Alumnus in focus: Kristian Thorén

ALUMNUS IN FOCUS: KRISTIAN THORÉN

Name: Kristian Thorén

Exam: Teacher's Degree Compulsory School's Secondary School and Upper Secondary School and Philosophy of Literature, 2009

Age: 35

What did you choose Karlstad University?

Lots of emotional reasons. The newly-built library was among the most beautiful I saw, as was the internal décor: Lars Lerin's magical landscape paintings greatly appealed to my twenty-year-old self. Then I decided. Otherwise, it would have been Linköping.

How did you select your programme?

I had lived for a year in the United States and saw that the school is a blessing and provides opportunities for all, regardless of their origin. My passion for teaching was born there.

How was the study time?

I met another student at the university and we started a family. That's the best thing I've ever done. The studies became more structured and my desire and curiosity became stronger. My study time was more focused than that of many other students, but I did not miss the party and the tenth test.

Is there anything special that sticks in your memory?

Course Starts. I remember most course starts as a lovely, eager expectation of what was to come. It may sound dull, but I thought it was exciting to learn.

What are you working with today, ie what is your employment?

Today I run a small brewery in Värmland and combine it with a small service as a student counselor at a municipal school. It's a good combination of freedom, creativity and financial security.

How did your studies prepare you for your career / job?

I became a lot safer in my role as a teacher, but I also experienced study time as a good way into adulthood. I also came to teach business economics after my studies and it laid the foundation for my entrepreneurship.

We encourage alumni to collaborate with Kau in various forms, such as being a mentor, guest lecturer, offering student internship, etc. What do you think about it?

It is always useful to draw lessons from the experiences of others, on the large scale - as in historical consciousness - or the small, as in discussions around a table with others.

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