Rikke Gade Gammelgaard (Denmark)

Educational background 

I studied Comparative Literature at the University of Copenhagen, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in July 2012.

Why Literature and Culture?

My decision to study Literature and Culture in Amsterdam actually came about whilst studying in England as part of the Erasmus Exchange Programme. During our classes we kept dealing with cultural-literary texts written by academics from the Netherlands. I can remember being struck by how good the quality of the work was and how up to speed all of these Amsterdam-based researchers seemed to be about the world of literature. Not only was their research focus really good, their style of writing and general insight also really impressed me. After some deliberation, I realised that the UvA was the place to be and subsequently enrolled for the Master’s in Literature and Culture.  
I should also mention that my love of literature started blossoming at the tender age of ten, which was the moment I discovered the joys of Harry Potter!

Has the programme met your expectations?

Yes, I am really enjoying it. Like I’ve said, what impressed me most was the avant-gardist nature of the programme. For example, I recently chose an elective on posthumanism and gender studies in which we discuss new developments and current topics. This contemporary focus differs from my previous degree programme, where the emphasis was much more on the past. Another interesting aspect of the programme is the wide array of literary themes that we deal with on a daily basis, such as landscape, nostalgia, time, change, history, etc.    

What I also find stimulating is the diversity of the participants. Most of my fellow students have very diverse educational backgrounds and come from all over the planet. This mélange of different nationalities – American, Australian, European – gives the programme a distinctly cosmopolitan flavour and makes for stimulating classroom discussions. I also enjoy the unfettered character of the programme, which allows us to write and debate whatever topic interests us most. My current interests lie with posthumanism and postmodernism. 

Favourite writer?

I don’t actually have one. However, I recently wrote an essay on the Japanese-born British novelist Kazuo Ishiguro and cultivated a taste for his prose and melancholic narrative style. It’s the infusion of ethical and moral elements into his writings that I find appealing.  

Any other projects/extracurricular activities?

I live right across from the CREA (the cultural organisation of the University of Amsterdam – ed.) and regularly take part in public debates and group discussions. I also attend the film nights for international students, where we are introduced to subtitled Dutch films. Aside from that, I am currently in the process of learning Dutch, which has some linguistic similarities to Danish. The course itself is very intensive though, and leaves me with little time to do much else.  

What do you think about the UvA/Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a lovely city and oozes a tangible vitality. There is always something happening; something you can take part in. The only aspect I find less endearing is the hustle and bustle and the noise; especially the trams and bicycles, which are ubiquitous.

As far as the UvA is concerned, I am really happy with my choice to study here. The most notable feature of the UvA is its informal character and the accessibility of the lecturers. Although you’re a student, the lecturers – who are very down to earth - treat you as an equal and value your input and opinions. I like the UvA’s style of teaching more than my previous university.  

Plans after graduating?

I have always wanted to become a publisher, or work in a publishing company. I find the prospect of working with different writers, both established and up-and-coming, quite enticing and would love to combine my love of literature with a full-time career.

That said, I have lately also considered an academic career, owing to my inquisitive nature and academic interest in the literary world. I have therefore decided to enrol for the Research Master’s programme, which will give me a better idea of where my interest lie: research or publishing.

Tips for new students?

I guess if I had to give a tip to new students I would tell them to really participate in every facet of the programme. The Master’s in Literature and Culture offers students an almost infinite possibility to meet famous authors, attend guest lectures and symposiums, and take part in other activities. This is an opportunity which incoming students should grasp with both hands.