a year. During the meetings the board discuss, negotiates and decides on different pedagogical, financial and administrative issues.

What was your first job after graduation?

I started off working at the EU-division at the Ministry and Justice. My tasks involved preparing the Swedish weekly participation in the Committee of the Permanent Representatives (Coreper II) and planning of the Ministers’ international travels.

To what extent is what you learned during your studies in Political Science at Uppsala University applicable in your current job?

In my experience, studies at the Master’s Programme build a good ground for work at an agency and ministry. I also believe the employer has good experience of graduates from Uppsala University. Worth to note is that work or internship at a Swedish ministry requires a Swedish citizenship.

Why did you choose the Master’s Programme in Political Science at Uppsala University?

I was really satisfied with my undergraduate studies at Uppsala University and I had only heard good things about the master’s programme. I also hoped that a degree from Uppsala University would help me in my career.

What is your best memory from your time at Uppsala University?

I had a great time during my studies and met many new friends from around the world. My best memories are from all the fantastic moments we had together!

What advice would you give to current and future students of Political Science?

The studies require a lot and you might also need to put some time aside for other engagements to boost your CV. So take the opportunity to have some fun as well! Uppsala offers a lot of social activities and as many students are new in town it’s easy to find friends to do things together with.