Robin Gerum '10

Oct 24, 2009 - UNHWildcats.com
MEN’S SOCCER PLAYS STONY BROOK TO 1-1 TIE; CLINCHES SHARE OF AMERICA EAST TITLE

“With the tie, the Wildcats clinch a share of the America East regular-season title for just second time in program history, the first since 1994, when they shared the title with Boston University. In addition to the title, the win also ensures the ‘Cats the No. 1 seed in the upcoming conference tournament…The Wildcats return to action on Wednesday, Oct. 28 when they play host to the Binghamton Bearcats, at 2:30 p.m. at Lewis Fields.”

I grew up in Kullavik, Sweden and was enrolled nearby at The University of Gothenburg. Gothenburg, or Göteborg in Swedish, is Sweden's second largest city with a population of half a million inhabitants. The University of Gothenburg has approximately 50,000 students. I wanted to attend a smaller school where I could immerse myself in the American culture, learn better English skills and continue to play soccer at the collegiate level.

Why did you choose the Whittemore School?

I was enrolled in the School of Business, Economics and Law at Göteborg University. In my sophomore year, I decided to expand my world experiences by becoming an international exchange student. My soccer coach knew the Whittemore School had a strong finance program and recommended I look into UNH. The Whittemore School of Business and Economics meets all my personal goals. I'm gaining a valuable business degree in finance, perfecting my English skills, and pursuing my athletic sport of choice.

How did growing up where you did influence your decision?

I graduated in the top of my high school class and was awarded entrance to college. In 2008, I won an academic award for an essay on sustainable development from a financial institution (the essay competition was for students at Göteborg University but recognized by Danske Bank, a Danish bank operating in northern Europe). It seemed the perfect fit to study at UNH - a school that is nationally recognized as a Sustainable Learning Community.

How are your experiences at UNH meeting your expectations?

Last fall was my first semester living as an international student in a new country. At first, the English language was difficult to learn which made it hard to understand the information being taught in my classes. I have a great roommate, though, who helped me to decipher my class notes. I found the educational system here at UNH is different than in Sweden. Curricula here lay a foundation of basic knowledge, then build on tackling difficult concepts. This made understanding course concepts much easier to master. My UNH soccer team and new friends have helped me to make this a great experience.

Are there ways you see that a UNH education is particularly important in the region where you grew up?

The English language is viewed around the globe as a communication asset for the business world. My education here at UNH will give me an advantage over many of my peers. The experience of studying here at UNH as an international student will set me apart in terms of future opportunities when graduation approaches.

Finally, how do you see your time at UNH helping you in your career? What are your plans for the future?

My study at the Whittemore School will definitely place my resume at a higher achievement level than other undergraduate degree candidates. At the moment, all my options are still open. After receiving my undergraduate degree at UNH, I plan to get some work experience first and I may stay here in the United States to continue onto graduate school.

More on Robin's accomplishments:   

WSBE Academic Excellence, highest honors
America East Conference Academic Honor Roll
UNH Men's Soccer Varsity Team