For most students, studying abroad means stepping outside their comfort zone. For Janine Tillett, from Belmopan, Belize, it meant travelling halfway across the world to study in one of Europe’s most innovative tech hubs — Stockholm. At just 22, she embarked on a new academic journey at Stockholm University, where she is pursuing a Master’s in Computer Systems and Sciences — a decision that opened both academic and cultural horizons.
What you'll find out by reading Janine's story:
- Janine from Belize is studying for a Master’s in Computer Systems and Sciences at Stockholm University.
- She found the programme through Studyportals, chose Sweden for its world-class education and unique culture, and won a full-tuition scholarship.
- Her story is about courage, preparation, and using the right tools to make an extraordinary goal achievable.
From Belize to Sweden: taking the leap into global education
Growing up in Belize, Janine knew she wanted to go beyond what was familiar. With a passion for computer science and a desire for adventure, she set her sights abroad.
“I wanted to study abroad to gain international experience,” she explains. “I also wanted to pursue higher education and have an adventure somewhere extraordinary.”
For her, Sweden represented both a country known for innovation, equality, and top-quality education. But what made her journey truly unique was how rare it is for students from Belize to study that far north.
“It is extremely rare for Belizeans to ever visit, much less study, in Stockholm,” she says. “I believed it would be quite a rare opportunity.”
“It is extremely rare for Belizeans to ever visit, much less study, in Stockholm.”
Choosing Stockholm University and finding the right fit
Janine’s academic search began online, where she discovered her programme on Studyportals. She credits the platform with helping her narrow down her options and compare universities effectively.
“I found my study programme on Studyportals,” she says. “It assisted in finding the right programme for me and allowed me to narrow down the top programmes I had applied to.”
After reviewing several universities, including Luleå University of Technology and Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands, she chose Stockholm University for its global ranking and the excellence of its Computer Systems and Sciences department.
“The main reason for my final choice was the academics,” Janine explains. “Stockholm University was ranked higher than my other choices.”
“Studyportals helped me find the right programme and narrow down my choices.”
Life and study in Stockholm
Moving from the Caribbean to Scandinavia meant adapting to a completely new climate and culture, but Janine quickly learned to appreciate Sweden’s organisation and efficiency.
Her biggest surprise? Public transport. “We don’t have trains or subways in Belize,” she laughs. “Buses are usually 15 minutes late. Here in Sweden, everything runs quite smoothly.”
“My biggest surprise was the efficiency of the transportation system… everything runs quite smoothly.”
The academic environment at Stockholm University also stood out. Classes encouraged independent thinking, collaboration, and practical projects — skills that directly prepare students for international tech careers.
“I would recommend Stockholm University to anyone,” she says. “It is truly a remarkable experience.”
Overcoming challenges and finding support
Janine’s path wasn’t without obstacles. To qualify for admission, she had to take the TOEFL test, which required travelling across borders because no suitable test centres existed in Belize.
“I had to travel from Belmopan, Belize to Merida, Mexico by bus,” she recalls. “It was the nearest test centre.”
Despite the effort, she describes the test as “quite enjoyable” and encourages others to prepare well in advance.
Financing her studies was another challenge. She solved it through a mix of scholarships and personal commitment.
“I was awarded the Stockholm University Scholarship, so my tuition fees were waived,” she explains. “To finance my stay abroad, I took out a loan for living expenses.”
Her advice for future students is practical: “Always seek out scholarships and be aware of all study costs. Make sure you have the right budget for it.”
“Always seek out scholarships and be aware of all study costs.”
Advice for future international students
Janine knows how overwhelming studying abroad can seem, especially for students from small countries. Her advice is simple: start early and use the right resources.
“Use Studyportals to decide what your viable options are,” she says. “Research the university and the programme thoroughly. Apply in advance before the deadline because mailing may take 2–3 weeks.”
Looking back, she has no regrets — only one thing she would do differently. “I would have applied to the Eindhoven University of Technology as well,” she says. “That would have left me with an option between Sweden and the Netherlands.”
“Be proactive, research early, and don’t be afraid to take the first step.”
A perfect 10
When asked to rate her experience at Stockholm University, Janine doesn’t hesitate. “Ten,” she smiles. “It has been the time of my life.”
Studying in Sweden gave her more than a degree — it gave her confidence, global perspective, and a community of peers from all over the world.
For anyone dreaming of combining technology, adventure, and world-class education, Janine’s story proves that it’s possible.
Explore Master’s degrees in Computer Science and IT on Mastersportal and start your own study abroad journey.
